Custom Dirndl: from Start to Finish

Sometimes my clients have ideas in their heads about the ultimate dirndl. I'm just the person to help them with that! I can take ideas, inspirations and color stories and turn them into real life one-of-a-kind pieces. But how does it work? What is involved? Lets start from the beginning using Rachel's Dirndl as an example.

It all started when she asked if I could do a ballerina-inspired dirndl with pastel colors and tulle. She didn't want it to be too poofy or "toddlers and tiaras" but tulle was definitely something she wanted. She liked the idea of using pink and off-white, so I put together a sketch for her that would be a rough draft of what it might look like. Once she approved it, it was off to the fabric store.

Instead of using baby pink, I used blush... a color that is not only very in, but also a more grown-up version of pink. I also picked out a tone-on-tone champagne satin damask fabric that would be a great compliment to the blush color.




She said she wanted a lace up front, but I could tell she was looking for more than that. I wanted to make sure that this piece oozed elegance and
poise like a ballerina, so I found a beautiful pink pearl and pewter beaded trim that I thought would be the perfect accent to the colors and look of the dirndl. Once the fabrics were picked out and approved, I got her measurements and made a pattern in her size and got ready to cut!

After cutting out all the pieces for the dirndl I used left over fabric from the bodice and used the wrong side to make a slight contrasting piping. I make all my own piping, especially for custom pieces because it really brings the whole piece together. Then its time to sew it all up.

Creating volume for the skirt was important for this ballerina piece and so I used white tulle attached to an underskirt as well as a small layer of white and pink at the bottom that would pop out just a tad giving the illusion of a tutu.

Once the volume on the skirt was created I added the bodice, zipper and finished the hem. Now it was time for the handwork. The beading was attached by hand because A.) it wasn't going to fit under the foot of the machine and B.) the final outcome can be much more precise and effortless. The more effort I put into a dirndl, the more effortless it looks. Nothing is worse than a design that looks tortured!

The hooks were added last and then it was time to add the apron and blouse and voila! A completely one-of-a-kind piece just for Rachel!

Do you have an idea in your head? Maybe a custom piece is right for you! Custom pieces are charge by the hours it takes to complete and the cost of the fabrics. Can't wait to see what my next client will request.

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Opening of the Hofbräuhaus Chicago!

The original Hofbräuhaus in Munich has an extensive history dating back to 1589! As one of the most popular tourist attractions in Germany, the current structure that was built in 1897 was the model for the newest Chicagoland attraction... the Hofbäuhaus Chicago-Rosemont!

Front of the Hofbräuhaus Chicago-Rosemont

Last night was the first official opening! It was buzzing with excitement and the beer was flowing. With all the beers brewed on site, the massive amount of seating and the live band, it is sure to be a great success. I met up with a lot of great prominent German/Americans from Chicago as well as many local people who came to experience a taste of Munich for themselves. 

Beer is brewed on site!

I personally am partial to smaller local places, but I must admit... it was a great time and I look forward to going back!

Rare Dirndls making a statement at the Hofbräuhaus Chicago!

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Do You Make Anything for Children?

One of the most common questions I recieve is "do you ever make anything for children?" I don't typically make children's clothing because creating fabulous little things usually comes with an unfabulous price and I can totally understand why a parent would not want to spend $120-$200 on a dirndl that may not fit in... 4 months!

But I have a few things that I love and work perfect for our favorite little ones! The children's fleece is so soft, 100% washable and perfect for a chilly spring day. It is a fun bright blue color with a splash of either pink or red down the front with the adorable edelweiss flowers on the trimming. The best thing about the fleeces are that they have a looser fit so your little cutie patootie can get more wear out of it.

Another fabulous little item I've made is the black edelweiss beret! Designed for a petite head, this little hat is too cute for words. Perfect for a snowy day or a spring day at the park.

Black Edelweiss Beret

There is always the custom option for a Rare Children's dirndl or trachtenshirt, but if your budget doesn't budge too much (like mine) I still have a couple fun items for your favorite little lovelies!

Custom made Trachtenshirts

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Brrrrr! 3 Best Sweater Styles to Compliment Your Dirndl

I have spent many an Oktoberfest shivering and cranky because I was cold. Living in Chicago, I never know what the weather will bring, but I can always be sure that if its anytime between September and May... I'll need to bring a sweater just in case.

But most sweaters don't work well with most dirndls. I've been in the middle of the sweater vs dirndl battle for a long time and I've found the three best sweater styles to compliment your dirndl!


1) Loose, Light Weight and Relaxed Fit: Jersey knit draped style sweater works very well with dirndls. Sweaters like the Thrill Zone Cardigan, from Modcloth.com, work great because they are open in the front which doesn't hide the detailing. Many dirndls, including most Rare dirndl have lots of detail work on the front which is why you love it in the first place! Loose fitting sweaters are also more comfortable when wearing a puff sleeve blouse. Tight sleeves can leave your upper arm bumpy, lumpy, and just plain uncomfortable. That's why I like my loose fit, draped sweater.

