There is no doubt “Dirndl” is the ideal Oktoberfest dress, but anyone visiting Germany on short notice can still alternate it with other choices. Even without dirndl, there are ways to stay close to tradition at the Beer Festival Munich by wearing women's lederhosen, trachten shorts, or skirts. 

Apart from dirndl, the easiest wardrobe for women at Oktoberfest is styling any outfit in a Bavarian style with complementing accessories. The only rule that implies the choice of attire is that it should be modest and appropriate for the Bavarian Beerfest.

Dirndl Alternatives to Wear to Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest is the celebration of all the Bavarian traditions. However, there is no strict “dirndl dress only” policy. There are many ways to appreciate the culture if one wants to skip the women's dirndl altogether. 

Traditional Oktoberfest Dressing Options Skipping Dirndl 

The wardrobe for Bavarian Beerfest is extensive. There are many ways to stick to tradition when it comes to women's outfit choices. 

1. Women Lederhosen

Lederhosen for women have become a popular outfit choice and can be seen in Beer tents and Theresienwiese as a charming alternative to the classic dirndl. Until recently, they were exclusive to men, but women have started wearing them in great numbers due to their functionality. Lederhosen for women are colorful and have more style options in terms of embroidery.

The outfit gives room to experiment with the looks. Colors like brown or tan fall into the classic palette, while shorter cuts are reserved for girls ready to take up Beerfest with their chic looks. With an elegant traditional blouse, rustic shoes, and wool socks, the Lederhosen outfits like Shirin David (German rapper and singer) will be an eye-catcher at any Oktoberfest or Bavarian cultural celebration.

2. Trachten Shorts and Gingham Blouse

The shorter version of lederhosen, also called kurz lederhosen in German, is more common among women when it comes to choosing outfits, keeping dirndl out of the question. This chic choice is bolder but liked by young girls. The best way to dress these shorts is with the white dirndl blouse or gingham shorts. 

Skip the suspender and accessorize the look with the metal clasp leather belt, boots, long stocking socks, and hat. Rabea Schif was spotted at the 188th Oktoberfest at the Käferzelt tent wearing trachten shorts, a white top, and a black blazer, cheering on a beer stein.

3. Lederhosen Skirt and Traditional Blouse

Lederhosen skirts have cuts of the skirt made out of authentic animal-sourced leather and are adorned with traditional embroidery (Edelweiss flowers). It is the perfect alternative for girls who want to look modest while staying closest to the traditions. This choice has still not made it very much to the celebrity’s wardrobe, but it is surely very balanced- traditional and trendy.

The right way to wear this non-dirndl traditional attire is by wearing a white puff-sleeved dirndl blouse or a red or blue checkered shirt. Mary Jane, or any traditional-style shoes, a braided front with loose curls, and a small leather bag (as big bags are not allowed at Oktoberfest) are the way to style this piece of clothing. 

4. Dress with the Traditional Jacket

The traditional jacket is a functional choice for the chilly Bavarian Beerfest night, especially when exploring the fairground. The Oktoberfest jackets are often richly decorated with ornate embroidery and made from rich satin, jacquard or velvet fabric. This accessory gives every outfit an authentic Bavarian look. 

Wear them over a simple dress or combine them with a skirt or jeans to incorporate traditional elements in a casual unstated way. A bun styled with the floral headband and soft glam complement this look very well- a right take on minimal fashion. 

Non-Traditional Options Instead of Dirndl

There are many trendy, non-traditional ways for women to dress up for the annual Beer festival in Munich. Ladies looking for non-traditional outfits to wear at Bavarian Beerfest can also translate “Cultural Threads, Contemporary Hearts” into their choice of outfit.  

Cocktail Midi Dress

A cocktail dress can be a modern yet contemporary option for Oktoberfest. The style, which is fitted on the upper body and flowing on the lower body, replicating the silhouette of the dirndl, is a stylish yet comfortable alternative to traditional attire. The dress in rich, festive colors like deep green, burgundy, or navy too is a nod to Bavarian traditions. 

The dresses' subtle details, such as floral embroidery, lace accents, or metallic trims, hint at the festive season. Rustic leather ankle boots, a floral headband, and a cosy shawl or cardigan are practical ways to accessorize this glam look. These accents are perfect for blending modern elegance with a festive spirit at the beer-filled celebration.

Prairie Style Maxi Dress

To alternate dirndl, a prairie-style maxi dress with a whimsical and bohemian cut is the perfect choice for Oktoberfest attire. These dresses often feature soft fabrics, floral patterns, and ruffle details that have a back-in look to them-perfect for the Bavarian celebration. These dresses reach to the ankles, fitting in the long maxi-dresses style list. 

Puffed sleeves or lace accents paired with ankle boots, a wide-brim hat, and a braided hairstyle create an effortlessly chic look. A cropped cardigan is a functional accessory that keeps warmth during cooler evenings. This romantic yet practical attire for  Oktoberfest is uniquely stylish and comfortable.

Wrapping It Up!

Around 80% of the Oktoberfest attendees are local, and 50% are women, who mostly prefer to wear dirndl. If the tracht is not an option, one can surely choose to wear something elegant and understated. Traditional Bavarian wear like lederhosen,  skirts, and shorts make the right substitute for the traditional Bavarian outfit. 

If you are someone who likes to stick to tradition by all means, grab the authentic dirndl dresses from Dirndl Delights at a steal deal!