Sizing Questions - Standard & Plus Size Dirndl Size Chart

WHAT SIZE DIRNDL SHOULD I ORDER?

Got questions about dirndl dress sizing? No worries… you're not alone! Questions regarding sizing are the most common, so we created this Q&A page + videos that answer the most frequently asked questions regarding sizing.


JUMP TO AMERICAN & GERMAN SIZE CHART

 

erika neumayer styling a dirndl dress and apron for a photoshoot. dirndl dresses for oktoberfest

Do Rare Dirndls run true to size?

We think so! Rare Dirndl sizes were designed to be very close to most American sizing. For example if you usually buy a dress from Macys 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. For the best fit, refer to our size chart to see what would be best for you.

In addition to our own designs, we also carry some designs from Germany. Those dirndls are sizes according to European sizes (38-40 etc). We totally understand that this can be very confusing, but we're here to help

For the most part, if you are a size 8, then you would be a Euro size 40... American size +32.

But I have another dirndl from another company and it says 12… aren’t dirndls sized differently than regular dresses?

Other dirndl companies have their own size chart and are not comparable to the Rare Dirndl size chart. For the best fit, refer to our size chart to see what would be best for you.

My other dirndl is European size 40, what size Rare Dirndl should I buy?

Rare Dirndls are made in the USA, so our sizing is American (4,6,8 etc). Our dirndls are designed to be as close to regular American dress sizes as possible, however we recommend that you refer to size chart to see which size would be the best fit for your measurements.

My Rare Dirndl is a size 16, what size German Dirndl should I buy?

We would recommend going with a size 48. If it doesn't fit the way you'd like it to, you can always exchange it or take advantage of our Alterations Reimbursement Program.

How do I measure myself?

Its actually pretty simple. You can watch this video for a visual…

Silhouette of a woman to show where to measure for a dirndl dress for oktoberfestFor the bust measurement, you’ll want to take the measuring tape around the largest part of the bust (typically around your ribcage and across the center of your bust. For the waist, you’ll want to take the measuring tape around the smallest part of the waist… this is usually right around your belly button or a bit above it. Another way to find your true waist is to bend to one side… that bend is your waist.

Isn’t that kinda high? It seems high but it's really not. 

Ok, I’m measured… now what? Ok, now check out the size chart (below)… Figure out where your measurements fall. Most people will NOT fit exactly into the size chart, and that’s OK!
The most important fit tends to be in the waist. You can keep in mind that dirndls with a lower cut neckline are more flexible in the bust, so if your bust is bigger then the measurements by a little, the dirndl should still fit fine and if your bust measurement is too small… well, that’s why I have a “dirndl bra”.
 
If the dirndl has a higher neckline, you should consider the bust fit when ordering.
  

Dirndl Size Chart 

XS S S M M L L XL XL 2XL 2XL 3XL 3XL 4XL 4XL
US Size 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30
German Size 34 36 38 40 42 44 46 48 50 52 54 56 58 60 62
Bust 33 34.5 36 37.5 39 40.5 42 44 46 48 50 52 54 56 58
Waist 26 27.5 29 30.5 32 33.5 35 37 42 44 46 48 50 52

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Do you have Plus Size Dirndls?

Sure do! Many of our dirndl dresses are available up to size 26 and we also have some Plus Size Exclusive Dirndls that are available from size 16 - 26. If you are unsure of what size you are there is an additional size chart below. 

 Plus Size Dirndl - Size Chart

US Size 18 20 22 24 26 28 30
German Size 50 52 54 56 58 60 62
Bust 46 48 50 52 54 56 58

Waist

 42 44 46 48 50 52 54

 

woman walking in a yellow plus size dirndl dress with a black blouse - great look for oktoberfest in munich

What if my dirndl doesn’t fit at all?!

You are more than welcome to return your dirndl if you are unsatisfied with the fit. You can return your dirndl (in its original condition) within 10 days for a full refund, and within 30 days for store credit. Shipping is not refundable.

I am a unique size, do you do alterations?

If you need alterations made to your dirndl, we highly recommend you go to a seamstress or tailor in your area. It's very difficult for us to make proper alterations when we can not see the dirndl on you in person. Even if we just see photos, it is tricky business, so the best route would be to find someone talented in your area to help you get the perfect fit. We want you to feel the most beautiful and comfortable in your dirndl!

We also offer an Alteration 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. 

What size blouse should I order to go with my dirndl?

We also try to make the blouses as true to common American sizing as possible. So for example, if your dirndl is a 4-6 we recommend a small | 8-10, medium | 12-14, large | 16-18, XL | 20-22, 2XL | 24-26, 3XL

We also have this handy dandy chart! 

Dirndl Blouse size chart - blouses for oktoberfest

What size apron should I order to go with my dirndl?

If your dirndl is a 4-6 we recommend a small | 8-10, medium | 12-14, large | 16-18, XL | 20-22, 2XL | 24-26, 3XL. The Little Black Dirndl uses a 18" mini length apron and the Everyday Dirndl uses a 24" medium length apron (unless you had yours made in the mini length). Not all dirndl dresses from other companies are the these lengths, so please check before buying. 

Dirndl Apron Size Guide - apron for oktoberest

Denim Lederhosen Sizing Questions

Is the sizing accurate?

Sizing seems pretty accurate and they have good a amount of stretch. Here is a size chart.

NOTE: the measurements of the garment and the waistband measurement is not at the natural waist. The waistband sits lower on the body, closer to the bottom of the bellybutton (ish). 

Denim Lederhosen Size Chart 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24
Waistband 27 28 30 32 34 36 38 40 41 42.5 44
Hip 34 25 37 39 41 43 45 47 48 49.5 51

 

woman wearing denim lederhosen holding a liter of beer - great alternative look for oktoberfest

Would you have sizes that fit a curvy US 14/16 girl?

Yes! You can order in size 16 or 18

Can they fit a pear? With thick thighs and curve?

They're pretty fitted in the thighs, I would go a size up if you are worried. Easier to take the inseam in than out. 

Is there stretch?

Yes, and it's a good amount of stretch too! 

Is the sizing comparable to Macy’s sizing? For example, I take a 10 in pants at Macy’s.

It's hard to say because Macy's carries a variety of brands. But I would say that if you generally wear a 10 in pants, the 10 should fit. 

Are we allowed to exchange for another size if one does not fit?

We will 100% try to make and exchange for a size that fits well. If we don't have the right size you will get a full refund. 

 

woman in a plus size dirndl dress in a beer tent at oktoberfest standing next to a man wearing lederhosen and a trachten jacket

Still have more questions?

No problem! Free to call us at (312) 806-5099 or e-mail [email protected]