In 2023, Anderson took her love for culinary adventures to the next level with a memorable trip to Oktoberfest. But it wasn't just about the food and drinks—Sunny brought her A-game in the fashion department too! Picture this: amidst the sea of lederhosen and dirndls, Sunny rocked not one, not two, but three Rare Dirndls as her Oktoberfest dress of choice! before we dive into Sunny's exquisite dirndl style...
Well, it's not just a dress; it's a whole vibe, embodying the heart and soul of Bavarian culture. Picture this: a fitted bodice, a flared & pleated skirt, an apron tied around the waist and a cute matching blouse. The dirndl isn't just reserved for special occasions; it's a fashion staple that brings a touch of tradition to everyday life in Bavaria. Worn by folks of all ages, the dirndl is as iconic as the oversized pretzels at Oktoberfest. The menswear attire for Oktoberfest is Lederhosen, the quintessential leather pants worn with a belt or suspenders. While the dirndl and lederhosen are not interchangeable, they are most definitely the most recognizable Oktoberfest outfits.
This unique design isn't just for born-and-raised Bavarians or folks with German heritage, this dress is for anyone who wants to embrace the culture of southern Germany. No matter your race, gender, age, ethnicity or size... you can rock a Dirndl!
For her trip to the iconic capital of Bavarian, Sunny chose three excellent dirndls to wear during her time at Oktoberfest. There was the sleek and chic Little Black Dirndl, the fun and vibrant Harlequin Dirndl, and let's not forget the earthy and elegant Herbology Dirndl. With each day, a fabulous outfit change and, of course, Sunny added her personal flair, turning heads and stealing the spotlight at Oktoberfest. No Halloween costumes here! It was a fashion feast fit for a culinary queen, and Sunny Anderson nailed it with her casual-cool vibe and adventurous spirit.
Sunny Anderson didn't just rock those Rare Dirndls at Oktoberfest; she also used her Instagram platform to showcase a slew of fun moments from her experience at the world's largest and Germany's most famous Volksfest. With each sipe of the post, Sunny celebrated not only the intricate designs and vibrant colors of the dirndl dress but also the rich cultural heritage they represented (complete with a video of good ol' 'Sweet Caroline'). Through stunning photos and video clips, she highlighted the chaos of the festival, other traditional Bavarian attire including some men in lederhosen and the most important part... the giant liter steins (or Maßkrüge)!
Sunny's Instagram post became a virtual gallery, where followers from around the world could immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of Oktoberfest... including good ol' 'Sweet Caroline' and the iconic Riesenrad or Oktoberfest Ferris Wheel. By shining a spotlight on these timeless Oktoberfest outfits, Sunny not only showcased her impeccable style but also fostered an appreciation for cultural diversity and heritage among her diverse audience.
Let's dive into the three dirndl dress styles that Sunny chose for her Oktoberfest adventure.
The Harlequin Dirndl was part of our 2023 Zirkus Collection and is a great party dirndl. It's fun and unique diamond print cotton bodice matches the short rust-colored skirt. It's pulled all together with a iridescent grey chiffon apron.
Sunny wore this dirndl with a V-neck lace blouse, an edelweiss scarf headband, matching jewelry and adorable brown boots.
The Little Black Dirndl is our best-selling dirndl of all time and that is because it is so versatile, wearable and timeless. It is made of all black fabric, with black satin piping around the princess seams, armhole and neckline. The chain lace-up/corset style front brightens up this Oktoberfest outfit along with the touch of edelweiss trimming at the hemline of the apron.
Sunny styled this with a black lace dirndl blouse, check red purse, red scarf headband, an Oktoberfest cult classic... the Wiesn Grupperl (the engraved clothespin that folks clip to their dirndls, vests or shirts) and an adorable Lebkuchenherz pin that says "Sonnenschein" meaning sunshine! I assume she's wearing some type of chic black shoes... or maybe red!
The Herbology Dirndl is the third of the dirndls that Sunny wore to Oktoberfest. This dirndl has a denim bodice with taupe double piping at the princess seams, layers of neckline trimming and a brown skirt. The apron is ivory lace with green and ivory printed linen ties.
This felt like such a fun dirndl choice for a Food Network star such as Sunny. What good is a dish without proper herbs and seasonings?
Sunny is known for her bold and flavorful dishes that often reflect her diverse culinary background and her love for comfort food. Some dishes she's known for include:
These are just a few examples of Sunny Anderson's signature dishes that showcase her bold flavors and creative culinary flair... so it seems only fitting that she has a dirndl inspired by the (all be it imaginary) study of herbs!
In conclusion, Sunny Anderson's culinary adventures, bold fashion choices, and vibrant personality continue to captivate audiences worldwide. From her unforgettable trip to Oktoberfest, where she showcased the beauty of traditional dirndls, to her mouthwatering recipes that celebrate comfort food with a twist, Sunny has solidified her place as a beloved figure in the culinary world. Through her Instagram platform and television appearances, she not only shares her passion for food and fashion but also fosters appreciation for cultural diversity and heritage. Whether she's whipping up a batch of Easy BBQ Ribs or strutting her stuff in a Little Black Dirndl, Sunny Anderson inspires us to embrace life with gusto, savoring every moment and celebrating the flavors and traditions that make our world so rich and diverse. So here's to Sunny, a culinary queen whose zest for life shines through in every dish and every daring fashion statement. Prost to many more delicious adventures ahead!
]]>When my husband and I were planning our wedding, one of the things we were passionate about was making sure that we incorporated our Donauschwaben and his Swiss heritage into our big day. Our culture is such a big part of our everyday lives, how could we not include it on our wedding day? From the little details to the major components, there are essentially 6 ways to bring your heritage into your wedding and I’ll use our wedding as an example. These ideas can also be applied to pretty much any culture!
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The menu is a great way to bring your culture into your wedding day. From the appetizers and the meal, to the drinks and dessert, there are many opportunities here for customization. At our wedding we opted to have some German and Swiss inspired appetizers such as locally made German sausages and Schnipo (Swiss for Schnitzel und Pomme Frites).
We also had a “Schnapps Prost” instead of the classic Champagne Toast and we were able to bring our own booze for the bar, so we choose Stiegl and 312… my husband’s favorite Austrian beer and a local Chicago favorite.
Lastly for dessert, instead of a cake, our friends & family baked classic German cookies. We offered little take home containers for the cookies and they were a huge hit. Everyone loved the little traditional touches.
Whether it’s the bride and groom, wedding party, or the guests… wearing traditional dress is a fun and very unique way to incorporate your heritage into the wedding. For our wedding, I designed dirndls for all my bridesmaids and the flower girl. They were very elegant silver and black with black blouses that had a semi sweetheart neckline. All the bridesmaids were excited about wearing a wedding dirndl and they all said, “I cannot wait to wear it again!”
We also invited our guests to wear trachten if they’d like. Many people wore their dirndls and trachten suits to the wedding and it was really nice to see everyone get in the spirit.
My wedding dress also transformed into a bridal dirndl of sorts for the reception. After dinner and the dance with my dad, I took my tulle skirt off to reveal a shorter skirt underneath and then I added a beaded lace apron to give it a bridal dirndl look. It was so comfortable to dance in and I loved the look at the end of the evening. Wedding dirndls are a great way to incorporate the culture into your wedding day, especially if you want to wear something traditional for the ceremony and then spice it up for the reception, I highly recommend!
DJ or Band? Either way you go, bringing some traditional and cultural music into the mix is a super fun way to bring your heritage into your wedding day. We went with a DJ for our wedding, but we made sure he had a nice variety of classic German polkas and waltzes to mix in amongst the modern music. Everyone loved the mix of songs and it was easy to keep people on the dance floor with a good ol’ polka. It was so much fun to see so many dirndls out on the dance floor
Both my husband and I danced waltzes with our parents, him with his mom and me with my dad. Both of them loved the songs and the guests also enjoyed watching us dance.
If your venue will let you bring some décor items to decorate the space, this is a really unique way to make the day really special. Rosemary played a large part in the décor of our wedding. In traditional Donauschwaben weddings, it was used as bouquets, boutonnieres, décor on men’s hats etc as a symbol of love and remembrance. Since it’s a green herb, my florist and I choose flowers and greens that would compliment it well for the boutonnieres, bouquets and floral table arrangements. I designed a simple logo with our names and a graphic of the rosemary that was on the invitations and other printed items like the menu and programs. And lastly, were the individual rosemary sprigs with ribbon for the guests. Everyone felt more like a part of our day with their little Rosemarein.
On our welcome table we collected wedding photos from our families and displayed them for our guests to enjoy. It was a wonderful way to display our heritage that has been passed on through our families throughout the year.
Whether you have your ceremony in a Church or not, there are great ways to bring your culture into the ceremony. We did not get married in a church. This allowed us to customize our vows and other aspects of the ceremony to reflect not only our cultures but also our personalities.
The location of a ceremony or reception can be a fun way to bring your heritage into your big day as well.
While we didn’t have our wedding ceremony or reception at a place that was culturally influenced, it was in our neighborhood and we felt a connection to the venue in that way. However, I have had bridal customers who have had their receptions at their German Club’s hall, the local Hofbrauhaus etc.
So there you have it. 6 easy ways to incorporate your heritage and love of your culture into your wedding day. Did you have a culturally inspired wedding? I’d love to hear all about it in the comments! All photos by The Modern Lovebird
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Ever wonder which dirndl style you are? Click here to take our quiz and find out now!
]]>When I got an email from Krupa asking if we would ever consider making a dirndl out of Sari, my initial response was to squeal with excitement. Incorporating other cultures into a custom dirndl design is one of my absolute favorite things to do and when I heard Krupa's backstory... I was even more excited.
Krupa's parents, hailing from the vibrant land of India, instilled in her a deep appreciation for cultural diversity, and she grew up with a strong sense of the importance of embracing one's heritage.
When she decided to celebrate her 40th birthday at Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany, her initial Oktoberfest dress search didn't go as well as she had hoped. She wasn't finding anything that really spoke to her in any online dirndl shops. Because what she really wanted for this milestone trip, was a dirndl that seamlessly blended the elegance of her Indian roots with the charm of traditional Bavarian festival attire. Luckily for Krupa, she found Rare Dirndl!
