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Just because you're wearing a dirndl doesn't mean you're confined to the traditional look. Swap the blouse, change the apron, ditch the Mary Janes — here are 5 easy ways to make your dirndl fit your personality.

2020 marked the 10 year anniversary of the creation of Rare Dirndl and as its founder, I, Erika Neumayer Ehrat was really proud, to hit that milestone. But, I might be even more proud to say that we’re still here after 2020! Since the start of Rare Dirndl in 2010, a lot has changed while much has also stayed the same.

If you are a parent of small children, then you probably have had one of these songs stuck in your head for hours… if not days (ask me how I know zis) 

• Sesame Street: “The Letter of the Day”
• Intro song to Paw Patrol
• Bubble Guppies: “It’s time for lunch”
• Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: “Hot Dog Song”

This post isn’t going to necessarily rid your mind of these unfortunately catchy tunes, but at least it’ll bring in a little more variety. 

Well folks... after being a Dirndl designer for over 16 years and having been told countless times that I need to go to Munich for Oktoberfest... I have officially been...

Oktoberfest 2026 is bringing some serious dirndl energy. Here's what's trending this year — and what's finally making its comeback.

What shoes should you wear with a dirndl? From traditional Mary Janes to ankle boots and sneakers, here are the best Oktoberfest shoes for comfort and style.

My grandmother taught me how to sew. I didn't know at the time that those afternoons would turn into a business... but thirteen years later, Rare Dirndl landed on WGN Evening News. Here's the story behind the studio on North Lincoln.

 

A look back at my Chicago winter wedding and how I brought German heritage into the day in a way that felt natural, personal, and wearable. From designing my own dress to turning it into a party dirndl for the reception, this is the honest story behind what I wore and why it mattered.

Rare Dirndl kicked off Chicago Fashion Week in a big way at the Dominican University Alumni Fashion Show. Featuring six stunning designs inspired by German folklore and fantasy, the collection brought bold, high-fashion energy to the runway. From the Dragon Rider Vest to the show-stopping Weaver of the Woods Dirndl, this show celebrated tradition, creativity, and the power of confident women.

Who is Krampus, really? The legend of the horned companion of St. Nikolaus, what happens on Krampusnacht, why the Church couldn't get rid of him, and how he got famous in America.

The best Krampus gifts for 2026... Krampus shirts, the new Krampus Toile Scarf, ornaments, candles, a Krampus book for kids and more for the folklore fan on your list.

Christmas is “the most wonderful time of the year” and I can’t stress enough how excited I am to experience this beautiful season once again! It’s so great to gather with family, have some delicious food and share gifts together. I was thinking about traditions that we have in our family, and how they are a mix of German and American. There are some big (and little) differences between the two cultures and how Christmas is celebrated… so let’s take a look!