123 Austrian Dirndl

Misses XS-3XL. The Dirndl dates back to the Renaissance and is one of few regional costumes still worn extensively in Austria, southern Germany, and Switzerland. Additionally, a favorite at Renaissance Faires and Oktoberfests, this three-piece outfit enhances the maiden in you. The complete dirndl consists of a close fitting sleeveless bodice with attached full skirt, over an abbreviated blouse, finished with a contrasting apron.   With View A, the dress is cut just above the bustline and buttons in front to the waist.  Its blouse is lightly gathered into a jewel neckline with a self-tie. View B's bodice is cut wider and deeper - below the fullest part of the bust - and fitted with bones and small gussets.  The front opening fastens with hooks and eyes.  Its blouse gathers in front into a square neckline.  Both blouses have gathered sleeves with an encased elastic band forming a ruffle at the elbow.  Variations include knee-length or low-calf length, dirndl bodice with high or low-neck, high or low-neck blouse, and an apron. This pattern includes many options for detailing, ruffling, ruching, and shaping. Information is also included about authentic detailing, custom fitting, and adapting garment for Renaissance costumes. Suggested fabrics: For the Dirndl, choose medium to heavyweight cotton, silk, wool, velvet, or corduroy. For the Blouse and Apron, choose light to medium-weight cotton, silk, rayon, or blends. The Apron is also nice in taffeta. Yardage chart (.pdf) This is the paper pattern.  For the PDF pattern, please go here.     LEARN MORE:  This pattern has a lot of details on creating your own ruching.  And we have a great blog post with a tutorial on making some of the ruching.