Frequently Asked Dirndl Questions - Outfits for Oktoberfest

Contents:

• About the Brand
• About Oktoberfest
• Questions about our products 
• Sizing Questions
• Shipping Questions
• The Chicago Studio - Dirndl Shop
• Do you make... 

About the Brand

What is so special about Rare Dirndl? 

Rare Dirndls are designed by Erika Neumayer and made in Chicago. They are modern and fashion forward takes on the traditional dirndl dress. They are made from unique and quality fabrics and have detailed hand-work that make them truly special. Most dirndls are made in very limited quantities so, they are indeed... Rare!

These are not Oktoberfest costumes or something wear once and it falls apart. We provide high quality outfits for Oktoberfest and since we're a small business our customer service is top notch! We are experts in the dirndl-wearin life, so we're happy to help with any questions you have.

What is a dirndl and how do I wear one? 

That's a great question and we've put together an entire blog post about it. Click here to read it!

Join our little community of Dirndl Super Fans on Facebook by becoming a part of the Rare Dirndl First Looks Club! You'll get first dibs on new products, vote on upcoming designs, and be involved in other fun dirndl stuff! Our group of over 1200 members post pictures of how they style their dirndls for everyday events and Oktoberfest outfits. Click here to join!

About Oktoberfest

What is Oktoberfest?

Oktoberfest is a magnificent annual festival held in Munich, Germany. Attended by an average of 6 million people from all over the globe, this event is one for the bucket list!

How did the tradition of Oktoberfest start?

The very first Oktoberfest took place on October 12, 1810. It was an event to celebrate the marriage of Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen and the crown prince of Bavaria (who would go on to become King Louis I). This celebration lasted for five days. Over time, it expanded into an epic 2-week festival that included a parade, large beer halls, amusement rides, music, and dancing.

Why is it in September?

The answer is simple… as the festival got longer, the start date was pushed back into September because the weather is typically better and the days are longer. 

Why do you hear Oktoberfest called the Wiesn?

The grounds on which Oktoberfest takes place is called the Theresienwiese… Wiesn, short for Theresienwiese. This is what most locals call Oktoberfest.

What do you wear to Oktoberfest?

If you are planning a trip to Oktoberfest in Munich, be it this year, next year, or sometime in the distant future, dressing for the Wiesn is a must! (I guess technically… there is no Oktoberfest dress code and it's not a requirement, but this just adds more fun to the event). Both locals and tourists wear traditional Bavarian and Bavarian-inspired clothing. For women, the Oktoberfest clothing is a Dirndl and for men, it’s Lederhosen.

• A Dirndl typically consists of a sleeveless dress with a blouse underneath and an apron at the waist. (It’s what the St. Pauli Girl wears).
• Lederhosen literally translates to leather pants. It is the quintessential embroidered leather pants with suspenders typically worn with a plaid or white shirt.

For more about traditional Dirndls and how to style this traditional Bavarian dress, we highly recommend you click here for our Ultimate Style Guide.

Our Products

Can I place a custom dirndl order?

Yes! We love custom projects, but they take time... sometimes lots of time and due to overwhelming demand, we have an application process and a waitlist. CLICK HERE to get all the details.

The product I want is out of stock, when will it be back in stock?

This is a great question without an easy answer. Most dirndls are made in small quantities and once they're made, we most likely do not have enough to make more. For items like jewelry, blouses and the denim lederhosen, we are limited by what our suppliers have available and work to keep stock as best we can.

The best thing to do is get on the waitlist for popular items. CLICK Here to get on the waitlist for the Denim Lederhosen. 

What lengths are the dirndls?

Rare Dirndls come in 3 lengths: Mini, Medium, and Long. The mini dirndl measures approx 20 inches from the waist and Medium approx 26 inches. The Medium length is about mid-calf length unless you are super tall. The Long length is 29" inches from the waist to the hem. There is also typically extra seam allowance in the dirndl skirt hem, so it could be made longer if necessary.

