Oktoberfest is a legendary beer festival in Munich, a celebration of Bavarian culture, food, and, of course, beer! If you are heading to this iconic festival in Munich, the next question you will ask is, “What should I wear to Oktoberfest?”. This guide will ensure you are prepped with what to wear to Oktoberfest in Munich for fun, function, and a touch of tradition.
Munich is one of our favorite cities to visit in Europe. Seth and I went to our first Oktoberfest together in 2018, and he had already attended multiple beer festivals in Munich at that point. While some things have changed slightly over the years, the attire and atmosphere of the festival remains the same each year. So get ready to raise some steins, and let’s get packing for an unforgettable Oktoberfest experience!
What to Wear to Oktoberfest: Women’s Oktoberfest Outfits
Traditional Dirndl
Embrace the spirit of Oktoberfest by wearing a dirndl! This traditional dress is more than just clothing; it’s a way to connect with the Bavarian culture and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere. You’ll be surrounded by women in beautiful dirndls, and wearing one yourself will ensure you feel like part of the celebration. It’s a classic look that adds a new layer of fun to your Oktoberfest experience.
Where to get your Dirndl for Oktoberfest
The best place to purchase your Dirndl for Oktoberfest is in Munich! Investing in a high-quality Dirndl is a fantastic way to commemorate your trip and embrace the local culture. Many shops offer expert advice to ensure a perfect fit and style that compliments you. These Dirndls are crafted with superior materials and designed to last for years.
My first time going to Oktoberfest, I purchased a dirndl from a shop in Marienplatz (a must-visit in Munich) after drinking a couple of steins at Hofbräuhaus. My friend and I had so much fun shopping for our dirndls and trying different fits! It is all a part of the overall Oktoberfest experience in Munich.
If your European itinerary extends beyond Munich, some shops will allow you to rent a Dirndl for the festival. If you are traveling to other cities in Europe and don’t want bulky luggage, this allows you to experience the festival in full attire without committing to a full purchase. Keep in mind that you will likely spend the same amount of money renting the dress as you would purchasing one, but this may make sense for you depending on your travel schedule.
Read how to pack in a carry-on bag for international travel here!
For those who prefer to shop ahead, there are reputable online retailers offering authentic Dirndls. If you opt for this, please make sure that it doesn’t look like a Halloween costume. There is a clear difference between a Halloween store dirndl and an authentic German outfit.
What to wear with your dirndl
Traditional Blouse: A traditional shirt underneath your dirndl will elevate your overall look. When I last purchased my dirndl in Munich for Oktoberfest, it did come with a shirt to wear underneath and there will be options available to buy. With that said, that may not always be the case. Choosing a blouse in advance ensures the perfect fit and complements your dirndl beautifully. It’s a simple way to feel confident and complete your authentic Oktoberfest look.
Lace Edge socks: Lace-edged socks are an easy way to accessorize and take your Oktoberfest look to the next level! Choose a height that matches your style – ankle, knee-high, or thigh-high lengths, perfect for showing off some leg or adding a peek of lace under your Dirndl.
Accessories: Braids, bows, or a flower crown adds the perfect touch of whimsy to complete your Oktoberfest ensemble. These accessories are a great way to personalize your festival look! Accessories, like flower crowns, are available to purchase at the festival.
Dirndle bra or low-cut bra: To complement the lower neckline of a dirndl, consider a balconette or plunge bra. These styles offer lift and support while creating a flattering silhouette that works well with the traditional cut of the dress. By no means is it necessary to wear this type of bra with your dress!
What to wear to Oktoberfest: Regular Clothes
If wearing a Dirndl isn’t right for you, no problem! Lederhosen and dirndls are not mandatory. Oktoberfest is all about having fun, and you can absolutely enjoy the festival in regular clothes. A casual fall outfit like jeans and a cozy sweater are perfect for navigating the crowds and cooler Munich weather. A simple dress with a jacket is another comfortable option.
If you are feeling festive, pair a gingham shirt with your favorite pants or a skirt to add a touch of Bavarian flair without a full dirndl. Hill House also has some gorgeous styled dresses that will blend in the festival attire!
Women’s Ruffle Peplum Gingham Top
Hill House Louisa Nap Dress
Hill House Ellie Nap Dress
What shoes to wear to Oktoberfest
Comfort is key at Oktoberfest. Nobody will critique your footwear when the entire tent raises a stein in a toast. You’ll be too busy clinking glasses, singing along, and making memories to care about shoe style! There are plenty of stylish shoe options that will be perfect for dancing on the benches.
Here are some comfy and cute shoe picks to pair with your dirndl:
Classic White Sneakers: These versatile travel shoes are a win-win. They’ll add a casual touch to your dirndl and keep your feet happy all day. Plus, they’ll double as your everyday walking shoes throughout your Europe trip. Here is a complete list of the best white sneakers for travel!