Wearing a dirndl to Oktoberfest isn't just about blending in with the locals; it's a passport to a whole new level of fun and festivity. Sure, you might not be German, but wearing a beautiful cultural garment like a dirndl adds an extra dose of whimsy and flair to the Oktoberfest experience. It's like donning a costume for a grand celebration – an invitation to immerse yourself fully in the lively atmosphere. The vibrant colors, intricate designs, and playful accessories of a dirndl create an instant camaraderie with fellow revelers. Whether you're sipping on a stein of beer, dancing to the bands, or indulging in a giant pretzel with a heaping pile of radishes, wearing a dirndl transforms Oktoberfest into a spirited event where everyone is united by the joy of the festivities.
With this in mind, Krupa was ready to commit to a dirndl for Oktoberfest... but not just any dirndl.
Being from Chicago, she made an appointment to come to our dirndl shop to discuss her ideas and try on a few styles. At that appointment we decided on the size and fit of dirndl she liked and I got the extreme pleasure of looking at a few of her and her mom's Saris that she brought. For her, the most important part was that this be an authentic Oktoberfest outfit... not reminiscent of Halloween costumes and a proper blend her Indian heritage and the local Bavarian culture. I assured her that there would be zero chance that she would look like she was wearing a costume and that we would make something exquisite for her trip to Oktoberfest.
I knew that a Sari was an iconic garment originating from India, but what Krupa taught me is that the Sari typically consists of three main pieces: the 'pallu,' which is the decorated end that drapes over the shoulder; the 'pleats,' which are neatly folded and tucked at the waist to form the skirt; and the 'blouse' or 'choli,' a fitted top that complements the Sari's design.
The art of draping a Sari is an intricate skill passed down through generations, and the choice of fabric, color, and pattern often holds cultural and regional significance. From vibrant silk Saris worn during festive celebrations to more understated cotton ones for everyday wear, each Sari tells a unique story, reflecting the diversity, style, and beauty of Indian heritage. So... no pressure right?! The good news though... the typical Sari was upwards of 4 yards of fabric (sometimes 9) so we had plenty of fabric to work with.
Drawing upon the rich tapestry of Krupa's heritage, we embarked on a collaborative design journey. This Sari, was mostly orange with a gold, brown and green border. The pallu (the very end of the fabric which gets draped over the shoulder) was adorned with a more intricate pattern, so this is what we used to make the bodice. We laid out the pattern pieces very strategically and thoughtfully to really capture the essence of the original garment.
To make this Oktoberfest party dress really pop, we used the orange part of the Sari to make matching piping and hand-pleated neckline trimming.
Krupa really loved the look of the ribbon lacing and also thought the idea of incorporating some edelweiss was a great mix of the cultures. With this request in mind, we cut the center front of the dirndl to contain just a hint of the pattern from the pallu. This way when we added Edelweiss hooks and a ribbon, it wouldn't be covered or look too busy.
From there we moved on to the skirt. Krupa wanted a shorter skirt, which we cut from the main part of the Sari, making sure to keep the beautiful border at the bottom.
With this cherished Sari as our starting point, we carefully selected complementary fabrics from our stock, seeking to harmonize them with the radiant colors and patterns of the Sari. We found a beautiful iridescent chiffon that was green/red which was the perfect way to complete the look. We added more of the Sari's border to the apron ties to really give it that fusion of East and West, silk and cotton, to create a stunning ensemble that paid homage to Krupa's Indian heritage while seamlessly integrating into the Gemütlichkeit of Oktoberfest.
A detail about this skirt that is worth mentioning is that we had to line it with some of our stock fabrics. This Sari was originally meant to be worn pleated and tucked into the waistband of a petticoat or underskirt... so the fabric was a little too sheer. We lined it with some soft ivory and added those must-have pockets!
When Krupa finally saw herself in the finished dirndl, it was magic. The Sari, a piece of her mom's legacy, transformed into a stunning dirndl that was bursting with heritage and personality. It was more than a garment; it was a work of art and a tribute to Krupa's diverse background.
We believe every piece of clothing has a story to tell. And Krupa's dirndl? Well, it's a tale of cultural blending, creativity, and celebration of women. If you've got a vision for your own custom dirndl, we're all ears. Let's make something extraordinary, together!
Rare Dirndl specializes in unique and fashion-forward dirndls, but we are also known for our Custom Designed Dirndls that are made just for you. Whether you have a unique inspiration or, like Krupa, have a special garment that you want to use to make a dirndl that is truly special to you, the process starts by filling out the application. Once your application has been reviewed you will get an email notification regarding your status. If accepted and our waitlist is not full, we start work on your dirndl! For more detailed information regarding the custom dirndl process, CLICK HERE.
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So, you're going to Oktoberfest in Munich and you find yourself in need of dirndl dresses. Now the question is, do you buy it before you go there or buy it in Munich during Oktoberfest? This is a question that I have seen asked many times in different online Oktoberfest Travel forums and the suggestions are mixed.
Some people might suggest that you buy the dirndl before going to Germany, since it is quite difficult to find the right size and color when shopping in Munich (especially during Oktoberfest). Plus, if you shop online for a dirndl ahead of time, you can be sure that everything fits perfectly and you won't have to worry about whether it will be available when you get there.
On the other hand, if you do wait to buy your dirndl dresses in Munich, then you can enjoy the fact that each piece is locally made. Plus, chances are you could find a good Oktoberfest deal!!
While I’m a smidge biased (being the owner of an online dirndl shop n’ all) here are my honest-to-goodness thoughts on this topic.
There are pros and cons on both sides of this argument which I’ll outline shortly, but the down-and-dirty answer is:
If you’re going to be in Munich for 9 days and plan on going to the Wiesn for 3 days, then how cool is it to say you bought your Oktoberfest dirndl in Germany? If you're going to be in Munich for 2-3 days… do you really want to spend 1 of them shopping for dirndl dresses? If you really want to wear something locally made without the stress of finding a whole new outfit, try shopping for new accessories!
Oh you think so? There are tons of dirndl dress shops in Munich banking on people wanting to buy dirndls for Oktoberfest. So you’ll have to sift through the cheapo ones, navigate past the floor length, traditional wool ones going for 1,000€ and up, plus find one that fits well and you like… so ya… it’s going to take a while.
Ok, that being said here are the pros and cons of buying before your trip vs on your trip.
As mentioned, one of the benefits to buying ahead of time is if you have a unique size that's hard to find. For example, if you're looking for a plus size dirndl or you're small-chested, super tall, whatever your beautiful, unique body is, you want to make sure you find dirndl dresses that are comfortable, well-fitting and hug your curves in all the right places, so you can enjoy the Oktoberfest celebrations. Buying ahead of time makes it so you can take the time and get the right fit or make any alterations you need.
Pros and cons of buying a dirndl online before your trip vs in Munich, Germany. (Oh… and really all the same bullet points are applicable for buying Lederhosen.)
Want the best of both worlds? Shop our collection of unique dirndl dresses from Rare Dirndl ahead of time, we have so many different styles or fit every ones preferences! Try it on at home and if you don’t love it, send it back for FREE! That’s right. We offer FREE shipping over $100 and FREE returns. Click here to shop our dirndls.
P.S. We’re a small team of women dedicated to your happiness, so if you have questions about anything dirndl related or the shop, call, email, or chat with us anytime and we’ll be happy to help!
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Ever wonder which dirndl style you are? Click here to take out quiz and find out now!
Looking for more Dirndl Style tips & tricks? Click the link to get access to our official style guide! >> https://bit.ly/dirndlstyle
Before heading out for the day near St. Louis MO, Amanda got all dolled up in her Periwinkle Everyday Dirndl with a whole bunch of matching accessories that brought out her personality and made her feel like an everyday princess.
Here is what she has to say about this dirndl:
Rare Dirndl offers an “Everyday Dirndl,” which has the same great structure and design as all of their dresses, but in a a solid color palette, where the apron matches the dress. There are also no hooks or ribbons on the front of the dress (although there is an option to add those for an additional fee), so at first glance, anyone who sees you out and about in your dirndl will think it’s a simple sundress…perfect for the first-time dirndl wearer!
Let's have a moment to appreciate how Amanda has styled her Everyday Dirndl. On the photo below, we see her wearing her dirndl with Crew Neck Modest Dirndl Blouse and a Petticoat which makes the outfit feminine and festive. To balance the look and make it more casual yet edgy, she chose these gorgeous grange boots and as a result, the whole outfit turned out cool and punky!
I'm so happy to see my beautiful customers styling Everyday Dirndls in their own way, and all these looks are unique and stylish! This is what the Everyday Dirndl is about - you can use it as a canvas to create your own outfit for almost any occasion!
Amanda also pointed out in her blog post that she appreciated the Everyday Dirndl being customizable, here is what she said on this matter:
The Everyday Dirndl is a made-to-order item, which means you have to be patient while it’s created, but that also means that it’s customizable which makes it feel even more one-of-a-kind! I’m looking forward to seeing what colors are available in the future, because you never know when you just need to add another dirndl to your closet!
Click the link below to see them all!
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Ever wonder which dirndl style you are? Click here to take our quiz and find out now!
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Like many people who love Rare Dirndl, I have a strong connection to my German heritage. In 2010, my husband and I decided to do a month-long backpacking trip through Europe and we obviously spent a good amount of time in Germany!
It was this trip that made us both fall head over heels in love with travel and within a year, we found ourselves looking for jobs in Europe! My husband was offered a job in Bavaria, and we jumped on the opportunity. Germany has captured our hearts ever since!
We first moved to a small, little village in Bavaria thinking we would “Travel Travel Travel as much as we could only for a few years and then move back to Nebraska (home)”
Well, a few years came and went and we still weren’t ready to leave.
It was only after we had our first son that we decided in 2017 to move back to Nebraska, where we had our second son.
However, neither of us could quite shake the lifestyle that Germany offers and we often found ourselves daydreaming of going back.