Traditional Bavarian attire is on the longer side, but you will see plenty of shorter styles at events like Oktoberfest in Munich as well. 

If you have length questions about a specific dirndl feel free to contact us and anyone on the team will be happy to answer your question. 

How do I care for my Rare Dirndl?

Rare Dirndls are primarily Hand Wash Only and some are Dry Clean Only. We do not suggest putting your dirndl in the washing machine (unless it's the Everyday Dirndl) Some aprons are machine washable. Most blouses are machine washable. It is strongly suggested that you hang dry the aprons and blouses. Check the tags to see how to care for your items. 

Are the blouses and aprons included in the price of the dirndl?

All Rare Dirndls consist of the dirndl and the apron (or belt). The dirndl blouse is separate.

Do I have to order the blouse that is pictured with the dirndl?

Some blouses are made specifically to match a certain dirndl and others can be mixed and matched with other dirndls. Double check to see if there is a direct correlation, like the use of the specific print, between the blouse and the dirndl. 

But that is the beauty of a separate dirndl blouse, the ability to change the look! You can choose one blouse to wear to Oktoberfest and another to wear to a local German restaurant!  

Sizing

Do Rare Dirndls run true to size?

We think so! Our sizes were designed to be very close to most American sizing. For example if you usually buy a dress from Macy's that’s a 8-10 you would most likely fit into a size 8-10 in a Rare Dirndl.

Keep in mind, dirndls are made to be quite fitted though the bodice. That being said, it is a flaw in the fashion system... each brand has it's own size chart, so even at Macy's some 8s will fit different from others.

For the best fit for your Oktoberfest Clothing, refer to our size chart to see what would be best for you.

Do you offer Plus Size Dirndls?

Sure do! Some Dirndls are available up to size 26 and can make any Made-to-Order Dirndl to your measurements for $99. So the sizing possibilities for your new Oktoberfest attire is endless!

How do I find out which size I am?

In order to find the size that will best fit you for your dirndl dress, measure yourself at your bust and waist and refer to our brand Size Chart and choose the size that matches your largest measurement, OR you can click here to watch our video that answers all your sizing questions!

Can I return my dirndl or blouse?

Of course! If you are unsatisfied in any way you can return your purchase.

Our policy is simple: if you are not 100% satisfied with your purchase you may return any Rare Dirndl product within 10 days of the ship date for a full refund or within 30 days for store credit. Click here for our full return policy or to start a return.

I am a unique size, do you do alterations?

Yes, we offer basic side seam alterations for $28, but please email us info[at]raredirndl[dot]com before purchasing so we can make sure it will work for you.

We also just launched a new Alterations Reimbursement Program! If your dirndl does not fit how you’d like and you have it tailored locally within 30 days of receiving your dirndl, we will reimburse up to $40 USD for the alterations. Click here to learn more and if your alterations will qualify.

 

Shipping 

Tracking information isn't updating?

Unfortunately, we do not have any more information regarding tracking than what it stated on the USPS or UPS websites. Should your package not arrive in 2 weeks of the ship date, try calling your local post office for more information about the package.  

Shipping Expenses

We offer a flat rate of $5.50 per order for shipping and FREE shipping in the United States on orders over $250. Otherwise, our website automatically calculates the USPS shipping rate based on the weight and destination and will be stated on the checkout page after shipping address has been added. International shipping can range from $12-$60USD, depending on factors previously mentioned.

Shipping Process

All orders are shipped out of our Chicago Design Studio. Orders placed Monday thru Friday (that are not listed as a PRE-ORDER or MADE TO ORDER) will normally ship within 1-3 business days since the order has been placed. Orders placed on Friday after 12:00 pm CST, Saturday, Sunday, or national holidays will ship with the next 2 business days. If any delays should occur, we will contact you by email. For items labeled as PRE-ORDER or MADE TO ORDER in the product's title, please review the item's description for approximate ship date.