Allbirds Tree Runners
PUMA 2.0 Sneaker
VEJA V10 Sneaker
Reebok Women’s Classic Sneaker
Doc Martens: Doc Martens are a fall and winter travel staple. They will pair perfectly with your Oktoberfest outfit and with everything else that you pack for your European adventure. Plus, German weather tends to be unpredictable. Doc Martens offer a stylish solution for a rainy day!
Boston Clog Birkenstock: These are another versatile shoe option that will look great with a Dirndl. Add a pair of knee-high socks to complete this unique take on Oktoberfest footwear.
Traditional Brown Clogs: Traditionally, a dirndl would be paired with a pair of classic brown clogs. Many locals wear shoes similar to these. Make sure to choose a pair that you can comfortably wear for extended periods.
Remember, the most important thing is to choose shoes that keep you comfortable and confident as you celebrate!
What to Wear to Oktoberfest: Men’s Oktoberfest Outfits
Lederhosen
The traditional outfit for men to wear to Oktoberfest is a lederhosen! While in Munich, you’ll see many folks sporting these festive leather breeches. Embrace the tradition and invest in the traditional outfit to fully immerse yourself in the Oktoberfest experience.
Where to purchase your lederhosen for Oktoberfest?
Once again, the best place to purchase your lederhosen is in Munich! Local shops sell a wide selection of high-quality, traditionally-made lederhosen that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. These aren’t just costumes – they’re crafted pieces built to last for years. Seth wore his first lederhosen to 25 beer festivals over 8 years!
How to find the perfect fit for your lederhosen
A lederhosen is traditionally made from genuine leather, which will stretch and conform to your body over time. However, it’s important to choose a pair that feels snug but comfortable when you first try them on. A good rule of thumb is to leave a finger-width gap between the leather and your leg at the thigh. The experienced staff at Munich’s shops can also help you find the perfect fit for your body type!
Pro-tip: Many traditional shops in Munich might not accept credit cards, so be sure to ask the salesperson before finalizing your purchase. This way, you will know if you need to run to a nearby ATM.
What to wear with your lederhosen
Button down shirt: You will need to wear a shirt underneath your lederhosen. You can either pack your own and bring it to Munich, or there will be shirts available to purchase in the local shops. Choose a checkered pattern in red, blue, or green for a Bavarian flair. A plain white shirt also works well for a more understated look!
Wool socks: Wool socks that reach mid-calf or knee-high are the most traditional choice to complete your Oktoberfest look. These are readily available for purchase in Munich, but you can also pack your own beforehand. For easy and affordable shopping, consider checking out H&M in central Munich—they often have a good selection of Oktoberfest accessories.
What shoes to wear with your lederhosen
Lederhosen pairs best with brown or neutral-colored dress shoes. This creates a polished look that complements the traditional Bavarian style. Loafers or boots are all great options—choose what is most comfortable for all-day wear and matches your personal style!
Can men wear regular clothes to Oktoberfest?
The short answer is yes! If you do not have luggage space or the budget to purchase lederhosen, no worries. Plenty of people attend Oktoberfest in regular clothes. Comfort is key for a day of festival fun, so choose clothes you can move around in and celebrate in.
If you want to still dress in the Oktoberfest spirit, a classic checkered button-down shirt paired with jeans or chinos is a simple way to join the festive spirit. You’ll find many people sporting this casual nod to tradition.
Ultimately, the most important thing is to feel comfortable and have fun! Oktoberfest is about celebrating with friends and enjoying the lively atmosphere. So wear what makes you feel confident and ready to raise a stein.
Beyond the Clothes: What to Bring to Oktoberfest
Crossbody bag or fanny pack (no backpacks!)
A crossbody bag will keep your essentials close and let you raise steins worry-free. A smaller bag (think no bigger than a purse) is best, as they will not allow backpacks at the festival.
Universal Crescent Bag
Liberty Sling Bag
High Coast Belt Bag
Crossbody Belt Bag
Coin pouch
Many everyday purchases and public restrooms in Europe rely on coins. While restrooms in the tents might be free, having a coin pouch keeps things convenient throughout your trip as you get change for small purchases.
Pro-trip: You will not be able to exchange coins for a different currency at the end of your trip. Be sure to spend all of your coins on your last day!
Umbrella
Rain is common in Munich throughout September and October. This mini umbrella folds up compactly to fit in a crossbody bag, so you can always have it with you!
Layers
Temperatures will fluctuate throughout the day at Oktoberfest. Pack an extra layer, such as a sweater or light jacket, for when the sun sets and temperatures dip.
