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Attending the original Oktoberfest in Munich is an unforgettable experience, but to truly embrace the spirit of the festival, you will want to dress the part! In this guide to Oktoberfest outfits, I will cover everything you need to fit in, from traditional Lederhosen for men to elegant Dirndls for women, plus the essential accessories that complete the look. Whether you are going for authenticity or a stylish take on traditional Bavarian fashion, I have you covered with tips on what to wear—and what to avoid—so you can celebrate Oktoberfest in Munich in style!
Traditional Oktoberfest Outfits
To immerse yourself fully in the Oktoberfest spirit, consider donning traditional Bavarian attire, also known as Tracht in German, or what we know commonly refer to as Oktoberfest outfits. For men, this typically includes Lederhosen (leather shorts), a checkered shirt, suspenders, an optional waistcoat, and a hat. Women can opt for a Dirndl, which is a dress with a bodice, blouse, and apron. Dirndls and Lederhosen are the iconic Bavarian outfits that have a fun, rich history and are a big part of the local culture!
Oktoberfest Outfits for Women: Dirndls
Dirndls are traditional dresses worn by women in the Alpine regions of Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. A Dirndl typically consists of a dress, blouse, and apron. The origins of the Dirndl can be traced back to rural Bavaria and Austria in the 18th century. It was originally a practical outfit worn by working-class women, essentially a maid's dress for farm and housework. By the 1870s, however, Dirndls were all of the rage amongst the aristocracy. Instead of wearing Dirndls made from a practical fabric like wool, the Dirndls of the aristocracy were made from expensive materials, such as silk. Over time, Dirndls evolved into a symbol of traditional Bavarian and Alpine culture.
Today, Dirndls are not only worn during festive occasions like Oktoberfest, but they are also cherished as a symbol of regional pride. Dirndls can come in three different lengths: a short length (which is typically knee length), a midi length (the most common), and a maxi length (which is typically worn by older women).
Dirndls are available in a wide variety of colors, patterns, and materials. However, most blouses worn with the Dirndl are white. Occasionally, you will see black blouses, but white is the most common color. Like Dirndls, Dirndl blouses come in a huge variety of styles.
Since I am petit, I opted for the short length Dirndl and two blouses that I can easily mix and match. For two days at Oktoberfest, I felt like this was more than enough. However, if you are attending for longer, you may want to consider an extra outfit since beer will certainly be sloshed and spilled. Plus, Dirndls add to the fun of the festivities!
It is worth noting that women can also wear Lederhosen. So, if dresses are not your thing, but you still want to dress up for the occasion, Lederhosen are an option! From what I have seen, Lederhosen for women typically come in two lengths: a mid-thigh length and a longer, knee length. Women's Lederhosen, would be styled similarly to the way men wear Lederhosen, so skip down to the section on men's Oktoberfest outfits for more details!
Dirndl Undergarments & Accessories
Since the weather in Munich in September and October can be on the cooler side, I highly recommend wearing tights under your Dirndl if the weather calls for it. If you are afraid that the look of tights might clash with your outfit, know that I bought a pair of pretty thick nude-color tights that worked out great! I purchased Danskin brand tights off of Amazon since that was a brand I used to wear when I danced as a kid. However, there are plenty of other options out there too for tights from Sheertex to Wolford, Calvin Klein, Spanx, and more.
I also paired my Dirndl with a white cardigan that I already had in my closet which did a decent job of keeping me a bit warmer when I was outside. Although, to be fully transparent, I could have used a warmer jacket in the evenings, but I did not want to carry it around with me all day. The shops selling Oktoberfest outfits, both in Munich and online, carry a range of sweaters for women to pair with their Dirndl. Technically called a Trachten jacket, they are effectively a wool cardigan. While I am all about dressing the part, if you have a cardigan at home that works, there is no need to buy something else just to wear for Oktoberfest.
If the weather is warm when you visit Oktoberfest, I still recommend wearing spandex shorts or Spanx underneath your Dirndl, especially if you have a short Dirndl. The odds are pretty high that you will be standing on top of the benches in the beer tents and you do not want to flash someone, if you can avoid it anyway!