Example of a Made-to-Order Dirndl Title

Tracking

You will receive an email with tracking information once the package has been shipped. If you don't receive your tracking information within 36 hours of making your order then please contact us at [email protected]. Also, please allow at least 24 hours for the tracking to update. International orders are tracked only for their duration within the US. After the order has left the US, tracking will no longer show it's location. We do not have any additional information about your package other than what is posted on the USPS website. We not are not responsible for lost or stolen packages that USPS tracking has labeled as "delivered". If you would like to purchase insurance on your package, please send us a message prior to placing your order.

International Shipping

We other a variety of shipping methods for international orders through USPS. We can ship to virtually any place in ze world. Shipments to Canada typically take about 1 week once the order has left our studio. Shipments to countries like the UK and Australia can take up to to 4 or more weeks to arrive. You can also upgrade your shipping method if you need it sooner.

International Customs Fees

Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer's responsibility. Please check with your country's customs office to determine what these additional costs will be prior to placing your order. We cannot mark your package as a gift, or a lower value... tis the law, sorry.

Gifts

If your order is a gift and you would like a gift receipt with no prices listed, please include this in your notes at checkout. 

**Rare Dirndl is not liable for lost or damaged packages.**

What are the Oktoberfest Shipping Deadlines?

In order to ensure that you have your Oktoberfest outfit ready for your trip. We have a few Oktoberfest shipping deadlines order by August 1 for all international orders and order by August 31 for USPS priority or UPS.

The Chicago Studio

Do you have more dirndls in your store or are they all online? 

Everything we have available is listed online. You won't find any secret dirndl or extra sizes here in the Design Studio. Dirndls are made in small quantities so if your size has been sold... we're very sorry, but there aren't any hiding in the Design Studio.  

Where are Rare Dirndls made?

In the USA baby! Everything is designed by Erika Neumayer in our Design Studio located in the Lincoln Square neighborhood of Chicago. From there, the inventory is patterned, cut and sewn within 15 miles of the studio. We use a combination of local seamstresses and small manufacturers who are all paid a fair living wage. If you ever have any concerns about the quality of the garments or the ethical treatment of those who create our products, please feel free to contact us: info[at]raredirndl[dot]com

Can I try on my dirndl if I come to the Design Studio?

Yes of course! We'd love to have you in the studio to shop. Here is a link to our calendar where you can schedule a shopping appointment >> https://calendly.com/rare-dirndl/in-studio-shopping-appointment

Do you make...

What are the guidelines for bulk orders?

Orders of 3-5 pieces get 15% off the initial order and 6+ receive 20% off the initial order. All re-orders would be 10% unless the quantity qualifies you for the bulk discount again. Not all dirndls are available for purchase in large numbers, e-mail for more information. 

Bulk accessory orders can also be placed via email. Special pricing is available for orders of 10+ pieces. Email info[at]raredirndl[dot]com to talk more about bulk orders.

I have a retail store... do you wholesale?

We do not. Some things are available to order in bulk at discounted rates, but it is not what you would consider wholesale in terms of the pricing.

Do you make wedding dresses?

We make wedding dirndls! We offer custom made Bridal Dirndls. For more information on our Bridal Dirndl offerings CLICK HERE.

Can I order custom dirndls for my dance group?

Unfortunately, we are not currently making group dirndls. 

Do you make any children's dirndls? 

Nope... sorry. 

Can I order a Custom Trachtenshirt or Vest? 

Unfortunately, we are not making anymore Men's Trachtenshirts or Vests. 

Do you make Men's Lederhosen? 

No. We do not have any menswear (except for a few Krampus t-shirts around the holidays).

When it comes to traditional Lederhosen we recommend our good friends at Ernst Licht. You can also find some vintage or used pairs on Ebay or Amazon, but buyer beware... you can also find yourself with an ill-fitting pair of not so authentic lederhosen. 

Do you make Donauschwaben Leiwls? 

Unfortunately, we are not making anymore Men's Leiwls (but we know who can, shoot us an email and we'll point you in the right direction). 

For any other questions feel free to e-mail erika[at]raredirndl[dot]com or call us at (312) 806-5099 with any further questions.