In 2020, amidst the pandemic, we moved our family back to Regensburg, which is where we are still loving and living the German lifestyle today! We’ve even added a third kiddo to the chaos and can’t wait to see what all our futures hold here in Germany.
Since my husband and I had been traveling the world for several years, people and friends would always come to us for travel advice. I actually started a different blog for Budget Traveling, but that was more of a “for fun” and “I have no idea what I am doing blogging” kind of blog!
When we moved back to Germany in 2020, I found people asking us for all sorts of Germany travel advice again, so it was a perfect way for me to continue my creative writing, inspire others to travel to Germany, and share my in-depth, wealth of knowledge on everything Travel in Germany!
Since we have traveled here as young twenty-somethings on a backpacker's budget, are also travel hackers using points and miles for luxury travel, and now that we are well versed in traveling with a family, I have a unique and wide range of expertise on all things Germany Travel that many others don’t!
It actually sort of came from a few references. First, I knew I wanted “Germany” somewhere in the title since I knew the blog was ONLY going to focus on that (and nowhere else).
Second, we love hiking in the German Alps, where there are “Wander Wegs” (Wander in German can mean Hiking. So Wander Wegs (pronounced like “Vahnder Vegs”) means “Hiking Paths.” As a writer, I’m a sucker for plays on words, so I liked incorporating a German word that also doubled as an English one.
Finally, I feel like some of the beautiful, cobblestone streets of Germany are just made for, well… WANDERING! I’ll be the first to admit that I am a total “I need an itinerary” kinda gal (which is obvious when you read the blog, because I give insanely detailed suggestions for trips and leave no (cobble) stone unturned!) but sometimes, just wandering around, getting lost in the architecture and stumbling upon a great Biergarten is just what a travel heart needs!
There are a lot of great travel blogs out there. I actually feel like there are a few things that make WIG (what our community calls it in our Travel in Bavaria Facebook Group) unique.
Germany is obviously known for Oktoberfest! Let’s chat a bit about that…and of course Dirndls!
Not Enough!
Just kidding….sort of. (Seriously, is there such a thing as too many Dirndls???)
I have had three Dirndls, but not all at the same time. Let’s just say that my first Dirndl in my twenty-somethings is not the same Dirnd that I have 10+ years and 3 kids later!
My first was a fun purple and brown dress that was great at doing what Dirndls do best…show off a female figure!
My second was a size up after baby #1 and was a gorgeous baby blue and gold that felt quite fancy.
My third was Erika’s custom fit Dirndl because, despite living in Germany with a plethora of Dirndls at my fingertips, after my third baby, none would fit my expanded rib cage. They either fit that area and were huge everywhere else, or I could barely breathe trying to zip it up over my ribs, but then it fit everywhere else. When I found out that Erika would custom fit dresses exactly to MY new size, I knew that would be the perfect Dirndl for this phase of my Mom-life! I love how elegant it looks and I get TONS of comments on just how beautiful it is.
Meh….sort of. Sort of not!
If you go anywhere outside of (Southern) Bavaria, then no, you won’t see Trachten on a daily basis. In fact, people from the North (think Berlin) often roll their eyes when people just assume that everyone in Germany wears Lederhosen!
However, in Southern Bavaria, and well into Austria, I was SHOCKED when I saw that Trachten was very much not just some “German Stereotype!”
I’ll never forget the first week I lived in Bavaria and saw an old lady going to the store in her long Dirndl and me thinking, “Wait!? This is real!?”
Or even last week, I took the kids for a weekend of hiking in the Austrian Alps and there was a surprising amount of men wearing Lederhosen as their hiking shorts!
So, is “Wearing Lederhosen” (and Dirndls) a stereotype? Well, yes. Buuuut, in this case, the stereotype is based on some truth!
Now, if you are visiting Munich, still don’t expect to see a ton of Trachten. However, it’s also not that uncommon to see people dressed up for special occasions (birthdays, weddings, etc) wearing their beautiful Dirndls and Lederhosen!
Yes! Granted, nobody is going to actually notice, but traditionally speaking, you tie your apron:
This is completely personal, but going with some stereotypical braids is never going to steer you wrong! Now, just know what KIND of braids to do to not look like a tourist or Halloween costume. For example, avoid pigtail braids. However, crown braids or loose side braids are always an authentic look with a Dirndl.
Alternatively, flowy curls are often a popular choice for women who want a more elegant look for their Dirndl.
Adding a beautiful beret can round out a great look and if you want to add a flower crown, just keep it simple and understated.
One of the things that I love about wearing my Dirndl is that I feel so feminine and beautiful. Doing my hair in a complementary style is always fun to play up that look (since I don’t do it nearly often enough as a mom!)
You Betcha!!!
I know some people are worried about cultural appropriation or just looking like a silly tourist, but honestly, wearing Trachten(traditional German clothing) is 100% acceptable at Oktoberfest!
You can read exactly what a tourist should (and shouldn’t) wear to Oktoberfest here.
When we moved back to the US in between living in Germany, we had our own Oktoberfests at home and they were so fun! A few things I did to try to make it feel more “Authentic” was:
Ok, so you are clearly known as the Germany Travel Expert! So, let’s get some of your best tips, tricks, and answers to some Germany Travel advice!
Obviously, Neuschwanstein is one of the most famous castles (in the world!) and despite it being insanely touristy, it actually is still high up on my list of Best Castles in Germany. However, I absolutely love the Linderhof Castle (doable within a day trip to Neuschwanstein!) which is another one of “Mad King Ludwig’s” Palaces. Another great, fairytale-looking castle is the Lichtenstein Castle (which can be done in a day with nearby Hohenzollern- also a fantastic castle!) as a day trip from Stuttgart.
Germany is NOT lacking in beautiful towns and villages! Honestly, it is hard to pick. Places like Rudesheim with its half-timbered houses are like looking straight into a German postcard! Towns like Cochem that have a castle looming high over the winding river below are just beckoning for you to come visit! More “off the beaten path” places like Quedlinburg are completely underrated!
However, I’m just going to be completely biased here and pick my “home town” in Germany…Regensburg! It’s got everything you need in picture perfect German towns! Bright, pastel buildings, ancient roman history, Biergartens galore, a fantastic outdoor cafe culture, and so much more!
Traveling with kids in Germany is definitely different than when we were just a young couple galavanting throughout the country! However, Germany is still a family friendly destination. There is so much to do that caters to the little ones’ interests.
I love taking my kids to castles. I personally enjoy the history and the kids feel like they are Knights storming the castle!
The Black Forest with kids is a great place to explore, but the Bavarian Forest is arguably just as great for families (and even less touristy!)
There are also tons of amusement parks throughout Germany, like Legoland, Playmobil Funpark, and Europa Park is a blast for everyone, young and old!
Even the bigger cities like Munich and Berlin can still be fun for kids!
There are so many authentic, German foods to try that it can be hard to narrow it down.
Obviously, everyone wants to enjoy the Schnitzels (I prefer the Wiener Schnitzels- which are the breaded and fried ones) but it is fun to try different variations as well. And of course, you can’t go to Germany and not eat at least one delicious Wurst (again, soo many varieties to choose from- Curry Wurst is my personal fave!)
And of course, you can never go wrong with the crowd pleasing Käsespätzle!
Thanks LeAnna, for joining us today, sharing your story, some of your Germany travel wisdom, Dirndl fashion tips, and more!
Thanks so much for letting me connect with your own readers, Erika!
What I truly adore about Amanda is her classy and creative way of styling her dirndls for any occasion. She is amazing at mixing and matching her dirndl aprons and blouses to create beautiful looks! Check out how many looks she made using “die Heimat” Dirndl
Here Amanda is wearing her “die Heimat” Dirndl as it comes with the teal cotton apron and navy ribbon and chain lacings. She paired it with the Lace Short Sleeve V-Neck Dirndl Blouse, The Ultimate Hirsch Necklace in black, white textured tights, black mary-janes and her edelweiss clipped to a grey fedora.
Remembering and enjoying happy thoughts about "die Heimat" (the homeland) is what this dirndl is all about. It's tough, yet soft suede bodice paired with cute edelweiss metal hooks and an apron highlighting things from Europe that make you smile. This traditional style dirndl will have you looking just as authentic as a local at Oktoberfest.
With a quick apron and necklace change, Amanda’s dirndl was holiday ready! She used the Gnome Print Holiday Apron to take the dirndl from classic to Christmas.
Here, Amanda is wearing her “die Heimat” Dirndl with the Crystal Magic Apron, black dirndl blouse, The Ultimate Hirsch Necklace in black, and a white petticoat. Once again, Amanda changed the entire look of this dirndl by using just a chain lacing and adding the beaded apron… now this dirndl has been elevated to eleganza!!
Here is a picture of Amanda she styled her “die Heimat” Dirndl to be more casual with our limited edition Lemonade Stand Charity Apron. Using chain lacing and adding a cute zipper pull, this look is so sweet and summery… just like lemonade!
And just when you thought she had used “die Heimat” Dirndl to the max, she completely changed the look with another Holiday Apron. But this time she added red ribbon to the center front lacing, layered necklaces, burgundy tights & the most adorable sparkly holiday shoes.
So there you have it… 5 totally different looks from the amazing Amanda using just 1 dirndl. And I would put money down that she’s not done yet! I cannot wait to see how she continues to style this classic traditional dirndl.
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Ever wonder which dirndl style you are? Click here to take our quiz and find out now!
]]>Ashley Smith is a smart & witty world traveler, blogger, and Oktoberfest enthusiast who has become a go-to source for people all over across the globe looking to travel to Munich, Germany. Her website, MyWanderlustyLife.com is full of outstanding information especiall when it comes to THE Oktoberfest!
]]>And this is how she wore her Grey Everyday Dirndl, multiple times during Oktoberfest this year.
After a 2 loooong years, Oktoberfest made it’s return in 2022 and Ashley had her dirndls packed including ‘stay-at-home’ Oktoberfest Everyday Dirndl.
Here is Ashley in 2020 in her Everyday Dirndl during her very own Oktoberfest Party she held at her house. It was the perfect dirndl for a busy host with pretzels to bake and steins of beers to fill. She is wearing it with a simple pretzel necklace, and white V-neckline cap sleeve blouse.
