what to wear to Oktoberfest 2025 – a Clothing Guide for beginners
Oktoberfest isn’t a festival—it’s a Bavarian celebration, and dressing the part is half the fun! Unlike other festivals, acing the Oktoberfest dress code is simple and oh-so-rewarding.
Imagine this: 90% of partygoers in the beer halls are sporting traditional costumes, from refined dirndls to rough-around-the-edges lederhosen, all part of the classic Tracht look. But what do you actually wear?
Whether you’re a woman styling a dirndl, a man dressing up in lederhosen, or accessorizing with alpine-inspired flair, we’ve got you covered. Say goodbye to the thoughts ‘what to wear’ conundrum and hello to maintaining the festival’s authenticity while looking effortlessly festive.
Let’s get into the ultimate guide to Oktoberfest fashion—because dressing up is just as important as raising your stein!
Quick Recap
Men’s Style: Rock traditional lederhosen suspenders or belts, accompanied by a checkered shirt and stylish accessories for the classic Bavarian look.
Women’s Fashion: Slay in a dirndl dress, from classic vintage to contemporary versions, with aprons, blouses, skirts, and fashionable accessories.
Real Vibes: Dressing up in lederhosen or a dirndl is the best way to absorb Oktoberfest’s age-old traditions!
Oktoberfest Clothing History
Lederhosen and dirndls began as 18th-century Alpine work clothes but developed into symbols of Bavarian identity. By the 19th century, they were party wear, combining tradition with contemporary fashion. Now, they’re the centerpiece of Oktoberfest, honoring centuries of culture and heritage.
official dress code to Oktoberfest 2025?
Oktoberfest style combines tradition and innovation! Although 79% of the locals proudly wear Trachten such as lederhosen and dirndls, there is no strict dress code, leaving room for innovative variations and self-made casual wear. With time, modern substitutes have become popular, with visitors mixing self-made casual wear or introducing innovative variations to be noticed in the crowd.
Men’s dress code for Oktoberfest
Men’s Oktoberfest fashion is all about classic tradition with a dash of rugged appeal! The tar of the show is the Lederhosen, French-style leather breeches that are renowned in Southern Germany. Crafted from real leather for maximum comfort, these breeches are usually worn with suspenders, a white checkered shirt, and brown Haferl boots. Although less complicated than women’s, the best option is a genuine brown Lederhosen, providing a timeless yet functional appearance.
Lederhosen
The knee-high leather shorts with genuine leather material is the Lederhosen. The comfy and long-lasting leather makes it an ideal outfit for the weather in Munich and Wiesn’s wild parties.
The key features of lederhosen
- A side knife pocket
- Alpine Embroidery
- Adjustable waistband
- Suspenders
Different Lederhosen Style
There are Lederhosen in almost all kinds, each boasting a special allure. The following are the most favored varieties among them:
- Deerskin Lederhosen: A high-quality, indulgent option that portrays sophistication and poise.
- Goatskin Lederhosen: Extremely tough and affordable, ideal for those who want quality without the high price tag.
- Cowhide Lederhosen: Due to their durability, cowhide is the best choice for withstanding outdoor wear and tear.
The Oktoberfest leather breeches come in long and short lengths to suit all ages and tastes:
- Lederhosen: These are short leather pants that extend above the knee and are the most popular with the younger crowd and are quite a common sight during Oktoberfest.
- Kniebundhosen (or Bundhosen): The most commonly worn style, these leather pants go to the knee or just below and give an everlasting and versatile look for the revellers.
Common Colors of Lederhosen
Lederhosen are available in traditional hues such as brown, gray, black, and green, and they provide enduring Bavarian style. Today’s trends involve two-toned breeches with washed gray, black, and brown shades, combining tradition and modern style.
Lederhosen Accessories
To complete the Lederhosen look, various accessories are added to enhance the traditional Tracht for Oktoberfest. The accessories include
1. Traditional Trachten Shirt
When it is a matter of pairing a shirt with Lederhosen, two usual options are available: a plain white or off-white shirt for a neat and stylish appearance, or a colored checkered shirt for a more lively and traditional style. The plain white shirt presents a clean and refined look, whereas colored shirts, usually manufactured from high-quality cotton or linen, provide aeration, ease, and strength with the specifications of embroidery and horn buttons.
2. Casual T-shirts
For a less formal and trendy version of the classic Lederhosen appearance, casual Lederhosen T-shirts are also a popular option. With a range of colors and designs to choose from, these T-shirts provide flexibility and comfort without sacrificing the spirit of Oktoberfest. Most incorporate whimsical features such as embroidery, printed motifs, or humorous Oktoberfest slogans, which can add a personality touch to your outfit.