Petticoats are also commonly worn underneath a Dirndl. To be totally honest, I skipped the petticoat and it did not look like I was really missing anything underneath my outfit (at least from my perspective). So if you want to add a petticoat, by all means go for it! However, if you are looking to save space in your luggage, know that you can skip out on the petticoat too and be just fine.
Another key piece of your Dirndl is your bra! Most women will wear a push-up bra or buy an actual Dirndl bra (yes, that is a thing) so they get that signature cleavage with their Dirndl. However, Oktoberfest is a long day with a lot of drinking and dancing, so wear whatever is the most comfortable for you! If it is not too much of a TMI, I wore a cotton t-shirt bra underneath my Dirndl because that was the most comfortable option for me! In the event that you are really wanting to dress authentically, you can purchase a Dirndl bra on Amazon. It is not something that people are going to see since it is literally an undergarment, so there is no need to break the bank on an expensive one!
Dirndl Accessories
As far as accessories go, there is a lot of freedom! Feel free to play up your hair and jewelry to match your Oktoberfest outfits. A lot of German women will wear their hair in braids or add flowers to their hair for the occasion. Headbands that matched your Dirndl were also extremely popular when I went to Oktoberfest in 2023. Jewelry comes in all shapes and forms too, but some pretzel earrings make for an adorable - and festive - addition to your outfit!
Since I did not have pretzel earrings, I decided to keep it simple with classic white pearl earrings to complement my outfit. However, if you are looking for pretzel earrings, Etsy has a massive selection!
You will see a lot of women wear choker-style necklaces and even personalized pins (known as Wiesn Grupperl, they look like wooden clothespins). Charivari chains are also popular, which can be attached to the bodice of your Dirndl. However, my favorite accessory is hands down the traditional Lebkuchen heart-shaped cookie necklaces. You can purchase these all throughout Munich and they make the cutest addition to your Oktoberfest outfits. You can technically eat the Lebkuchen, but I have heard that they do not taste great, so maybe just save it for a cute accessory!
You should also definitely plan to bring a small purse to hold, at a minimum, hand sanitizer, cash, your phone, and a phone charger with you to Oktoberfest. Oktoberfest does have rules as to the size of the bag that you are allowed to bring inside the festival grounds, so make sure you stay within the limits. A purse cannot be larger than 3 liters and no bigger than 8 in. x 6 in. x 4 in. (20 cm x 15 cm x 10 cm). I highly recommend bringing a small crossbody bag—since they are easy to hold throughout the day, and you will not have to worry about setting it down. Choose one you do not mind getting a little messy, as spills are inevitable at Oktoberfest!
Oktoberfest Outfits for Men: Lederhosen
Lederhosen, which translates to "leather trousers" in German, are iconic Bavarian garments primarily worn by men. These leather shorts are often accompanied by suspenders, a checkered shirt, and occasionally a waistcoat. Lederhosen have an extensive history, dating back to the Alpine regions in the 18th century, where they were originally worn by laborers and hunters due to their durability. Like Dirndls, Lederhosen have evolved into a symbol of Bavarian and Austrian heritage and are frequently worn during traditional festivals, such as Oktoberfest.
Traditional Lederhosen are made from genuine leather, typically sourced from animals like goats or deer. The use of leather for making Lederhosen is not only for its durability but also for its suitability to the rugged lifestyle of the Alpine regions where these garments originated. Plus, leather is naturally water-repellent, making Lederhosen the perfect attire for spilled beer.
Lederhosen come in various lengths, including short, knee-length, and long styles. Short lederhosen, known as Kurze Lederhosen, typically end above the knee and are often worn for casual occasions or warmer weather. On the other hand, knee-length lederhosen, known as Kniebundhosen, extend below the knee and are considered more traditional, suitable for formal events or cooler climates. Long lederhosen, referred to as Lange Lederhosen, extend below the knee and are sometimes worn for formal or ceremonial occasions, showcasing a more traditional and conservative look. The short and knee-length Lederhosen styles are the most popular at Oktoberfest.