In this photo, Ashley is back in her happy place, the tents at Oktoberfest. She paired her Grey Everyday Dirndl with a black cap sleeve blouse, black lace apron, Wiesn Glupperl, and a maß of Löwenbrau.
Here Ashley is wearing her Grey Everyday Dirndl with a long sleeve lace turtleneck blouse, one of our ‘Surprise Me’ Aprons, Wiesn Glupperl, and a maß of a delicious Oktoberfestbier.
On one of the last days of Oktoberest, Ashley wore her Grey Everyday Dirndl with a long sleeve lace turtleneck blouse and an fun apron that she made herself featuring pretzels and the colors of the Münchenerkindl.
If you are already planning your trip to Oktoberfest next year, I Ashley’s Oktoberfest planning sessions come HIGHLY recommended. One of my customers said, “That was easily the best money I spent to get ready for this epic trip”.
Looking for a quick Oktoberest Packing Checklist? Ashley and I collaborate on this and you Click here to download a FREE copy.
]]>What I love most about Ingrid is her unapologetic love for wearing Dirndls for any occasion. She has expressed on multiple occasions how much she loves wearing her Everyday Dirndl to do literally everyday things. Below are a collection of photos she has sent me of the ways she wears her Everyday Dirndls.
Here Ingrid is taking her beloved pup for a walk in her grey Everyday Dirndl. She is wearing it with a classic white puff sleeve Dirndl blouse, black leggings, and black walking shoes. She completes the look with a black edelweiss necklace her watch and a beautiful sun hat.
In this photo, Ingrid is smiling with her husband while she wears her gray Everyday Dirndl with an adorable gray hat and a floral top instead of a dirndl blouse. This is a quick and easy way to change the look of any dirndl.
Ingrid is wearing her grey Everyday Dirndl to relax at home and read a book. Instead of a Dirndl blouse, she has chosen to wear a gray and black lace long sleeve shirt and a crystal necklace black tights, and house shoes. A beautifully comfortable outfit for a day at home.
Here is a picture of Ingrid at Germanfest Milwaukee this past year. She is wearing her black Everyday Dirndl with a white blouse lit black Edelweiss necklace and Black lace fedora adorned with Bavarian-inspired pins. She’s also wearing it with an apron that she made herself!
It was a true joy to see Ingrid at Germanfest in Milwaukee and always see her rocking her Everyday Dirndl for doing everyday things.
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Ever wonder which dirndl style you are? Click here to take our quiz and find out now!
]]>The dirndls popularity declined following WWII, but saw a resurgence in the 1990s and again the late 2010s. Like all fashion, the dirndl has changed and evolved over the decades.
One of the key reasons Rare Dirndl was founded was to add more fun, personality and awesomeness to the dirndl world… but recently, you know… 2020… things changed. And thus our dirndl designs did too. We took it back a bit, like a lotta bit! Our Everyday Dirndl is our modern version of what those who first wore dirndls were wearing to do their work in the fields and around the home.
This dirndl is literally designed for everyday wear. And lucky for us we have washing machines, so this dirndl is machine washable and easy to care for. The solid color with a matching solid apron is ideal for a casual dirndl look. Folks at the market will just assume it’s an adorable sundress! Plus it’s super easy to dress up or down with accessories! Check out these REAL customers who have worn their Everyday Dirndls to do just about anything and everything.
@raredirndl Keeping up with life at home in my Everyday Dirndl! #dirndl #momlife #bossmom #dirndlcommunity ♬ GOOD VIBES - Ellen Once Again
But don’t just take our word for it. Here is what Erin K. had to say about her Everyday Dirndl
“I received my Everyday Dirndl this week and it did not disappoint! I ordered the dress in brown, and also an additional apron. The dress is very flattering on so many different bodies and I, as a plus size person, felt comfortable and confident wearing mine while doing lots of “mom things” (cooking, laundry, and chasing kids around). I’m 5’9” and it hits me right below the knee. I also love the additional apron, it’s beautiful and was such a fun add-on that goes really well with my new dirndl.”
Interested in ordering an Everyday Dirndl for yourself? CLICK HERE and we will make one for you. They are each made to order and take approximately 8 weeks to deliver. You can customize it with a lace-up corset style front, your own personal measurements or a 2nd Surprise apron.
(If we're currently sold out, click here to get on the waitlist >> https://bit.ly/everyday-dirndl-waitlist)
(oh and don’t forget… it’s washable!)
@raredirndl Time to glam up? #likeariverchallenge #momboss #dirndl #oktoberfest #dirndlcommunity ♬ Like A River (Step On It Vers) - softmadeit🥇
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Ever wonder which dirndl style you are? Click here to take our quiz and find out now!
]]>Now that I have my own home, we have a closet in one of the rooms dedicated to our trachten as well. It’s not as nice as my parent's cedar closet, but all the dirndls, blouses, lederhosen, trachtenhemden, socks etc have their own place.
I was curious to find out if other folks had a dirndl closet so I posed the question to the members of our Rare Dirndl First Looks Club Facebook Group. Here is what they said:
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“it’s almost to the point where my wife, Petra actually will be needing the second closet as well for all of her Dirndls!!! Nothing special about the closet, except that it is almost 8 ft wide, and completely stuffed FULL of only Dirndls. But in her defense, she actually DOES wear her Dirndls quite a lot, whenever she possibly can. AND….she looks amazing in them!!!” - Fred Galowitsch
“My dirndl closet is half my regular closet. Everything fits, which means I need more dirndls” - Ingrid Nieman
“My coat closet has pretty much become my tracht closet. Full of dirndls and related items. just a couple coats in the back. The accessories such as hats, scarves, socks, petticoats, jewelry that are tracht are also stored there.” - Tobi Cisin
“This is one of my rolling racks of dirndls. I keep each dirndl in its own clear front breathable garment bag with the matching apron. The bonus aprons are hanging in bundles or folded in clear bins. The blouses, hats, purses and bloomers are kept in clear bins for easy access (when it stays organized lol) A separate jewelry cabinet is home to my Dirndl related gems. I’ll admit the jewelry often does not end up back in the cabinet. My drop and go lifestyle usually requires that I pause and reorganize often in order to find a specific item. I like to keep a print on file with the original Rare Dirndl advertisement of a specific Dirndl so that I can reassemble the outfit with the recommended blouse and apron. This may sound somewhat organized but alas I need this management process as I become unorganized often!” - Anita Kalkhof
“My Dirndls have a large side of the closet almost to themselves” Mary Pat Turon Findley
@raredirndl #dirndl #dirndlliebe #dirndlcommunity #harrypottertiktok ♬ draco simp since 2016 - rylie depue
Now we want to hear from you! Do you have a dirndl closet or somewhere special you keep all of your trachten? Tell us about it in the comments.
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Ever wonder which dirndl style you are? Click here to take our quiz and find out now!
]]>Since starting Rare Dirndl in 2010, as the founder and designer, I’ve had my pulse on the Dirndl and its trends. This presentation originally for the folks at the GAHC, dives into the topic of the modern dirndl design and how it has evolved over the past 10 years. From what is happening in Germany vs America to the differences in fabrications and sales avenues, I touch on all the relevant topics you'll want to hear about.
Disclosure: This information is based on personal experience and observation.
In the US there are 2 manufactures of Dirndls and had a distinct style
In Germany there was a flood of new designers and larger manufactures creating more modern designs
American’s were not buying these dirndl dresses online
I founded Rare Dirndl
Kim Kardashian, Chris Jenner, & Paris Hilton go to Oktoberfest wearing Lola Paltinger Dirndls
Oktoberfest in Munich attendance surges to 6.9 million visitors
2013: Münchner Trachtentage
I was among many other German designers and gained experience and knowledge talking to German consumers. Key takeaways included:
Noticed a difference in the fabrics I was using vs what the German companies were using
Oktoberfest gains MAJOR momentum in the US
More places and opportunities to purchase dirndl dresses
In the past decade a lot has changed in the dirndl industry both in the United States and in Germany. Watching styles change and forecasting trends is a major part of any fashion designers job, and the dirndl industry is no different. Trends have come and gone, migrated across the continents, and vary by region… but one thing remains the same. It is a staple garment at Oktoberfest and is very popular among German-American’s looking for ways to celebrate their heritage. I hope you enjoyed this journey with me from the most wild and ornate of designs of the 2010s to today’s popular, more demure and laid back styles.
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Ever wonder which dirndl style you are? Click here to take our quiz and find out now!
]]>In a time in history where we unfortunately find ourselves with few special occasions to wear our dirndl dresses to, I’ve found joy in wearing my traditional dirndl as everyday wear to everyday places and to do everyday things.
Not only does it give me a reason to feel like I’m dressed up (and out of my sweatpants) but it also makes me happy!
The Everyday Dirndl is the perfect dirndl for this. It’s ease of design, washable fabric and monochromatic style make it ideal for doing everyday things.
We are at a time in history where “athleisure” and “loungewear” are all the rage, but I say… let’s make dirndl dresses all the rage!
Here are some of our fabulous customers living their lives, doing everyday things in their dirndl dresses.
Cheryl wore her dirndl with a comfortable long sleeve shirt & adorable green booties when she went out for dinner at Laschet’s Inn.
Christina (@happytowander) wore her dirndl with a keyhole blouse to brighten her mood at home. She said she felt like “Belle” from “Beauty and the Beast”!
Victoria styled her dirndl with a white blouse and warm jacket for an afternoon walk in the park
Ashley (@mywanderlustylife) wore her dirndl with a t-shirt blouse when she was celebrating her own Oktoberfest at home!
Cheyenne rang in the New Year with her new dirndl! She styled it with an elegant lace blouse, beaded headband and Edelweiss Necklace; the perfect outfit for sipping bubbly with her partner.
Ingrid wore her dirndl with a comfortable long sleeve top, leggings and her house slippers. The ideal outfit for relaxing at home with a good book.
Jenny got all dolled up to go apple picking with her daughter! (I think the shoes were more for the photo haha)
I wore my dirndl when I took my kids to see sunflower fields. I wore it with a lacy t-shirt and boots and long socks.