3. Lederhosen Suspenders
To finish the classic Lederhosen appearance, suspenders (or braces) form a vital component of men’s attire. These German leather braces not only ensure the pants fit firmly but also dd a touch of authenticity, usually coming with the same detailed embroidery as the Lederhosen.
They may either be directly attached to the trousers or attached through buttons, with popular styles including X-Style, H-Style, and Y-Style.
4. Bavarian Belt
For those who want a high-end alternative to take their Lederhosen style to the next level, authentic Bavarian belts with solid metal buckles are a necessity. The belts usually have elaborate designs, such as Alpine mountains, stags, or deer motifs, which bring a rustic touch of elegance. Most also have motifs like regional emblems, family crests, or hunting scenes, reflecting the rich history and craftsmanship of Bavarian culture.
5. Waistcoat
The classic waistcoat, the signature item of Oktoberfest wear, is made from natural fabrics such as wool, linen, or leather for long-lasting use and comfort. Having a V-neckline, the jacket is fastened with five buttons along the front and two or three lower front pockets for functionality as well as style.
6. Alpine Hat
The Bavarian hat, known as the Alpine hat or the Tyrolean hat, is an iconic accessory for the Oktoberfest celebration. These typically green felt hats with decorative pins offer a nostalgic charm to any outfit. Referred to sometimes as the Gamsbart hat, it comes in universal leather colors and has a characteristic brim with a tuft of goat hair, feathers, or a brush of animal hair/bird feathers.
7. Haferl Shoes
Haferl shoes, a standard for the Oktoberfest dress code, are both stylish and comfortable. Created out of genuine deerskin, Haferl shoes feature standard brown or black colors that work well with the traditional Lederhosen attire. Renowned for the side lace closure, Haferl shoes typically consist of Alpine-style motifs and ornamented detailing to give an elegant touch of Bavarian craftsmanship.
8. Socks
No Oktoberfest wardrobe would be complete without the ideal cable-knit Bavarian socks. Two traditional versions are on offer: the two-piece calf warmers known as “Loferl” socks, and the single knee-high stocking variety. In rich earth colors such as white, gray, blue, or black, they are usually adorned with beautiful knitted patterns on the trims, which add a touch of Bavarian whimsy. Loferl socks, made usually from wool mixes, are not only old-fashioned but also convenient, keeping one warm and cozy throughout the celebrations.
Dress Code for Women
The formal Oktoberfest women’s dress code is all about the classic Bavarian Dirndl. Originally, a Dirndl was worn as a casual daily outfit by the Alpine people.Hence an ideal selection to celebrate Oktoberfest. Featuring a
- Tight bodice
- Full puffy skirt
- Apron
- Blouse
Dirndl
The Bavarian Dirndl is available in different forms, providing numerous styles, sizes, and materials to cater to each individual’s choice. From light and airy materials such as linen to more expensive materials like silk or velvet, the material chosen is instrumental in determining the overall appearance of the Dirndl. Common design varieties are:
- Lace-up front bodice.
- Front zipped and Side zipped.
- Conservative neckline.
1. Blouse
The Dirndl blouse (Bluse), which is worn underneath the bodice, is an integral part of the traditional Bavarian dress. Usually cut above the midriff, it suits the Dirndl’s fitted style. In traditional designs, the blouse has a high neckline at the throat base, providing a demure appearance, whereas newer versions have
- V-shaped
- Teardrop closed collar
- Balconette
- heart-shaped necklines for a more modern look.
They are made of cambric, linen, cotton, chiffon, or lace materials and combine comfort with sophistication. White or black is the most sought-after color, sometimes complemented with short puff sleeves for a cute effect.
2. Skirt
The Dirndl skirt is the defining element of the classic Bavarian dress, characterized by its full length with folds sewn up at the waist, providing a flattering and feminine fit. It exists in three different lengths, catering to the varying inclinations and needs of the time and situation:
- Mini Dirndl: Just above the knee hem length of about 50-60 cm, this young’s style provides unobstructed movement and is ideal for showing your legs. It is best suited to shorter women or those seeking a fun, contemporary look.
- Midi Dirndl: Coming up to 65 cm in length, it’s knee length or just below that, providing just the right fusion of tradition and modern styles. It’s by far the favorite, worn by 85-90% of the female attendants of Oktoberfest.