Traditional shirts worn with Lederhosen are called Trachtenhemd. These button-down shirts are often white or checkered, with some featuring embroidery or decorative elements. To be completely transparent, there is little need to go out and buy a shirt specifically to wear with your Lederhosen for Oktoberfest. Any long-sleeve button down shirt will do, particularly if you already have one that is checkered or plain white. At the end of the day, any nice button-down shirt is fine!
Lederhosen Accessories
The following Lederhosen accessories are completely optional, but common additions to your Oktoberfest outfits.
- Waistcoats: A traditional waistcoat known as a Trachtenweste is often worn over the shirt. These vests can be plain or embroidered and are usually made of materials like wool.
- Socks: Knee-high socks, known as Trachtensocken, are commonly worn with lederhosen. These socks can be plain, an accent color, or feature patterns such as checks or stripes. The socks are usually made of wool.
- Calf-Warmers: Calf-warmers, also known as Wadenwärmer in German, are typically made of wool and are worn with ankle socks. They can provide additional warmth, especially during cold weather or when spending long hours outdoors at Oktoberfest.
- Hats: Some men also wear hats, usually a Tyrolean hat (Tirolerhut) or a felt hat.
Buying Oktoberfest Outfits in Munich
Munich is filled with shops selling Oktoberfest outfits, including pop-up shops conveniently located inside the main train station (München hbf), making it easy to buy your attire after arriving in Munich. Additionally, some stores also offer rentals, allowing you to enjoy Oktoberfest in style without needing to purchase the full outfit to only be worn a couple of days.
If you are opting to purchase your Oktoberfest outfits in Munich before attending the festivities, keep in mind that the majority of stores are closed on Sundays in Munich. A few reputable Munich retailers that were recommended to us, but we did not use to find our Oktoberfest outfits, are listed below.
In the event that you happen to be a Bayern Munich football fan, they also sell Oktoberfest outfits in their team stores in Munich. They had everything from Dirndls to Lederhosen and accessories, with Bayern Munich colors (red, white, blue, and black) and team crest. While these were by no mean a cheap option, they were certainly a unique one in the event that you are a fan of the team! Brian ended up getting socks to wear to Oktoberfest from the Bayern Munich team store, which also ended up being a fun souvenir from the trip.
Buying Second-Hand Oktoberfest Outfits & Oktoberfest Outfits Online
There are definitely some benefits to purchasing your Oktoberfest outfits online before your trip to Munich, Germany. Shopping in advance gives you more time to find the perfect outfit, ensuring you get the right fit, style, and quality without the last-minute rush. It also allows you to compare prices across different retailers, whether you are looking for a budget-friendly option or investing in an authentic Bavarian ensemble. Plus, buying online means you can explore a wider selection of Lederhosen, Dirndls, and accessories, including second-hand finds and high-end traditional pieces that might not be available in Munich’s crowded festival shops. In this section, I will cover a few of the best online retailers for Oktoberfest outfits, including where to find great deals, high-quality craftsmanship, and even pre-loved pieces on platforms like eBay.
Oktoberfest Outfits: A Quick Note on Sizing
Keep in mind that when shopping for Oktoberfest outfits online, definitely exercise caution regarding sizing. The sizing of authentic Oktoberfest outfits differs significantly from what we are accustomed to in the United States, as most of what is sold online will be in German sizes. As such, I highly recommend that you carefully check your measurements with the size charts provided before placing an order.
Shopping for Second-Hand Oktoberfest Outfits
For those mindful of their finances, consider exploring second-hand Oktoberfest outfits, which can yield a substantial cost savings. Plus, everyone loves a sustainable queen (or king)!
I actually bought my Dirndl on eBay. It had been purchased by a tourist in Munich for a prior year's festivities, worn just once, and I was able to snag it for a mere $65.00 USD. This was a great deal, especially considering that the retail price for that same Dirndl, brand new, exceeded €200. It was technically a size too big, but I made it work! As you can see, a quick eBay search turns up quite a few options for Oktoberfest outfits, at varying price points!
If you do not have any luck with eBay, you can also check Poshmark as they had a pretty large selection of pre-owned, well-priced Dirndls and Lederhosen too.