Cathy styled her dirndl with tall black boots, a lace blouse, edelweiss scarf and her mask when she went out during the cold weather months.
One dirndl… but styled nine different ways, for nine different occasions and by nine different fabulous women.
How will you style your Everyday Dirndl? Do you have a more goth style? Or maybe you love vintage pin-up… or maybe you love glitz and glam!
No matter what your personal style, you can make this dirndl work for you.
Ever wonder which dirndl style you are? Click here to take our quiz and find out now!
]]>We are all acutely aware that since 2020 our lives have been turned upside down and things we considered “normal” have shifted. Our favorite events have been cancelled, our habits changed dramatically and the way in which we communicate also shifted. Zoom is a common app, suddenly we all new hobbies, new ways to manage our mental health and we appreciated our healthcare workers more than ever.
]]>We are all acutely aware that since 2020 our lives have been turned upside down and things we considered “normal” have shifted. Our favorite events have been cancelled, our habits changed dramatically and the way in which we communicate also shifted. Zoom is a common app, suddenly we all new hobbies, new ways to manage our mental health and we appreciated our healthcare workers more than ever.
One thing that remained the same among us dirndl fans… was our love for our heritage and dirndls! Many of us had grand plans of wearing our dirndls to annual German club picnics, summer festivals and of course, those Munich travel plans for Oktoberfest. All of those plans… poof - gone.
But that didn’t stop us from finding ways to wear our dirndls! Even during quarantine times, we found ways! Working from home? How about Trachten Fridays. German night at home... such a fun way to get everyone in the household dressed up. Virtual German Dinner Parties with friends via zoom? Hell Ya!
Here are some photos of our AMAZING customers making the BEST of a scheißsandwhich situation… of course, wearing their dirndls.
In the pictures I am wearing two different One-of-a-Kind Rare Dirndls, the coral/tan I am wearing at Detroit's Oktoberfest and the Grey/Teal you may have seen me spotting at Labor Day in Chicago. Growing up in a German Culture society has always brought me the greatest gifts one gets in life, love and happiness.
From the endless amount of memories to making some of the greatest friendships, sharing in my heritage has always been some of my happiest day. One of my favorite memories was that of getting to wear a "fun" dirndl. I remember getting handed down one of my Oma's dirndls to wear when I was younger and getting told stories of her times in the old country. It was and has always been the great blessing. Now, I am lucky enough that I have two of my very own One-of-a-Kind Rare Dirndls of my own to hang in the Dirndl Closet next to Oma's!
Want to learn more about the One-of-a-Kind Dirndl Sale and get on the VIP List? CLICK HERE
Do you want to be the next Rare Dirndl Customer Spotlight? As the winner you will receive a $50 Coupon Code for any online purchase, a feature on the Rare Dirndl Website and Blog, and a gift package worth approx $100!! Click here to get all the details!
]]>When the DNA ancestry tests came out I was immediately intrigued... but I resisted for a long time. There was one commercial that straight-up made me not want to go through with the test. "Growing up we were German. We danced in a German dance group. I wore Lerderhosen... I decided to have the DNA tested... the big surprise was we weren't German at all." AH WHAT?! Hell NAH! I wasn't going to pay someone to turn my life upside down. I was convinced that if I took this test... I was going to have to throw in the dirndl towel and start my life over.
Years go by and it's Christmas time again and I need a gift for my parents. My sister and I decided that a 23andMe DNA test would be a fun gift so we went for it. They had a special before Thanksgiving that if you buy 2 you get the 3rd free. Monika says, "you should take it!" [insert panic and anxiety]. After purchasing the kits and pondering this idea, I realized that it doesn't matter what the results say, I'm still the same person and I might find out even more cool stuff about myself.
So I did it. It was SO easy! Spit into tube - send tube to lab - get email results. Ready for my results?
Well... let's just say it was a lovely wave of relief when I saw my results. Quick background: My grandparents grew up in "German" towns in Yugoslavia. WAY back in the day, Maria Theresia said, "hey southern Germans... want to go to these areas down the Danube River (what was Yugoslavia, Hungary, and Romania) and we'll give you some free land to farm and live on?" "Hell ya! Let's do it!" Then after WWII, the whole area became... well... not fans of the Germans. The communist regime at the time decided it would best to send capable workers (of German ancestry) to be slaves in places like Russia and non-capable people like women, kids, and old people were moved to small towns and converted into camps to starve since they didn't need them. Hence the massive migration of the Donauschwaben to places like North and South America. With that in mind, being Donauschwaben, I was expecting to find much more Eastern European in the mix than 3.4%.
But the majority of my ancestry... German! YAY Rare Dirndl lives on haha! "We predict you had ancestors in Germany & Switzerland within the last 200 years." Well, 23andMe... you predict right. From the chats I had with my grandparents from talking to their parents etc, it's said that before moving down the Danube to Yugoslavia, my ancestors lived in the Black Forest region of Germany.
So now when people meet me and I explain what I do for a living and they respond with, "so... you're German then?" I can confidently say, "Yes. Yes I am!"
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Ever wonder which dirndl style you are? Click here to take our quiz and find out now!
]]>On a random whim, I sent them an email saying how much I enjoy their show and should they every find themselves in need of dirndls, I’m their gal. Much to my delight, I got a response… and even more excitingly, it read; “ OMG YES! WE WANT DIRNDLS!” – truly a reply I wasn’t expecting but was giddy to read and couldn’t wait to get started working on their custom ‘Wine & Crime’ dirndls to be worn at the 2018 CrimeCon in Nashville TN.
I started by getting out my markers and doing a group sketch of 3 dirndl styles that incorporated with the color story: black, white, red and turquoise. I wanted to keep the looks different for Kenyon, Lucy & Amanda… but at the same time, very cohesive as a group.
For Kenyon, I went with black suede for the regal neckline bodice with turquoise piping, black poplin skirt, and red iridescent chiffon apron. The lace up front had both chain and turquoise ribbon and the hemline of the skirt was accented with white ribbon and black lace overlay.
For Lucy, I thought the satin black and white stripe would be fun to pair with a black poplin bodice. The red piping matched the red ribbon lace up from and the turquoise vintage rayon crinkle apron was the perfect match the tie it all together. (for some reason these pics turned out blurry... 😑)
And for Amanda, I went with a black satin bodice with white piping, white lace up front, turquoise skirt and then a fun black chiffon apron, but with a pop of red from the apron ties. Each dirndl was paired with a black Off-the-Shoulder Blouse with Gathers.
After approval from the gals, it was time to compile fabrics and get to the cutting table. I made it a little extra special for each of them (like I do with custom dirndls), by adding a fun lining. Amanda got a Harry Potter inspired lining; Lucy got doughnuts (since I remember they were part of her bachelorette party brunch); and Kenyon got wine bottles and grapes… because after all, it is the Wine & Crime podcast!
Another fun tidbit about this project was the promotional cards I designed. I knew if I simply provided them with business cards to handout to people, they would end up in the dreaded collection of ‘business cards you got at the convention that you hold on to for 9 months because you might need the info until your cleaning and decide you don’t need them anymore so you throw them out’. I wanted to make more of an impression and Sam came up with the genius idea to have coasters printed! So that’s what I did… custom wine themed dirndl coasters!
I was super happy with how the dirndls turned out and I could not wait to see them on the gals. I also must say, every time they mentioned dirndls on the podcast, I felt famous haha! Hearing Lucy talk about she keeps checking the post office to see if they arrived was so awesome.
THEY ARE INCREDIBLE!!! You went above and beyond with these!!! We are so thrilled and excited to wear them at CrimeCon and like every single event after that for the rest of time. They’re so well made and you are correct, they do increase confidence!
When the weekend of CrimeCon arrived I felt a little stalker-ish creeping on all the social medias to get a glimpse of Kenyon, Lucy and Amanda in their dirndls. It was even on the CrimeCon Instagram!
The dirndls were a HIT!!!!! All the coasters are gone and we got a bazillion compliments! They were SO COMFY and we love them so much.
The gals of the Wine & Crime Podcast were a joy to work with and it was a lot of fun to create a group of dirndls that fit a specific color story and theme. You know what else was super fun?!?! Seeing them do a LIVE taping of their podcast here in Chicago! Sam and I donned Wine & Crime colored dirndls - I wore the Little Black Dirndl with a red apron, black blouse and turquoise lacings. Sam wore the In Bloom Dirndl with a silver apron, turquoise semi-circle skirt and red polka dot blouse. It was so lovely to meet these fabulous ladies in person.
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Ever wonder which dirndl style you are? Click here to take our quiz and find out now!
]]>After having worn her dirndl for the entire year Layne had this to say to recap her adventure:
Lessons from my year ‘In Bloom’
Color: My mother told me once I live my life in mourning, constantly wearing black. What can I say, I like dark colors, but with the in bloom I found that I could wear yellow, and pink, two colors I never wear. The vibrant colors look so good in contrast to the black. I was initially afraid to wear a printed apron, thinking it may be too much with the lace, but it was not the case. Big bright floral prints and even busy little pretzel prints work with this dirndl. Don’t be afraid to wear a color you usually don’t, thanks to this dress, I learned that I could wear a loud color and look great in it.
Quick Changes: You can be a diva and have an outfit change in the middle of the day. Anyone who knows anything about me knows I am in no way shape or form, a diva. But in Cincinnati, I flipped the script two days in a row! I felt like Mariah Carey and her nail polish changes in the middle of a show. Midwest weather can be a bit tricky to navigate, but with a costume change you feel refreshed and ready to start the night.
Versatility: With 10 aprons, 10 blouses and 21 aprons (obvious apron addict here) I bet I could wear this dirndl for a solid 5 years without repeating a look. It’s so versatile it’s really the only one you will ever need.
To get your own In Bloom Dirndl click HERE and use coupon code: YEARINBLOOM to save 10%
Packing: I go to Chicago, a lot. And with the In Bloom I can pack what I need and it saves a bunch of space, even the petticoat can pack down to next to nothing in a carry-on. Travel with dirndls can be a hassle, worrying about wrinkles, not with the In Bloom.
