Designer Dirndls on the Runway: Kicking Off Chicago Fashion Week in Style

On Friday, October 18th, Rare Dirndl had the honor of kicking off the Dominican University Alumni Fashion Show as part of the return of Chicago Fashion Week. After a multi-year hiatus, this event brought together over 12 designers — spanning from the 1970s to recent graduates — to celebrate Chicago's vibrant fashion scene. As a Dominican alum, it was a full-circle moment to showcase my work alongside so many talented creators.

Why Dirndls? My Story

Before the fashion show, I attended an alumni welcome party where many people were curious about how I ended up designing dirndls. It's a story rooted in heritage and passion for the German-American community. Since 1990, I've been a member of the American Aid Society of German Descendants, and in 2001, when I joined the Jugendgruppe, I found my home. As a Donauschwaben descendant, I've always felt deeply connected to the people, traditions, and culture.

After graduating from design school, I noticed a glaring gap in the American dirndl market. While German designers were innovating with fresh, modern, edgy designs, the options available here felt outdated and uninspired. I knew I could create something better — and that's how Rare Dirndl was born. My designs aim to blend traditional Bavarian heritage with contemporary fashion, creating pieces that honor the past while looking forward to the future.

Over the years, competition has grown with the rise of online retailers like Amazon, eBay, and German companies shipping directly to the U.S. But Rare Dirndl continues to stand out because of our customer service, attention to detail, and one-of-a-kind designs. Each piece is inspired by unique themes, bringing a bold statement beyond just a "traditional dress." Rare Dirndl isn't just about fashion — it's about creating confidence, individuality, and a fresh take on a centuries-old tradition.

The History and Significance of the Dirndl

The dirndl dress boasts a rich history dating back to the 16th century in the Alpine regions of Germany and Austria. Originally designed as a practical garment for everyday wear, the dirndl has evolved significantly over the centuries — from simple utilitarian workwear to a cherished traditional dress for special occasions. Today, the dirndl is not only a fantastic choice for Oktoberfest celebrations but also a way to honor and preserve cultural heritage through fashion.

What I Wore: A Nod to My Story

For the fashion show, I wanted my outfit to reflect my personal journey and the meaningful experiences that have shaped my work. I wore my Little Black Dirndl, paired with a high-neck, cap-sleeve heavy-weight lace blouse from Limberry for a sleek, modern look. Over the dirndl, I added an African wax print skirt I picked up last year at a market in New Orleans during a Being Boss retreat. The bold print and vibrant colors caught my eye from across the market and immediately took me back to my study abroad trip to Ghana, where I first fell in love with the textile industry. Dominican University gave me the opportunity to travel to Ghana and learn about its rich textile traditions, so it felt incredibly fitting to wear this skirt as a tribute to that life-changing experience.

Adding to the family connection, my son wore a shirt I made back in 2011 for my godson, which now fits him perfectly. It was such a special touch to see him wearing something I created years ago, bringing my journey full circle on this meaningful night.

A Spotlight on the Runway Looks

Rare Dirndl hit the runway with six designs, blending fan favorites with a sneak peek at upcoming pieces:

• The Winter Dirndl and Autumn Dirndl (available now on the website)
• The Dragon Rider Vest, debuting as part of the Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros launch
• The Weaver of the Woods Dirndl, with its crinkle chiffon overlay skirt and a stunning floral and feather headpiece — which truly stole the show
• The Loralei Dirndl, offering inspiration for the 2025 collection
• The Wildflower Dirndl, debuting in early spring 2025

Styling these pieces was an absolute dream. The 2025 collection is inspired by German folklore creatures and high-fantasy vibes, which gave me so much creative freedom to push the designs into high-fashion territory. I reimagined the Autumn Dirndl with a Krampus-inspired twist, gave the Winter Dirndl an ethereal elf-like feel, and leaned into a "bigger is better" runway aesthetic for the headpieces — channeling my inner Alexander McQueen.

A Powerful Statement on the Runway

The styling was all about embracing power and confidence through traditional Bavarian fashion. Dirndls may be rooted in folk festivals like Oktoberfest, but I wanted these looks to go beyond tradition. My goal was to make the models feel like strong, commanding women — each outfit making a bold statement with intricate detailing, high-fashion headpieces, and a dash of fantasy magic.

The Dragon Rider Vest added a bold, badass vibe to the lineup (because let's be honest — it just is badass). Meanwhile, the Weaver of the Woods Dirndl earned the most buzz, with its layered textures and stunning headpiece that pulled the entire look together.

The Feedback That Keeps Me Inspired

The show was a whirlwind of excitement, and the feedback I received afterward meant the world to me. Hearing congratulations from peers in the fashion industry and seeing the pride in my former Dominican professors' faces was unforgettable. After 15 years of running Rare Dirndl, their acknowledgment of my work — and juggling it all while raising two kids — was deeply validating.

The models' reactions were equally heartwarming:

• "I just feel like a princess."
• "I would wear this all the time."
• "Damn, this is badass."
• "These are made so well!"

Moments like these remind me why I started Rare Dirndl: to create pieces that empower the wearer and make them feel incredible.

See the Looks for Yourself

You don't have to wait to add a bit of runway magic to your wardrobe. The Winter Dirndl and Autumn Dirndl are already available on the website, and you can order the Dragon Rider Vest as part of the Onyx Storm launch. Want to stay updated on the rest of the collection? Join the email list to be the first to know when new designs like the Wildflower Dirndl drop!

Fashion week may have been just one night, but the inspiration and energy from that runway will stay with me for years to come.