When purchasing second-hand Oktoberfest outfits online, there are a five key things to keep in mind to ensure you get a quality piece that looks great and lasts through Oktoberfest.
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Condition of the Pieces – Carefully check the listing for details on wear and tear, such as stains, loose stitching, or fading. Lederhosen, in particular, should still have supple leather without cracks or excessive stiffness. The best second-hand pieces to buy are those that are in like-new condition!
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Included Accessories – Make sure you are getting a complete outfit. For Dirndls, confirm that the apron and any ribbon or lace-up detailing are included, as these elements are a huge component of the traditional look. If you are buying Lederhosen, check whether the suspenders (Hosenträger) are part of the purchase, as they are often sold together but not always. In the event that accessories are missing, make sure you are able to find matching ones elsewhere before placing your order.
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Sizing & Fit – Vintage pieces may have different sizing than modern equivalents, so review the provided measurements carefully and compare them to your own. Lederhosen made from real leather may have stretched slightly with previous wear, while Dirndls should fit snugly at the bodice.
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Authenticity & Quality – If you are looking for traditional craftsmanship, check for brands known for authentic Oktoberfest outfits, such as Stockerpoint, Alpenwahnsinn, or Krüger.
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Seller Reputation & Reviews – When buying from platforms like eBay or second-hand retailers, always check the seller’s ratings, reviews, and return policies. Good listings will often include detailed photos and descriptions to give you confidence in your purchase. When in doubt, message the seller with additional questions you may have to ensure you know exactly what you are getting before you place your order!
Taking the time to evaluate these factors will help you find well-made, authentic Oktoberfest outfits at a great price—so you can enjoy the festival in style!
Reputable Online Retailers for Oktoberfest Outfits
One other thing to keep in mind when buying your Oktoberfest outfits online is to steer clear of items labeled as Beer Wench, Halloween Costume, Flirty Fraulein, Bavarian Wench, Beer Girl Costume, Beer Girl Babe, and the like. It is important to remember that Dirndls and Lederhosen are cherished symbols of traditional Bavarian culture and not costumes to be worn to Oktoberfest. You can see just how cringeworthy some of the options are out there, so tread with caution!
Opting for Oktoberfest outfits that look like a costume or are considered inappropriate may cause you to stand out unfavorably or even result in being denied entry to the beer tents at Oktoberfest in Munich. Opting for authentic Oktoberfest outfits ensures you blend in seamlessly and respect the rich heritage of these traditional garments.
Traditional Online Retailers
There are plenty of reputable online retailers for traditional Oktoberfest outfits, but I definitely recommend CA Dirndl Haus from my own experience. I ended up ordering the two blouses I wore to Oktoberfest underneath my Dirndl from them and I was really pleased with their prices and shipping time! Their size charts had already been converted into inches and US sizes, so that made shopping with them a breeze.
If you are looking for some other options, Bavaria Trachten also has a great assortment of both Dirndls and Lederhosen at varying price points, with even a small selection of sale items.
When searching for Oktoberfest outfits online, be sure to verify the company's location and the origin of the shipments. From my research, a lot of Oktoberfest outfit retailers ship from Europe, which is fine, but may make returns difficult and expensive. So that is something to keep in mind, especially if you are unsure of your size! As with any online shopping, if you see prices that seem too good to be true for brand new Oktoberfest outfits, it very well could be a scam.
Amazon
While Amazon is full of bad, cheap Oktoberfest outfits, Amazon also has some great options for Oktoberfest outfits if you look carefully! With that being said, I really like the selection from Alte Liebe on Amazon. Their Dirndls are really pretty and well priced! While I have not purchased one myself, they seem to have good reviews and certainly look like authentic Oktoberfest outfits.
Other Online Retailers for Oktoberfest Outfits
We got Brian's Lederhosen online prior to our trip to Oktoberfest from the retailer, Chubbies (yes, the shorts company). Their Lederhosen typically go on sale during the summer in the lead-up to Oktoberfest, at least that is when we discovered them in 2023. While they were not the most authentic option out there, they were budget friendly and got the job done. Plus, my cousin's wife, who is originally from Munich, gave them her stamp of approval!