Petticoats: Foundation to an outfit is key, a petticoat can give you a just enough bounce in your dirndl. A little girly feeling without going overboard. I love how flirtatious a petticoat looks hanging out just a little at the bottom of the dirndl. I feel that a dirndl without a petticoat, is just a dirndl. A petticoat gives you that extra something, and a little more warmth in the winter.
My Concerns:
When we first decided on this idea I thought, ‘well, color blocking is fun’, but then I realized I wanted more than just colors, I wanted prints too. I sent her an email that said “Hey! I need a wiener dog!” A week later I get a picture and email saying “Look how great this came out!!” Erika can take your idea and come back at you with something way better than you ever expected.
As much as I love this dirndl I had some concerns starting this journey....the lace skirt. I was worried that between drinking all the Slivo and the heavy jewelry I like to wear I was gonna rip the lace... amazingly I did not! The lace top skirt is pretty resilient.
I was worried about the super delicate chain it comes with. Let me tell you ladies, I was not delicate with it. I pulled and pulled on it for a year and it held up. I was legit shocked the chain didn’t come apart at some point. It’s way stronger than it looks.
The In Bloom is great. I truly think Erika sprinkles a little magic in every one of them. Even though I may put it aside for a little while to wear other dirndls, the In Bloom is my favorite for sure. I’m open to any questions anyone may have about this dirndl and trust me, I won’t sugar coat my answers.
If you are in the market but hesitant about the price, don’t be. I was, I had to look at it for at least 8 months before I bought it. By far the best dirndl purchase I have ever made!
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What to save 10% on your own In Bloom Dirndl? Click here and use coupon code: YEARINBLOOM at checkout
]]>One of the great things about having a sister is that sometimes you can share clothes! But when it comes to these sisters... they'd rather just have their own dirndl (even if it's the same as their sister!).
Wearing matching dirndls, even if they are not exact matches, is so much fun! I love matching my sister and honestly when the whole family get's involved... I love it even more!
]]>Wearing matching dirndls, even if they are not exact matches, is so much fun! I love matching my sister and honestly when the whole family get's involved... I love it even more! Below are a collection of photos from Rare Dirndl customers and Super Fans in their dirndls with their sister (even if it's a sister-in-law or sister from another mister 😉)
Not ready to commit to rocking the same dirndl as your sister? That's ok... how about just the bracelet! Click here to snag our most popular bracelet that ever sister sister duo needs to have! (Plus they're $20 each or 2 for $30!!)
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Ever wonder which dirndl style you are? Click here to take our quiz and find out now!
]]>Gerti found this traditional dirndl dress back in 1990 when she was visiting family in Austria. She bought this magenta plaid, one-piece dirndl at a Kastner & Öhler (or K&O) in Graz, Austria. She said, "I loved the color and I remember it was on sale."
Well, who doesn't love a great traditional dirndl on sale?! Gerti was with her two young sons so this dirndl holds great memories of that trip and her time abroad with her boys.
She was fine with the skirt and apron remaining the same, but the bodice, "is a bit dated and the sleeves are a bit too poofy." I suggested making the bodice a solid cotton, ditching the sleeves and using that fabric to create a neckline trim and then adding a chic ribbon lace up front. Gerti loved my suggestions so she said goodbye to the old dirndl and I got the scissors ready!
First I carefully removed the buttons and the lace from the neckline. I wasn't sure how or if I was going to use them, but I wanted to make sure that if I did they were in good shape. I then removed the sleeves and pressed the fabric. There was a remarkably large amount of fabric to use from the sleeves.
It turned out to be a bit tricky to turn the fabric into a trim because of the plaid. If I cut the strips for the trim in one direction, the trim would be mostly white... and if I did it in the other direction, it would have been mostly pink.
So I decided to add a woven fusible interfacing to the fabric and then cut it on the bias. This means it was cut on a 45 degree angle which would include an equal amount of pink and white!
I placed the fusible strategically so that the fabric would no longer stretch when I cut it on the bias... and yes, I pieced smaller pieces of fusible together to use up some scraps. Since it was just for the trim, it's fine, but I don't do this for dirndl bodices... don't worry! 😉
Eventually, I found a perfect magenta to match the plaid and I used that as the bodice. The white piping added at the princess seams and the armholes popped perfectly and tied the skirt into the bodice, but I felt like it wasn't enough.
After I reattached the skirt, I saw the lace sitting to the side and thought... what if I sew that around the neckline first and then the pleated trim over the top. There was literally juuuuuuust enough lace. Booya!! Getting closer...
Finally I added silver hooks to the front that have a floral motif to accent the little purple flowers in the plaid. With the final touch of a white ribbon and chain to lace up the front... it was just enough balance of magenta and white, modern and nostalgia, elegance and fun. If I do say so myself... Nailed it!
I surprised Gerti with the finished piece for Christmas and she was overjoyed with the results. I was so excited and couldn't wait to see it on her. About 6 months later, in July, she posted this photo to Facebook with the caption, "From old to new! I bought this Dirndl in Graz, Austria in 1990. Thank you Erika Neumayer of Rare Dirndl for updating it and making it even more beautiful... and it still fits after almost 30 years."
I was elated to see how flattering the updated look was and how gorgeous Gerti looked in the color. Another up-cycle project - CHECK. Another happy customer - CHECK. Happy designer - DOUBLE CHECK!
I do wish I took more photos of the original dirndl dress, but I was just so excited to get started... I only thought about taking the pictures after it was too late... oopsies. If you have an old dirndl that’s been in your family for years… or a prom, special occasions, or bridesmaid’s dress, and you would like me to up-cycle it into a fresh and new dirndl send me an e-mail erika@raredirndl.com and we can get the ball rolling.
Pricing is the similar to a custom dirndl, Click here for a PDF of the process and pricing. These are some of my favorite projects to work on and I can’t wait to work with you!!
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Ever wonder which dirndl style you are? Click here to take our quiz and find out now!
]]>Working with brides is truly one of my favorites things about my job! I have created a lot of unique bridal dirndls over the years and each one was such a pleasure to design and make. While some brides chose to wear their dirndl for their German-themed rehearsal dinner, others wore theirs for the wedding ceremony and others just for the reception. Every bride was different and their wedding matched their personal style. Here is a look at some of our brides and what they had to say about their wedding.
I could not have asked for a better wedding—I have never felt so surrounded by supportive and loving people before and everyone who was a part of this day helped make it what it was. It was a day that truly made me realize who my family was, chosen or not. :)
Being a member of Gemutlichen Enzianer for almost 20 years and also a member of the United German Hungarian for almost two years my German heritage has always been a big part of my life. I have met many great friends and even my husband through this amazing community. Growing up every girl dreams of the perfect dress that they want to wear on their wedding day, for me that wasn't the case. For me it was having the perfect dirndl to wear as I dance with my clubs to a traditional German folk dance at the reception and surprise everyone, including my husband as we lined up on the dance floor to dance for with a beautiful dirndl.
Our rehearsal was a nod to the groom’s hometown of Lissendorf, Germany. Our guests were asked to wear German inspired attire, and most happily complied. We danced the night away with a German band, and enjoyed both German and Chicago inspired treats.
Everything went amazing that day. I had my favorite band (Die Schlauberger) to play; something I've always dreamt about! I was super excited to wear the amazing Rare Dirndl that people kept asking me about, as I kept it a surprise for the party at the end of the night. I wore it at the reception, the after party and the next night at the Mountain Brauhaus. Of course as Germans, we had to keep the party going for an entire weekend! Everyone loved it! Not only did I have my dirndl, but many people came with leiderhosen to change into as well. The funny thing was hearing people that are not used to German music or tradition, excited about DSB and our "outfit changes". Everything went off without a flaw. What an amazing time it was!
We brought a little bit of Bavaria to the West Virginia Hills with our wedding. Our Oktoberfest style wedding featured many traditions from the Polterabend, apparel, log sawing, lebkuchen herzen, polka dancing, cuisine, and the pranking of the newlywed bedroom. The night was capped with fireworks and campfire.
We truly had the perfect day!! Our ceremony was short and sweet with the sweetest words shared in our vows to each other. Steve and I danced the night away with our family and friends. die Schlauberger played all the best songs in true Oktoberfest style. We also shared lots of beer and enjoyed a tasty roasted pig dinner! It was a blast. We all felt gorgeous and stunning in our Rare Dirndls...thank you again for helping to make our day so special!
When we were planning our wedding, my now-husband and I decided our biggest priority was for everyone to have a great time. And what better way to do that than have an Oktoberfest rehearsal dinner (never mind that it was late August)! Our family and friends had a great time, whether it was their first introduction to dirndl and lederhosen or my Donauschwaben family rocking their traditional tracht.
We decided to have a German themed wedding rehearsal in honor of my German heritage! Everyone raved about my gorgeous dirndl! They especially loved how the colors of our wedding, sage and plum, were incorporated into the dirndl truly em-boding a one of kind masterpiece! The dirndl really made our dress rehearsal memorable.
My bridal dirndl was everything I dreamed it would be! Our fairytale wedding day was simply unforgettable
The wedding was so much fun! My parents went above and beyond to supply the German traditions. My mom bought us a wedding cup in Munich last year, and we drank out of it. My dad made us a frame and supplied a log and saw for the Baumstammsagen. Plus the cake we cut was the Black Forest Torte. Looking at the pictures yesterday, I remembered how much I felt like a princess in my dress. It was the most special day, and thank you so much for making it happen!