- Maxi Dirndl: Lengthy at 90 cm, this classy design falls below the knees, occasionally even reaching the ankles. Customarily selected by mature women, the Maxi Dirndl radiates refinement and formality, rendering it an evergreen choice for an ageless, classic appearance.
3. Bodice
The bodice is a main component of the classic Bavarian outfit, tightly fitting to show off the silhouette. It’s constructed as one piece and fastened with buttoned, hooked, zipped, or laced, with sometimes a side or back zip for convenience.
While earlier bodices were constructed of thick black cotton for practicality, newer ones are crafted with more sophisticated materials such as silk, velvet, or linen, often adorned with fashionable prints, combining old and new styles.
4. Apron
The Dirndl apron is a delightful and practical element of the Bavarian costume, made in many different fabrics and with ruffles, lace edgings, or embroidery for added sophistication. It is usually included as part of the Dirndl costume and serves a special function in indicating a woman’s marital status by where its bow is tied:
- Knot on the Right: Married or relationship.
- Knot on the Left: Single and available.
- Knot in the Center: Young/virgin or underage.
- Knot in the Back: Married but widowed, or a waitress staff.
Trending Colors and Patterns
- Jewel-toned Dirndls in vintage brown, golden yellow, and midnight blue are ageless and suitable for any time of the year
- Soft pastel hues such as rose pink, powder blue, and mint green are favorites among young women for a contemporary look.
- Trendy Patterns: Gingham checks, chevrons, and houndstooths are trendy patterns that give Dirndls a playful yet sophisticated touch, making them a standout at Oktoberfest.
Accessories to Pair with Dirndls
As with the Dirndl or women’s Lederhosen, the ensemble is incomplete without the proper accessories. Jewelry, footwear, a handbag, or even suspenders (for Lederhosen) are needed to complete the look.
1. Dirndl Shoes
For footwear at Oktoberfest, comfort and fashion go hand in hand. Sneakers, block-heel sandals, or boots are all great options that fit perfectly for the celebration. Sneakers provide comfort throughout the day for dancing and walking, and block-heel sandals bring in a little glamour without losing stability. Boots, meanwhile, bring a more rustic yet fashionable choice, particularly for cold weather.
2. Traditional Dirndl Socks
When styling your Dirndl, stockings are a great choice, especially if you’re wearing a mini Dirndl. For a polished look, opt for skin-toned or white stockings with a bow on top that coordinates with the bow on your Dirndl apron. If you’re wearing a midi or maxi-length Dirndl, shorter socks are a more suitable and comfortable option.
3. Crossbody Bags and Purse
A leather bag with embroidery along the front and a neat strap is the ideal accessory to take an Oktoberfest outfit to new heights.
4. Jewelry
Adding contemporary jewelry to accessorize your Oktoberfest outfit can help bring your outfit to the next level. Add a special touch to your getup with an Edelweiss necklace or a whimsical pretzel pendant, both bringing a celebratory Bavarian touch. Themed earrings, including dainty pretzel or Edelweiss details, provide the perfect touch, while pearl or diamond stud earrings provide a delicate yet chic choice.
Modern alternatives to the Dirndl
Lederhosen can be used as a fashion-forward and untraditional alternative to a Dirndl, providing a gender-neutral attire option that’s ideal for Oktoberfest festivities, particularly at Wiesn. Contemporary versions of Lederhosen are created to fit through the hips and thighs, giving a sleek and modern look. The 3 featured components are
- checkered blouses
- knee-high socks
- traditional shoes
Traditional Clothing for Kids
Children’s Lederhosen are made of sturdy leather and normally have fun patterns such as animals and flowers, so they are both tough and cute for children. In little girls, the Dirndl turns into a cute miniature version of the classic dress, with children’s Dirndls coming in bright, funky colors and fun designs.
Where to Buy Oktoberfest Clothing?
It is simple to access Oktoberfest wear in stores as well as on the internet, with numerous types of styles to select from. Online retailers specifically have a broad range of apparel for men, women, and children, merging classic and contemporary designs to match every preference. Whether it’s for genuine Lederhosen, refined Dirndls, or fun kids’ clothing, buying online offers competitive prices and convenience, making it easier than ever to dress for the celebrations in style.
Final Words
Whether you’re donning a traditional dirndl, rocking modern lederhosen, or adding Bavarian flair to your everyday outfit, dressing up is a fun and meaningful part of the Oktoberfest experience. So, grab your Oktoberfest apparel, raise your stein, and celebrate in style! Prost.
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