2) A Black Cropped Sweater: Cropped sweaters are not always easy to find, so when I see one I grab it! I wear my black cropped sweater most often and it looks very similar to The Dream of the Crop Cardigan (also from Modcloth.com). The skirts on most dirndls and all Rare dirndls start at the natural waist, so the cropped style is a perfect fit because the bodice of the dirndl and this sweater stop at the waist, making it is a simple, classic look. Left unbuttoned allows you to show off the details of your dirndl as well.

3) Big and Bold: Big statement sweaters are typically my last resort, but its a great back up plan. When I wear my dirndls and I know that I'm going to be really chilly, I wear something like the Rare Dirndl Long Sweater. This is a larger sweater that has its own little German details. Sometimes you can't help having to cover up your dirndl... so my opinion is, if you have to cover it, cover it with something just as fabulous!

















The toughest part about wearing sweaters with dirndls is getting a nice fit with the natural waist, not hiding the details of dirndl, or just staying warm! Thats why I love all three styles of sweaters to go with my dirndls. What is your favorite sweater to wear with your dirndls? Feel free to comment below, I'm always looking for more ways to stay warm!


If your looking for not only the perfect sweater, but also the perfect dirndl... take the quiz to find out which dirndl style fits your personality? "What Dirndl Style Are You?"

Ever wonder what dirndl style you are? 
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Special Pre-production Pricing!

I'm going into production on the Last Kiss Vest next week Monday. This vest is black lace over black polyester poplin fabric with adorable edelweiss buttons. It goes great with just about any blouse and any skirt. I wear this vest all the time and its my go to when trying to mix in my regular clothes with my trachten.

Regularly $165, you can get the pre-production price of $99. Place your online order for this vest from now until Monday at 10pm. Keep in mind, this is pre-production... so your vest will be shipped in approximately 6-8 weeks.

This is the perfect time to get a brand new simple black vest that I guarantee you'll get tons of use out of!

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Shop In Studio!

Approximately 1 year ago, plans for the Rare Dirndl Design Studio started to come about. It took a lot of time, creativity and patience... and its still not finished! The bathroom still needs to finished and there are little things here and there to be done to the main space before I can have an official grand opening weekend.

The afternoon shadow in the studio highlighting the address, 5051 N. Lincoln Ave

But that doesn't mean you can come and visit! I'm open by appointment only because Rare Dirndl is still a one woman show. If I need to run to the store, meet with my pattern makers or take a break for lunch, I can't leave the doors open. Also, probably the greatest part of my job is have the flexibility to run out at any time to help a friend, take my grandparents to the doctor & grocery shopping, or take a day to refocus and regroup my scatterbrain.

Inside the studio... still stuff to do 

I'm super excited to announce that Rare Dirndl now has a phone number! You can call anytime to schedule an appointment to come to shop, schedule a fitting, or simply see the space. You can also e-mail erika@erikaneumayer.com

The number is (312) 806-5099.

Its not up on the website because I'm also working on a re-design of my website with designer Greg Bandy

This picture was from July... Its here now!!

I look forward to hearing from you on my new line!

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3 Great German Inspired Christmas Gift Ideas under $100!

Christmas is a wonderful time of year, but finding the perfect gift for those who love all things German might be difficult at times. I've got three great gifts ideas (under $100 from a variety of online stores) for just those people! And you might find something for yourself along the way...

#1. Jewelry- love a little Deutsches bling!

My 1st pick is from German Import House. The Edelweiss 3pc set includes a necklace, earrings and a bracelet and is $39.00. I love this set because it can be worn altogether or one piece at a time. The antique finish gives the pieces a vintage look and would look great with any outfit!

Edelweiss 3pc set

My 2nd pick is from the Schnitzel Shop. The German Flag glass pendant is a fun little gift with Sprechen Sie Deutsch on it. Only $12.00, it's a more casual necklace that would look great with a t-shirt and jeans.

German Flag glass pendant

#2. Leather- Not just about the lederhosen anymore

My 1st pick in this category is a Rare lederhosen bracelet! The Lederhosen Bracelet with Buckle is an adjustable leather cuff style bracelet that goes easily with any outfit. Made from lederhosen, this piece is soft, comfortable and only $20.00. It's the most popular of the lederhosen bracelets and I can see why!

The Lederhosen Bracelet with Buckle

My 2nd pick is the Square Lederhosen Purse. This purse is made from goat skin lederhosen and is a fabulous way to give a nod to your love for Germany with an accessory. At $94.00, this purse has a braided and buckle strap, button closure and functional outside pockets. Measuring approximately 15in x 12in and fully lined, this item is one of my all time favorites.

Square Lederhosen Purse

#3. Beer Stein- Classic gift for the man in your life!

My 1st pick in this category is this Stein depicting the Oktoberfest Clydesdale and Beer Wagon from Northcote Imports. I love this one because it has an antique look to it and trimming on the top includes edelweiss, pretzels and wurst! It holds 0.4 liters of beer and is $79.95.

Oktoberfest Clydesdale and Beer Wagon

My last pick is a different style glass mug from 1001 Beer Steins.com. The Glass Deutschland Beer Stein is $88.99 and features the fabulous colors of the German flag and pewter embossed appliqué depicting the German eagle. It holds 0.4 liters and is a really unique stein for anyone!

Glass Deutschland Beer 

So there you have it... 3 Great German inspired gift ideas and my top 2 picks in each category! Fröhliche Weihnachten everyone!

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