Chubbies is just one example, but there are plenty of retailers out there selling Oktoberfest outfits, ranging from budget-friendly options to high-quality, authentic Bavarian attire. Whether you are shopping online or visiting specialty stores in Munich, you will find a wide selection of Lederhosen, Dirndls, and accessories to suit your style and budget. Some brands focus on modern interpretations in terms of the colors and fabrics, while others offer traditional, handcrafted pieces made from premium materials like genuine leather. No matter where you shop, choosing the right outfit will help you blend in with the locals and fully enjoy the Oktoberfest experience!
Oktoberfest Outfits: Footwear
When it comes to the shoes that you pair with your Oktoberfest outfits, remember that comfort is key. When visiting Oktoberfest, you will walk and stand A LOT, so plan to leave the high heels at home! From navigating the streets of Munich on your way to the Oktoberfest grounds (or the nearest U-Bahn station) to exploring the festival itself and standing on benches in the beer tents, your feet are guaranteed to get tired.
Brian and I both opted to wear white leather sneakers with our Oktoberfest outfits since they are comfortable and able to be easily cleaned. While sneakers are not technically the traditional footwear of choice for Oktoberfest outfits, they are completely acceptable and a pretty popular option, even amongst locals. In fact, it is pretty much a guarantee that beer will be spilled at Oktoberfest, so if you want to leave your fancy leather shoes at home and opt for a pair of sneakers, by all means, do it! Adidas even designed sneakers for Oktoberfest back in 2019, proving that they really are an acceptable form of footwear for the occasion.
However, if you are looking for more traditional footwear options to match your Oktoberfest outfits, I have them listed below.
For Women (with Dirndls):
- Ballet Flats: Simple and comfortable, ballet flats in neutral colors can pair well with Dirndls, especially if you want a more relaxed look.
- Mary Janes: Mary Jane-style shoes, with their strap across the instep and low heels, are the traditional footwear choice for women wearing a Dirndl.
- Booties: A more modern footwear option, especially if the weather is cold, can be a great option for Oktoberfest.
For Men (with Lederhosen):
- Haferlschuhe: Traditional Bavarian leather shoes known as Haferlschuhe are the classic choice for men wearing Lederhosen. These shoes feature lacing and a rugged sole. They are kind of similar to a casual derby shoe.
- Trachten Boots (Trachtenstiefel): For a sturdier, more rugged look, some men choose Trachten boots—high-cut leather boots with durable soles designed for comfort and style. Think of them kind of like hiking boots, but dressier. Trachten boots can be worn by women too, although booties are far more popular.
- Loafers: If you prefer a more relaxed and modern look with your Lederhosen, you can choose loafers in a complementary color.
Regardless of what you choose to wear, ensure your footwear is weather-appropriate since Munich's weather can be unpredictable in late September and early October. Finally, comfortable and sturdy shoes are a must, as you will likely be on your feet, walking, and dancing throughout the day and night.
Where to Stay: The Best Hotels for Oktoberfest
A centrally located hotel in Munich makes it easy to change into your Oktoberfest outfits before heading to the festivities! As you begin planning your trip to Oktoberfest, I highly recommend booking your hotel accommodations early as they do fill up months in advance. A few of the of hotels that I would personally recommend in Munich are listed below.
Oktoberfest Outfits: In Summary
Dressing for Oktoberfest is more than just a fashion choice—it is a way to fully immerse yourself in the festival’s rich traditions and fun atmosphere. Whether you opt for authentic Lederhosen or a beautiful Dirndl, the right Oktoberfest outfits will help you fit right in with the locals and enhance your experience. From understanding the origins of these iconic looks to selecting the perfect accessories, shoes, and even second-hand finds, there are plenty of ways to create an outfit that is both stylish and true to tradition. No matter where you shop or how much you spend, the most important thing is to embrace the spirit of the festival, raise a stein, and enjoy the celebration in true Bavarian style! Prost! 🍻
Looking for even more information on Oktoberfest? Check out our Ultimate Guide to Oktoberfest. Need help planning your trip to Munich? We have information on that too! Read our Munich Travel Guide for things to do, hotel recommendations, and more. Happy travels!
