Can I Wear a Traditional Dirndl if I’m Not German? (2024)

Not too long ago someone posted on theRare Dirndl Facebookpage and asked this question: "Is anyone offended if a non-German wears a dirndl? I shared a link to Rare Dirndl in a fashion group earlier and it brought up the question of "cultural appropriation." So can anyone wear a German dirndl? Is it offensive if you're NOT German? Are there times that it's okay, likeOktoberfest, when ‘everyone's German’???”

My immediate thoughts were that anyone and everyone can wear a dirndl! Anytime! (and not just because I make them haha!) I'm not offended at all. In fact, I think it's kind of cool that people are drawn to the look and feel of traditional clothing.

Can I Wear a Traditional Dirndl if I’m Not German? (1)

But it did bring up an interesting conversation about cultural appropriation. As with other cultures, there is a lot of history behind the German dirndl. It dates back to when women wore them as their everyday attire in the rural parts of Bavaria. Its origins are deeply connected to the culture and tradition in this area, so it's understandable why some people would be concerned about cultural appropriation.

So just to be sure that I wasn’t alone in feeling this way, I asked this question in theRare Dirndl Facebook Group.

People brought up a lot of great points such as:

  • If the dirndl is authentic and the event is appropriate then absolutely... you wear that dirndl (appropriate meaning not to outshine the host or hostess).
  • If you were to be invited to attend the festivities that celebrated another culture would you wear their traditional dress? Most likely not unless it was required and you were doing it respectfully.
  • Wearing a dirndl is more for an event within the German community and not likely appropriate for other events.

    Can I Wear a Traditional Dirndl if I’m Not German? (2)

    The general and overall theme of this Facebook conversation was centered around respect. If you are not German, there is no reason you can’t wear a dirndl! Traditional dirndl dresses have this magical effect on people: they can make you feel elegant, confident, and flirty. They are fitted in a way that shapes the body and many styles can also have details that reflect your own personality.

    If you are looking to add a traditional dirndl to your wardrobe, please do! Just wear it with respect. And if you want more information on the proper way to wear a dirndl, check out our blog postHow To Wear A Dirndl.

    Can I Wear a Traditional Dirndl if I’m Not German? (3)

    Traditional and regionally specific tracht tends to hold a lot more meaning than your average dirndl dresses and so those who are from that region are much more protective of those garments. But who are they to judge where you are from if you’re wearing it?

    For example, I’m of Donauschwaben descent… and if I see someone who I know is not a Danube Swabian wearing a tracht, do I get mad? No. If they are doing something super stupid to the point where they are embarrassing the culture while wearing the tracht, that’s different.It really is all about respect.When you are wearing a dirndl or a traditional cultural dress, you are representing those who came before you (see theDeeper Meaning Behind Wearing a Dirndlfor my full article on this topic and its history).

    Can I Wear a Traditional Dirndl if I’m Not German? (4)

    So when is wearing a dirndl NOT OK? When it is done without taste.Any dirndl that is so short it requires bloomers just to walk: Not OK. A “dirndl” that was purchased at Party City: Not OK. A “dirndl” that comes in a plastic bag labeled “Beer Wench”: Not OK.The minute it becomes a joke, you’ve crossed a line. Though it can be worn as one, a dirndl is not just a costume. Wearing one without respect and understanding of the culture behind it reduces its meaning significantly.

    Can I Wear a Traditional Dirndl if I’m Not German? (5)

    Why is wearing a “Sexy German BeerGirl” costume not OK? #1 - Because it’s not a dirndl and #2 - Because it looks like you’re making fun of us. It’s like you’re insulting the entire population of Germans and German-Americans (especially those from Northern Germany who don’t wear dirndl dresses to begin with).

    It's also disheartening because it implies that a woman are nothing more than objects to be ogled.I know, it’s fun. But think twice before you put it on. That’s all I ask. If you want to wear the costume for Halloween or to role-play in the bedroom… you go you, girl! But don’t show up to a Festival, Folk Festival, Bavarian Blast, or Oktoberfest in that sexy outfit. It’s not only inappropriate, but it will also make people uncomfortable.

