Welcome to my (relatively) new site with all things dirndl related! I’m so happy you’re here and are interested in learning more.
So, exactly what is a dirndl?
The classic ensemble is the fashionable version of folk wear in the Bavaria, Germany and Austria regions of Europe.
The “fashion” part is important to understand. The dirndl’s overall design is directly inspired by the traditional folk wear as developed in the early 19th Century, but because it is the fashion interpretation, people outside of the region and even those without any Germanic heritage can enjoy its style and have fun in the making and wearing.
Basically, a dirndl is a jumper dress with fitted bodice with attached skirt. The included apron is a requirement to the dirndl and is what sets the dress apart AS a dirndl. Under the bodice is worn a blouse that can be frequently washed and is meant for keeping the bodice clean. (I’ll go more in-depth on dirndl design in another post.)
I’ve done a deep dive down the rabbit hole of dirndls for over two years now. Every week since has had some sort of research on this fun clothing. And yes, it IS clothing which can be worn for every day or reserved for special occasions. The flexibility is all there!
The design possibilities are truly limitless!
- If you like sewing cotton and linen – you’ll love dirndl making.
- If you like floral prints – dirndls are lovely.
- If you love Victorian in its layers of trims and fantastic variety of fabrics and colors – you’ll LOVE dirndl sewing.
- Like vintage dressing? The mid-20th Century erupted with loads of dirndl designs.
- If you are into HistoryBounding, dirndls can make a good, everyday base.
- Want to include pop culture into your wardrobe? Dirndls can be wonderfully manipulated to reflect your interests. (I’m itching to make a Hufflepuff dirndl.) 😉
- Are you plus-size, tall, short, full-figured, thin, curvy, not-curvy, young, old, teenager, middle-aged, and all the rest of descriptive body types? A dirndl is PERFECT for you! Truly!
Come with me on a marvelous journey of sewing pretty dirndl ensembles! This site will be the stepping stone for your imagination. A little bit of research and your creativity will soar. I’m so excited to see your projects!!
P.S. A complete, in-depth dirndl sewing course (online) is in the works. I’m currently in production of a 10 lesson plus 4 bonus lesson class – in English – to share the love of dirndl making. It will be found at the Historical Sewing School and is planned for a late April/early May 2020 release. However, enjoy this blog site and the plenty of resources you’ll find here. Welcome!