Dirndl 101: How to Put on a Dirndl

Megan from SCHNITZels & GIGGLES in her dirndl.
Photo courtesy of George Nagata

Never worn a traditional German Dirndl before? No problem, we understand that not everyone wears a dirndl once, maybe twice a week like us... but in all honestly there are a few things you should know. Here is a quick guide to getting dressed and ready for Oktoberfest in your Rare Dirndl!

#1 Undies- Wear a good bra. It doesn’t need to be a push-up bra, but it does need to put the girls in the right place.

#2 Bloomers- If you plan on getting your polka on, bloomers are a wise choice. Not everyone is going to be looking up your skirt, but there are sure to be some wandering eyes and some judging Oma’s should your skirt go a-flyin... better safe than sorry.

#3 Blouse- Whether is the classic off-the-shoulder, full puff-sleeve sweetheart blouse or our newest innovation the blouslette, that is what goes on next. (This step is not to be skipped!!!)

#4 Dirndl- Most Rare Dirndls have a center front zipper, so throw it over your head (or step into it if you’re floor is “nice und putz”) and zip that baby up. Some sucking it in may apply, but better to have a nice tight fit than a loosey-goosey dirndl

#5 Lace Up Front- If your dirndl has a lace up front, you’ll most likely find the corresponding ribbon and/or chain in the pocket (yes... there’s a pocket!) Start by putting the ribbon or chain trough the top to hooks and then crisscross and go down from there and tie it in a bow (or knot if its chain) at the bottom.

#6 Apron- The final touch is the apron (unless your dirndl comes with a belt in which case, just put on the belt). The apron gets tied at the natural waist, covering seam. You can either tie the apron in a bow in the back or bring the ties around the front and tie it in a bow. Put the bow on the left side if you are single and on the right side if you’re married.

#7 Accessorize!- To complete the look add the accessories of your choice 

• Jewelry 
• Tights or Socks
• Purse
• Edelweiss Hair Clip
• Sweater if its chilly
• A sexy man in Lederhosen 
• und natürlich ein Bier Stein! 

So there you have it. The basic guide to getting dressed in your dirndl. Be sure to post pictures of you in your über chic dirndl on Instagram or Facebook using #RareDirndl and stop reading this and go have fun! Girls in dirndls always have more fun!

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