    When wearing a dirndl, make sure you are doing it with class and respect. If you aren’t certain if the event calls for one, give whoever is hosting/organizing a call or email to ask what the dress code is. There’s nothing wrong with being curious and wanting to learn more about traditions and culture. And who knows, it could be your favorite thing ever!

    There are so many possibilities when it comes to wearing a dirndl, so go out and explore them. Have fun, dress up, and enjoy the beauty of tradition. Just remember to do it with respect and you’ll be sure to make an impression!

    Can I Wear a Traditional Dirndl if I’m Not German? (6)

    Nowadays, German dirndl dresses come in nearly endless shapes, sizes, and styles… something for everyone! They can cross cultures, be a bridesmaid dress, Bridal dirndl, and even show homage to your favorite sports team.

    But those ridiculous costumes you know the ones I’m talking about… with the pigtails, thigh-high socks, and that stupid teeny tiny dirndl apron attached to the crazy short skirt length - and don't even get me started on the low cut dirndl blouse.

    Those are nothing, but an American-designed outfit (made in China) for Halloween NOT for a fest where people wear actual dirndl dresses.Please leave them in the past. If you're looking for where to buy dirndls in the U.S. check out this blog.

    Wearing a dirndl is an opportunity to be creative and express yourself as a woman, while still looking beautiful, elegant, confident, and flirty! So don't forget: wear it with respect.

    Can I Wear a Traditional Dirndl if I’m Not German? (7)

    So if you're looking to add a unique and rare dirndl (see what I did there?) to your wardrobe, please do! Just wear it with respect. And check out all our blog posts to learn more aboutthe heritage, dirndl style, and how to wear one!

    Again… it’s all about respect. If you are of Italian descent and you are wearing a gorgeous German dirndl to a German club picnic, I am not offended in the slightest (and no one should be…).

    What matters is that you are respecting the culture, not appropriating it. Dressing in a way that celebrates a culture is fun! Wearing a dirndl makes you feel like you belong to something greater than yourself. So the next time you are going to an event and think to yourself, “I’m not German… should I wear this dirndl?” The answer is “Hell Yeah you should!”

    So what do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

    Ever wonder which dirndl style you are?Click here to take our quizand find out now!

    July 25, 2017 — Erika Neumayer

    Tags: authentic dirndl dirndl for Oktoberfest dirndl history German Dirndl German Heritage traditional dirndl

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    Comments

    Sahana Kulur said:

    Very thoughtful words! I second all your words, especially “Why is wearing a “Sexy German Beer Girl” costume not OK? #1 – Because it’s not a dirndl and #2 – Because it looks like you’re making fun of us.” There is always a difference between mocking someone’s culture and embracing it. Thanks for the write up.

    Can I Wear a Traditional Dirndl if I’m Not German? (2024)

    FAQs

    Can I Wear a Traditional Dirndl if I’m Not German? ›

    If you are not German, there is no reason you can't wear a dirndl! Traditional dirndl dresses have this magical effect on people: they can make you feel elegant, confident, and flirty. They are fitted in a way that shapes the body and many styles can also have details that reflect your own personality.

    Can you wear a dirndl if you're not German? ›

    yes, many foreign visitors wear Dirndl and Lederhose, the traditional Bavarian clothing. Some of the strictest and most conservative Bavarians oppose this and think only the real Bavarians should wear Tracht.

    Do you wear a bra with a dirndl? ›

    Always select the right colour bra to wear under your dirndl blouse. It's best to try on the bra underneath your dirndl and blouse to find the perfect bra to go with your outfit.

    What makes a dirndl traditional? ›

    It is traditionally worn by women and girls in Austria, Bavaria (south-eastern Germany), Liechtenstein, Switzerland and Alpine regions of Italy (South Tyrol). A dirndl consists of a close-fitting bodice with a low neckline, a blouse worn under the bodice, a wide high-waisted skirt and an apron.