Advil
Oktoberfest is an unforgettable experience with lively music, crowds, and, of course, steins! Packing some pain relievers can ensure you make the most of every moment. These little travel packets are great to throw in a pocket or purse.
Electrolytes
Packing electrolytes is a smart move for Oktoberfest. Between all the steins and the festive atmosphere, staying hydrated is vital. These travel-friendly tablets are perfect for keeping your energy up throughout the entire celebration. Grab a water bottle, pop in a tablet, and hydrate!
Portable phone charger
A portable phone charger is a must-have for Oktoberfest. You’ll want to capture all the fun memories and communicate with friends as you inevitably get separated at some point throughout the day. Plus, having a charged phone ensures a safe commute back to your housing after the festivities. This little charger will fit in any pocket or bag.
Wet Wipes or Hand Sanitizer
With lots of people and fun to be had, Oktoberfest can get a bit messy (think overflowing steins and celebratory hugs). Packing some hand wipes or travel-sized hand sanitizer is a great way to stay fresh throughout the day. You can quickly clean your hands before grabbing a bite or hopping back into the crowd.
Wet Ones Antibacterial Hand Wipes
Mist Hydrating Hand Sanitizer Spray
Purell Travel Hand Sanitizer
Additional Oktoberfest Travel Tips
Have cash ready for purchases.
While credit cards are becoming more accepted at Oktoberfest, cash is still the way to go for many vendors, especially for smaller purchases like sausages or souvenirs. Avoid any payment hassles and bring enough cash to enjoy your entire day of festivities.
Buy a large water bottle in the morning.
Let’s be honest, all that celebrating at Oktoberfest can make staying hydrated a challenge. Pro tip: Since water is expensive to purchase inside the festival, grab a large water bottle on your way to the grounds and get ahead of your hydration before the festivities begin. Remember, water is your friend – even (and especially) between steins!
Pack a collapsible bag to bring souvenirs home.
I always love to pack an extra collapsible bag on Europe trips so that I can check an extra bag if needed on the way home. This will not take up any extra space on your way there, but it will be nice to have in case you decide to purchase any souvenirs on your adventure!
Don’t stress about your clothes – just have fun!
Oktoberfest is all about celebrating with friends and enjoying the lively atmosphere. While traditional outfits like lederhosen and dirndls are a fun way to get into the spirit, comfortable clothes are key to maximizing your enjoyment. Focus on creating epic memories, not worrying about your outfit!
Oktoberfest FAQs
What should women wear to Oktoberfest?
The most classic outfit for women to wear at Oktoberfest is the Dirndl. A dirndl is a dress with a blouse, bodice, skirt, and apron. You can easily accessorize your dirndl to match your personal style preferences.
What should men wear to Oktoberfest?
The classic outfit for men to wear at Oktoberfest is a lederhosen matched with a checkered or white button down shirt. Simple brown shoes with high socks will accessorize and elevate your overall look.
Can I wear regular clothes to Oktoberfest?
Yes, you can wear regular clothes to Oktoberfest! Oktoberfest is all about having fun and celebrating with people around the world. While many folks embrace the festive spirit with traditional outfits, regular clothes are perfectly acceptable. Comfort is key for celebrating, so wear what makes you ready to raise a stein and enjoy the festival.
Can I wear my Oktoberfest outfit outside of the festival?
Absolutely! You will see people wearing their traditional outfits during Oktoberfest around Munich, not just at the festival tents.
Where should I buy my Oktoberfest outfit?
The best place to purchase your Oktoberfest outfit, either a dirndl or lederhosen, is in Munich. The city is home to numerous shops with a wide selection of high-quality, authentic Bavarian outfits that you will not find anywhere else in the world. Plus, the outfit will be a keepsake for life to commemorate your bucket list trip to Oktoberfest!
Can I buy my Oktoberfest outfit online?
Technically, yes, but you need to be very careful. Do not choose anything that looks like it could be a Halloween costume! My advice is to get it in Germany. If you are making the trip there, it is best to purchase the authentic look.
With that said, you can buy your accessories ahead of time. If you have a bra, blouse, or accessories you want to bring, it is great to be prepared. In the worst case, there is an H&M right in the center of Munich. I’ve purchased something from there every time I have been to Munich. I even bought extra socks from there the last time I went to Oktoberfest!
Is Oktoberfest free to enter?
It is completely free to enter Oktoberfest and walk around the festival grounds. Once inside the festival tents or at food stalls, you will need to pay for your food, drinks, and souvenirs.
We hope this guide on what to wear to Oktoberfest helps you conquer the festival in style and comfort. Remember, the most important thing is to embrace the vibrant spirit and have fun. So raise a stein (or two!), sing along to the lively music, and create unforgettable memories at this iconic Bavarian celebration.