Our wedding was awesome! Everything came together perfectly. We came up with the Oktoberfest wedding idea over a maß at the Old German Beer Hall in Milwaukee with the best man. We didn't know how it would come together but we figured between our friends and family we would have fun regardless. Once Erika designed my dress everything else fell into place. I could envision the colors and theme and couldn't be more excited. Our guests had a great time. The food was delicious. The band was the best. But, most importantly my dirndl stole the show. I had so many compliments. I can't wait to wear it every anniversary to an Oktoberfest! It was about 90 degrees and we got married outside in a beer garden. We regretted doing the traditional log cutting ceremony after a few minutes of sawing. (it's way harder than it looks!) But, in the end it was the best day of my life. I would do it again next weekend if I could. :)
As my husband Daniel and I were talking about what to wear for the wedding, neither one of us was excited about "traditional" American attire. It seemed natural to us to dress in traditional ethnic clothes, Russian for him, his son, our best man and my matron of honor, and German for me! We are both choir directors for our Russian Orthodox churches, so our ceremony was sung by about 25 of our choir friends, in English and Slavonic. Our best man and matron of honor are also choir directors, so naturally we have a picture of all of us singing along during the ceremony. The reception was also a nice mix of German and Russian tradition with plenty of sausages, hot German potato salad (made by my Mom), pierogies, and all kinds of other European treats. Our band played plenty of polkas and traditional German and Russian music along with American favorites. Working with Erika was so fun and easy, and even though I didn't know exactly what I wanted, she was able to create the dress of my dreams! I'm even more excited to have a wedding dress that I will be able to wear again! I can't wait to get my next Rare Dirndl.
The wedding was beautiful! The dress could not have been more perfect! My mother wore her dirndl she bought in Germany. (She was born and raised in southern Germany.)
For me, getting married meant moving countries and embracing my husband's culture. My gorgeous wedding rehearsal dirndl helped me show off my own heritage that I'm so proud of. Wearing the dirndl made by Erika and my sister Samantha made the perfect outfit for an amazing celebration!
Everyone LOVED my dirndl..... they thought it was the most unique dress choice ever ;)
It was an amazing fairytale wedding - we had a wonderful time. Everyone loved my dirndl and marks vest - awesome job.
When my mom and I went to Germany, our favorite thing to do was to sit in the town square and watch all the ladies walk by in their drindls. We both agreed then that when I got married, we would fly back to Germany to have mother and daughter drindls made. Unfortunately, when I got engaged, my mom had recently passed away. It was important to me to honor our agreement and find a drindl for my wedding dress. My one-of-a-kind wedding dirndl was exactly what my mom and I had in mind so long ago. The best part about my dress is that my mom and I had the idea for it, and Erika made it a reality.
—Connie Gartner Williams Bay, WI
I had specific color tones in mind for my bridal dirndl as I wanted it to match a 100 plus year-old family heirloom, a Schiffli lace veil made from my great-grandmother’s wedding dress. I desired subdued elegance; no tulle, beads, and sequins for me. Erika understood my vision; we agreed on a champagne and pale gold dress with a sheer lace apron. I really can’t thank her enough and the pictures say it all.—Mary-Claire Glasenhardt Chicago, IL
The wedding was epic. My dirndl was absolutely beautiful at the Oktoberfest Welcome Dinner we held the night before. It was a total hit!
—Kristina Haas Oakland CA
I had such a difficult time finding a dress. It needed to be beautiful enough to be my wedding dress but fun and in the spirit of Kiskerfest and Erika was the perfect person to go to. When I found Rare Dirndl I was so excited and from our first phone call to excitedly opening the dress for the first time I knew it was the perfect match!
Kiskerfest was about sharing our love and some of our favorite things with the people we care most about and starting off our marriage with a lot of happiness. From the food to the music and our special Lederhosen and Dirndl everything was perfect.
—Rachel Kisker Stockton, CA
Photo credit Mary Mason Photography
Our wedding was fabulous. The dress worked perfectly. We also had the only significant snow storm hit the day before so we had great pictures. But we were snowed in and I couldn’t leave to get my hair and makeup done, but it turned out perfect.
Photo credit Mary Mason Photography
The custom bridesmaid dirndl from Rare Dirndl is truly a bridesmaid dress I will wear again! I loved the apron, it was gorgeous and really made the piece unique. I also loved the blouslette that was paired with it and am so happy to be able to wear it with all my other dirndls as well. It is perfect for summer events as it’ll be great to stay cool and not get dirndl blouse tan lines!
—Ashley Harker Waukesha, WI
When we first got engaged I proposed an Oktoberfest themed wedding and Ryan loved the idea! October 13 was the day that my dirndl wearing changed forever. No dirndl will ever be able to compete with my bridal dirndl. Beautiful is an understatement for how I felt that day, and I owe it all to Erika. She made my dirndl dreams come true more than she could ever imagine. I felt gorgeous the entire day and Ryan even cried when I came down the aisle (shh...).
Photo credit https://andrewmorrell.com/
Our wedding day was better than I could have imagined or hoped for. It truly embodied Gemütlichkeit, just like we wanted. In addition to the wedding party dressing in Bavarian style, we also invited all of our guests to as well--and we had a great turnout, about 90% of guests dressed up! We incorporated a number of German wedding traditions: the log cutting, the "wedding newspaper" (as placemats), the decor, the food, group renditions of Ein Prosit, and of course the steins and lots of beer. I couldn't have been happier with the wedding, and of course with my dress! Erika did a fantastic job with it!
Photo credit https://andrewmorrell.com/
Photo credit https://andrewmorrell.com/
Photo credit https://www.romangrinev.com/
Everything turned out great and the girls and I got tons of compliments on the beautiful dresses and vest you made. THANK YOU!! Our Oktoberfest reception was tons of fun.
Photo credit https://www.romangrinev.com/
I knew I wanted to show my heritage and love for dirndls, for my wedding, just wasn’t sure exactly how because I didn't want to wear a dirndl as my wedding dress. I’m so happy I went with an elegant yet wearable bridal dirndl for my shower! Plus now I can to wear it time and time again. I get endless compliments anytime I wear it.
Photo credit https://www.shootforthestarsphotographyandstudios.com/
Words can not describe the joy I have and the honour it was to wear a dress made from such a passionate woman as yourself. You are amazing to work with and I had zero flaws with the outcome. I have attached some of the teaser photos I have received so far for your enjoyment. Going from Miss to Mrs surely does change lives perspectives. My husband cried when he first saw me walk down the aisle and later said the dress complimented me and my personality perfectly. I had nothing but endless compliments about it and I made sure everyone knew who made my dress and where they could find something for them.
Photo credit https://www.shootforthestarsphotographyandstudios.com/
Photo credit https://www.shootforthestarsphotographyandstudios.com
Photo credit http://www.rrphotographicimaging.com/
I never thought of myself as a typical bride. When looking at traditional wedding dresses, nothing jumped out at me or made me swoon over it. Ever since I was a little girl, I have been part of The Holzacker Baum, a German organization in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Being immersed in a rich culture from a young age, I wanted to share that experience with my now husband and guests at our wedding. My wedding dress had a lace overlay with a small train. Erika and Maria were able to work their magic and even added a heart from my grandmother's wedding dress on it. I also had a lace apron and they even made a tie to match for my husband. Erika and Maria were absolutely amazing to work with. I had an idea in mind, and they made it a reality.
Photo credit http://www.rrphotographicimaging.com/
Photo credit http://www.rrphotographicimaging.com/
Photo credit www.prislovskyphoto.com
The wedding was so fantastic, it was literally the perfect day!!! My dirndl was even more beautiful than I imagined.
Photo credit www.prislovskyphoto.com
Photo credit www.prislovskyphoto.com
Photographer: Reflections of Rockford
I chose to wear a wedding dirndl in order to have something custom to my heritage, as well as something that could be made just for me to make the day even more special. It was such a smooth process from start to finish and turned out exactly how I imagined! One major thing that I loved was the fact that I could take off the outer tulle skirt to have a shorter skirt for dancing and games. Plus it was so so so comfortable! Some other things we included included in our wedding were a Shotski for schnapps, and my mother praying the common table prayer in German at the start of the meal.
Photographer: Reflections of Rockford
Photographer: Reflections of Rockford
Photographer: Reflections of Rockford
Photographer: Reflections of Rockford
After 28 years together, 30 shared German Fests in Milwaukee, and a one year Covid delay; Michelle and I had our Oktoberfest themed wedding! It was so wonderful to be able to bring my German and Michelle’s Swiss heritage together into various aspects of our wedding day including the clothing, menu, décor, and music. The ceremony took place on the patio stage and was flanked by flower stands that also each had Bavarian hats covered in pins and a Swiss stein on one side and a Germany stein on the other. We celebrated afterwards in an Oktoberfest tent with everything from place cards and table signs to flags and wall banners all within the Bavarian theme.
It was so special to have the majority of our guests wearing traditional lederhosen and dirndls. Erika did a fantastic job customizing the Elegant Silver & Black dirndl to make it a beautiful Silver & Lavender wedding dirndl. She also custom designed a hat for me that perfectly matched Michelle’s dirndl. We had so much fun hoisting our liter steins and singing German drinking songs while eating giant pretzels, schnitzel & spaetzle, red cabbage, sausages & kraut, tortes, bienenstich and strudel. We were honored to have Johnny Wagner, of German Fest fame, play before the ceremony and then Lorrie & Freddy played at the reception. We danced a waltz for our first dance together followed by polkas and of course, the Fliegerlied. Our guests were all given a customized hat pin with our wedding logo to accompany some take home cookies.
It was such a beautiful day. Our “day-after honeymoon” was spent at Das Fest in Wisconsin. Originally we were supposed to go to Alaska in 2020 but we all know why that didn’t happen. The real honeymoon will be in February of 2022, when we spend 5 glorious days of massage, mani/pedis, and relaxation at Lodge Kohler in Green Bay.
Want a Custom Designed Bridal Dirndl of your own? Click here for more information
If you’re like me and grew up in the late 90s-early 2000s, then you remember when the Volkswagen New Beetle was introduced. Even as a 7-year-old, still a while away from getting a learner’s permit, I knew it was the car for me. It was bold, bright, fun, and totally different from the other cars I noticed on the road. Even Barbie had her own version of it, certifying it in my eyes as “cool”.
This dream became a reality when my cousin Emily got her first car- a 2002 bright yellow Volkswagen New Beetle. Was I jealous? Maybe a little, but I was still too young to drive and I knew sitting in the backseat (My sister Olivia always got shotgun) would be just as fun. Cruising around in the Beetle with the girls was always a blast. My favorite memory would have to be the summer we took it up to Summerfest in Milwaukee to see the Jonas Brothers, a band we were all guilty of swooning over as teenagers.