    Do I have to wear a dirndl to Oktoberfest? ›

    Maybe your simply not feelin' it or maybe you don't have a perfect dirndl or any traditional clothing (yet). Whatever your reason is, there is no Oktoberfest dress code and you do not have to wear traditional bavarian attire! If you're more comfortable, you can wear "regular clothes."

    What is the etiquette for the dirndl? ›

    Put on the Dirndl dress, ensuring that the bodice fits snugly and that the skirt falls just below the knee. Tie the apron around your waist, with the bow on your left side if you are single, on your right if you are married, or in the middle if you are a widow. The bow should be neat and not too large.

    Who can wear a dirndl? ›

    If you are not German, there is no reason you can't wear a dirndl! Traditional dirndl dresses have this magical effect on people: they can make you feel elegant, confident, and flirty. They are fitted in a way that shapes the body and many styles can also have details that reflect your own personality.

    What does dirndl mean in German? ›

    The name Dirndl refers to its wearer — in Bavarian (and other German) dialects “dirndl” simply meant “young woman” (in high German the word changed meaning, “Dirne” in high German means “prostitute”).

    Are dirndls supposed to be tight? ›

    How You Should Wear Your Dirndl. You should wear the bodice tight enough so that there are no creases in fabric, but not too tight – it should look pretty, not make you pass out from lack of oxygen.

    How should I wear my hair with a dirndl? ›

    Many of the most popular Dirndl hairstyles are braided, which also looks great with bob or shoulder-length hair. If you have fine hair, it's best to use a curling iron before braiding to create extra volume. Hair professionals use salt or sugar spray or dry shampoo before styling to give the hair more grip.

    What is a German beer girl called? ›

    Kellner /Kellnerin. German for Beer Maids and Beer Waiters. Staff at Oktoberfest Munich have to be incredibly tough!

    Can you wear a black dirndl? ›

    There is a wide range of dirndl blouses, but most of them are white or ecru (undyed); black blouses are sometimes worn with black dirndls for special occasions.

    Do you need to wear a bra with a dirndl? ›

    The right bra underneath the Dirndl is crucial for the perfect fit and the ideal effect of the traditional dress. Often it is difficult for customers to choose the right Dirndl bra - but if a few tips are taken into account, nothing stands in the way of a combination of sensuality and comfort.

    What not to wear at Oktoberfest? ›

    Do Not Wear This Type of German Dirndl. When it comes to what not to wear to Oktoberfest, the first piece of advice is DON'T WEAR ANYTHING GERMAN-THEMED FROM PARTY CITY OR AMAZON! Not only will you look like a walking billboard for these stores, but you'll also stick out from the true Bavarian fashion.

    What can you not bring to Oktoberfest? ›

    Backpacks and large bags are generally forbidden within the festival area. Leave everything at home that you won't need while partying. It'll be much quicker to get into the Oktoberfest if you don't have a bag or backpack with you.

    What is acceptable to wear in Germany? ›

    Try a relaxed pair of flowy trousers or more structured yet stretchy ponte if you're looking for comfort. A dark pair of slim or skinny jeans, a nice top and a cardigan, with a scarf thrown over the top, will do well in any German city.

    What do German girls wear during Oktoberfest? ›

    Authentic outfits for Oktoberfest in Munich are called Tracht (Tra-oct). Women wear traditional dirndl (DEERN-dul) dresses while men wear leather lederhosen (LAY-der-hozen) shorts.

    Can you wear a dirndl for Halloween? ›

    With that in mind, I've got a bunch of unique, classy and fun ways to wear your traditional dirndl for Halloween that isn't the “St. Pauli Girl." Now, pull out your traditional German dirndls and let's get creative! Just a few DIY in additions to your dirndl dress, and you have a new costume ready for any party!

    What is the difference between lederhosen and dirndl? ›

    Women's wear revolves around the dirndl, a traditional dress with a structured bodice, tightly tied and decoratively embroidered. The lederhosen worn by men are generally made of goat or buckskin and also feature patterning.

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