The Importance Of Dirndls In Oktoberfest

by Daniel D'souza german-lederhosen Many people know that Dirndls and Lederhosen are the national dress of Germany. It’s because of traditional festivals, specifically Oktoberfest, where these dresses are a vital part of the occasion. There are also many modern Trachtenverein (traditional costume clubs) in Germany, which are huge for maintaining this tradition. Although these traditional ensembles (both Lederhosen and Dirndls) are originally Bavarian costumes, Bavaria now accepts itself as a part of Germany which allows for a unified culture.

The History of Dirndls:

Traditionally, Bavarian people were countrymen who often farmed on their lands while doing other manual labor intensive jobs. The women, who also took care of the family by cooking, cleaning and working in the fields, developed a dress which was just perfect for their daily chores. The Dirndl Dress, which was derived from the word “Dirndlgewand” that means "maid's dress", is a costume worn by domestic workers from the 18th and 19th century. Dirndls consist of a full skirt with apron, puff sleeves and blouse with corset, often an ideal combination for a working lady.

When the dirndl designed it was not intended to be particularly fashionable, rather it qas intended to be practical for working women, who is laboring hard all day either at home or in a field. With time, things have changed. After World War II, when Germany went into a new phase of transformation, some Bavarian descendants thought it is their tradition to wear such dresses and thus began flaunting these dresses for women as a fashion wear.

Oktoberfest and Dirndls Dress:

Oktoberfest is considered one of the most important traditional festivals of Germany. The popularity of this fest fetches huge tourist crowds from abroad and often seems to increase the popularity of these traditional costumes among the people participating in Oktoberfest.

If you ask a member of Trachtenverein about the importance of Dirndls Dress, many will proudly explain the custom and the designs associated with this dress with its phases of transformation. In present days, these traditional costumes are sometimes even laced with different jewelries, expensive fabric and even decorated metal plates symbolizing the social-economic status of the family or the person.

Today in the open and culturally enriched society of Germany, the younger generation is experimenting on the traditions with traditional wears and accessories. One can experience huge ornamental changes to these Bavarian dresses at Oktoberfest and other traditional festivals across Germany. Germany and especially the Bavarian region is still holding its traditions high with such traditional wear.

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Created on Mar 23rd 2018 01:39. Viewed 692 times.

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