What to wear to Oktoberfest?

In spite of recent, popular trends, traditional women's attire for Oktoberfest is relatively conservative in nature. The key feature is the “dirndl, ” a type of traditional dress with an apron worn over it. Traditional dirndls extend to a woman's ankles, but other lengths are also available.

1. Wear a peasant-style blouse called a “trachtenbluse.” Don't choose anything with buttons, and try to avoid blouses with decorative designs. Traditional blouses are relatively high-cut, but a low-cut peasant blouse may also work if you feel like being a bit daring.
2. Wear the dirndl over the blouse. A dirndl is a specific type of dress that consists of a full skirt and a low, sleeveless top similar to what you would find on overalls. It is meant to be worn over a blouse. Many have a bodice-like design on the top, but some do not. Traditional dirndl dresses are tailored and frequently made of hand-printed material, so they can be expensive.
3. If you cannot afford a traditional dirndl, mimic the look with separate skirt and bodice.
   • Pick out a cotton A-line or circle skirt. Choose one in black, red, dark green, brown, or sky blue. The skirt should be knee-length to floor-length, with the most traditional option being the long floor-length skirt.
   • Wear a laced-up bodice over your blouse. Authentic bodices are made of velvet or felt. If you can find a bodice with thick straps that go over your shoulder, that would mimic the look of a traditional dirndl best.
4. Tie an apron, or “pinafore, ” over your skirt. The apron must match the length of the skirt.
5. If you wear nylon stockings, go with a nude color that matches your skin tone.
6. Add a pair of white knee-high stockings or socks over your nylons or in place of them.
7. Choose a comfortable pair of loafers, clogs or Mary-Jane style shoes in black or dark brown. Flats and low-heeled shoes are preferable to high-heels.