I was 19 when my mom and my aunt came to me with a huge surprise. Emily had gotten a new car, and the Beetle was officially mine! I was over the moon! How could I be so lucky as to have the car I dreamed about as a kid? That summer, my friends and I re-christened the Beetle, taking it out to the beach at midnight, pumping ridiculous playlists through its speakers, and going through the Steak-n-Shake drive thru more times than I think we want to admit.
Being a Beetle owner was a blast. Not only did I feel fabulous and confident driving it around my college campus, it made a lot of other people smile too, whether it was riding with me on the expressway when the turbo engine kicked in, or by making the comparison to a clown car in their mind.
Unfortunately, age began to catch up with the car. Repairs became more and more frequent, to the point where my mechanic was on my speed dial and the bus was my main mode of transport. Finally, this past, March, it was time to trade it in. I was devastated to give up what became sort of a family heirloom, but from both a practical & financial standpoint, it was the right choice.
Soon after the trade, I was thinking of ways I could honor the Beetle. Since it was a German car, a Dirndl designed after it would be the perfect thing to remember it by. (And a dirndl doesn’t need mechanical repairs!) My Volkswagen Dirndl is bright yellow like my Beetle, and always stands out in a crowd. It has panels on the front and back to look like racing stripes, and they are made from vegan leather, inspired by the leather interior of the car. The Dirndl features an exposed metal zipper, to add some industrial-looking detail, and rickrack on the hem to mimic the treads of a car tire. The apron has modern-looking silver ties and proudly features the Volkswagen Logo.
I debuted my Dirndl at Chicago’s Maifest, and had an amazing time wearing it and sharing stories with other Volkswagen owners that approached me with compliments and questions. Being able to create this dirndl was not only super fun, (and a bit challenging at times!) but it also ended up being very therapeutic to channel some of the stress surrounding the situation into something creative. These days I’m rolling up to German Fest in my wonderful Toyota Corolla, but when I wear Volkswagen Dirndl, I am still carrying on the tradition started by the Beetle of having carefree fun with my family and friends.
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Do you want to be the next Rare Dirndl Customer Spotlight? As the winner you will recieve a $50 Coupon Code for any online purchase, a feature on the Rare Dirndl Website and Blog, and a gift package worth approx $100!! Click here to get all the details!
]]>Scott’s last visit to Munich was in 2010, for the 200th anniversary celebration. He’d described the experience as both wild and magical. I listened carefully as he talked about sitting at the long tables in the Oktoberfest tents and bonding with strangers from all over the world, but I’d never really understood until I experienced it for myself.
We spent two days in Munich. The first was going to be spent on the fairgrounds, enjoying the carnivalesque atmosphere with shops, rides, and food stands. Unfortunately the weather had other plans. Armed with my trusty travel umbrella and my Dirndl Squad tee, we made the best of a wet situation. As we looked down on the crowd from the top of the Ferris Wheel, it was clear that the rain couldn’t put a damper on the Oktoberfest spirit.
By the time I slipped on my In Bloom dirndl the next morning, I was more than ready. We set up camp in the Paulaner Festzelt, where the Radler became my best friend. Several half Bier, half lemon-lime soda concoctions later, we’d also made friends with the pair of South Africans next to us as well as the Spaniards and Germans at the tables around us. The live bands and the steady flow of conversation made the time zoom by in a flash. As day moved into night, the music got louder and the mood became more festive. Everyone climbed up on the benches to sing along and dance the night away. Hearing thousands of people from all over the world singing John Denver’s “Take Me Home, Country Roads” at the top of their collective lungs -- in perfect English, no less -- will always be one of the most bizarre and cherished moments of my entire life.
What makes Oktoberfest special isn’t the beer. It isn’t the food or the music. It isn’t even the clothes -- although seeing so many men, women, and children decked out in their finest lederhosen and dirndls did fill my heart with joy. What makes Oktoberfest special is the sense of community that comes only from being truly welcomed by new friends, despite language barriers, cultural backgrounds, or other traits that set us apart, and feeling suddenly at home.
Jessica Rzepka Co-owner of BackyardOktoberfest.com
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Do you want to be the next Rare Dirndl Customer Spotlight? As the winner you will recieve a $50 Coupon Code for any online purchase, a feature on the Rare Dirndl Website and Blog, and a gift package worth approx $100!! Click here to get all the details!
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This photo was taken at Germanfest 2016. I attended with my husband, daughter Lorelei, parents and older brother. It was my first time wearing my brand new one-of-a-kind Rare Dirndl. I chose the orange and blue fabrics because I am a big Illini and Chicago Bears fan (I grew up in Rockford, Illinois). And I like how lightweight and comfortable it feels because the weather is always really hot at Germanfest.
My favorite thing about Rare Dirndl is knowing I am supporting a local small business operated by a female entrepreneur. And of course I appreciate the beautiful, high quality items. I also own an edelweiss bracelet and necklace, as well as a Krampus scarf, and I bought a Trachten shirt for my husband. I dream of visiting Germany someday with my family and wearing my dirndls.
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Do you want to be the next Rare Dirndl Customer Spotlight? As the winner you will recieve a $50 Coupon Code for any online purchase, a feature on the Rare Dirndl Website and Blog, and a gift package worth approx $100!! Click here to get all the details!
]]>I love all fantasy and scifi, so Star Wars has always been one of my favorite movies series. And that’s why last year on Star Wars Day, I went all out!!
]]>I wore the In Bloom Dirndl with a Black Semi Circle Skirt, Black Mini Dirndl Petticoat, Star Wars Printed Apron, soft-green chiffon blouse, Industrial Edelweiss Necklace, Black/Gray Edelweiss Wrap Bracelet, navy fleece-lined leggings, R2D2 Socks, black loafers, Chewbacca jacket.
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Ever wonder which dirndl style you are? Click here to take our quiz and find out now!
]]>"Ohh, where to start... I love my Rare Dirndls. I own a few of them from Rare. My custom, leopard print Rare Dirndl fits my feisty personality perfectly. When wearing it I feel amazing. When I wear my Rare Dirndl I notice that people look and notice me, and I shamelessly love that! I love wearing it and having multiple people come up to me and ask me questions about it and where I got it! I LOVE being able to tell them that I got it custom made for me from Rare Dirndl and that it is tailored to fit me and my personality in every way.
]]>When I bought this Rare Dirndl I was single, and now that I'm married I am still able to wear it and feel just as feisty. I just recently had my first baby, a little girl named Wilhelmina. My Dirndl fits in all the right places, while still being modest enough so that I feel comfortable wearing it around my little girl. I can’t wait until she is older and I can have a custom Rare Dirndl made for her.
Wearing a Rare Dirndl is definitely a family affair. My Mom and sister Jen also have a few Rare Dirndl’s. I love my Rare Dirndl so much that I had professional photo taken it here at a local park in Cincinnati! I included a picture of my first Labor Day trip where I got to wear it for the first time and show it off to all my favorite Schwobs. My Rare Dirndl is SO versatile! I can dress it up with a fancier blouse or with a fancier apron. I also like to accessorize with my Lederhosen bracelet or my wrap bracelet with it. It's just perfect! My leopard print Dirndl is my favorite outfit to wear at every Labor Day celebration and Oktoberfest. "
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Do you want to be the next Rare Dirndl Customer Spotlight? As the winner you will recieve a $50 Coupon Code for any online purchase, a feature on the Rare Dirndl Website and Blog, and a gift package worth approx $100!! Click here to get all the details!
]]>On July 28, 2014 on top of a volcano in Hawaii, things became really real. Brandon proposed and instead of saying "Yes!!" I let out an emotional "Thank you!" It was our first big trip together and it couldn't have been more perfect. At that moment all of our wedding ideas started to get set in motion and Kiskerfest was created.
We knew right away that we wanted to get married at Germania Park where we celebrated Oktoberfest together, that we wanted to eat Schmidt's from Columbus, Ohio and have a cream puff tower and we knew that we wanted to dance the night away with the Klaberheads. The hard part was everything else. I had such a difficult time finding a dress. It needed to be beautiful enough to be my wedding dress but fun and in the spirit of Kiskerfest and Erika was the perfect person to go to. When I found Rare Dirndl I was so excited and from our first phone call to excitedly opening the dress for the first time I knew it was the perfect match! Not only did I get the perfect dress but my bridesmaids each got a dress that perfectly matched our wedding and that I know they'll wear at Oktoberfests to come.
The actual wedding was in true Oktoberfest spirit! The ceremony was short but filled with love and emotion and the party really lived up to our Kiskerfest nickname. What I'll remember most is how much fun everyone had. Kiskerfest was about sharing our love and some of our favorite things with the people we care most about and starting off our marriage with a lot of happiness. From the food to the music and our special Lederhosen and Dirndl everything was perfect. We were able to see old friends and reunite with extended family. We danced so much our feet felt like they'd fall off at the end of the night, but in the excitement of it all everything was perfect and all those little moments will be cherished forever.
After the wedding we made the obvious choice to go to Munich where we made so many more amazing memories as husband and wife. We even donned our lederhosen and dirndl on our final day in the city. We took with us memories from our six years together, I finally was showed around the city that Brandon had so many stories from and we came back ready to live everyday as a Brandon and Rachel Kisker.
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Do you want to be the next Rare Dirndl Customer Spotlight? As the winner you will recieve a $50 Coupon Code for any online purchase, a feature on the Rare Dirndl Website and Blog, and a gift package worth approx $100!! Click here to get all the details!
]]>Emily from the Chardon Polka Band contacted me looking for something casual, modern and comfortable for her to wear while she performs with the band. We came up with a custom black and red design that is a dropped waist, knit sides for comfort and chain & edelweiss lace up front for some pizazz! After it arrived she said, "The vest fits AMAZINGLY!!!!!! I have been wearing it to all our German shows lately! Everyone loves it and gives me compliments all the time!!!!!!!!"
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What's Emily Wearing?: Custom Chardon Polka Band T-shirt, Custom made Rare Dirndl Vest, Red Wool Bavarian hat with personal collection of pins, black jeans
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Ever wonder which dirndl style you are? Click here to take our quiz and find out now!
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