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    <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog?sAtom=1" rel="self" type="application/atom+xml" />
    <author>
        <name>Alpenclassics.co.uk</name>
    </author>
    <title>Blog/Atom feed</title>
    <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog?sRss=1</id>
    <updated>2026-04-30T15:43:13+02:00</updated>
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">What is dirndl underwear– and how is it worn?</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/what-is-dirndl-underwear-and-how-is-it-worn</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/what-is-dirndl-underwear-and-how-is-it-worn"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            If you want to wear a dirndl well, the most important thing is what you&#039;re wearing underneath: dirndl bras, petticoats, underskirts... It&#039;s not business as usual!
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                 For lots of first-time dirndl wearers, it can be a bit of a bit of shock: suddenly they need underskirts. Underskirts? The last person they knew who wore those was – if at all – granny. Then, to top it off, they realise that many bras do not suit their new dirndl, because this kind of dress changes the shape of the bust and also has a completely different cut in the shoulder area to what they are otherwise used to. So if you want to wear a dirndl in a way that looks good – and avoid embarrassing slip-ups – it’s as well to take a look at what’s worn under them. 
 Ffirst off,  why  does a dirndl require  special dirndl underwear ? That’s due to the template for today’s dirndls, which are traditional Bavarian dresses, developed at a time when women didn’t wear slips or knickers: clothes for women were ankle-length, worn under many layers of underskirts. Today’s fashion dirndl is therefore the descendent of a piece of clothing that was always worn with underskirts, and that’s why it often looks a little shapeless without one. 
  Luckily, however, modern Bavarian fashion labels also provide suitable dirndl underskirts, so there’s no need to hit the vintage clothes shop or go plundering granny’s wardrobe. For mid-length dirndls and the more traditional long-skirt variants, the best option is a classic  dirndl underskirt  which finishes just an inch or so above the hem of the outer skirt but features lace trimming in case it should become briefly visible. If you want to leave a lasting impression in such rare cases – or would simply like a little more volume under the skirt – hen there’s the  dirndl petticoat  option, which, with its layered, especially voluminous seams of net lace, gives the dirndl skirt real structure and creates an impressive silhouette. 
  Shorter, lighter, and more adventurous mini-dirndls may require something more than just a suitably short underskirt, however, as even these can leave sensitive areas vulnerable to unwanted glances from certain angles... Which is why there are also  dirndl bloomers , silky undershorts offering comfort and protection with style… Cheeky and handy - this  pair of bloomers  keeps straying eyes away. 
  Now that there’s nothing to see at leg height, let’s take a look at the chest. The only sure-fire way to get the full, inviting, busty Oktoberfest bosom that should come with a dirndl is by wearing a  dirndl bra . But what does it do that standard models don’t? As the corset of a dirndl already offers a lot of structure and pushes the breasts upwards, you don’t need the support of average bra shapes; what is more, the  dirndl bra  straps are thinner and lie wider over the shoulder, helping them to disappear under the dirndl more than a normal bra would. Finally, given the low-cut shape of a dirndl dress, good Oktoberfest bras have pretty details on the hems to help them blend into the outfit just in case they do “pop up”. And given the rough-and-ready gusto with which Bavarian women stand on benches, arms around the men, belting out their favourite hits in the tents, it’s just as well for them to have a strong “second line of defence” up top during the Oktoberfest... 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2018-04-18T14:00:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">The Best Dirndls of the 2018 Season</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/the-best-dirndls-of-the-2018-season</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/the-best-dirndls-of-the-2018-season"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            If you’re heading over to Munich or anywhere else in south Germany this summer, there’s no better way to enjoy that special summer feeling than to get the right dirndl. What’s more, it’s never too early to start preparing for the Oktoberfest!
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                 Bavaria is currently enjoying its first days of spring: 20 degrees, sunshine, and a light wind from the mountain. And that means that the beer gardens are starting to fill up with lads in lederhosen and girls in dirndls. If you’re heading over to Munich or anywhere else in south Germany this summer, there’s no better way to enjoy that special summer feeling than to get the right dirndl. What’s more, it’s never too early to start preparing for the Oktoberfest, so why not start steal a march on everyone and taking a look at the dirndls ahead of time? To help you make the right choice this year, we’ve decided to present our favourite dirndls of the 2018 season in four categories. 
       
   The best mini-length dirndl   
 Are you someone who likes to go for that young carefree look – and doesn’t like being encumbered by heavy fabric, especially when the temperatures go up (as they always do in Bavarian beer tents)? If so, then mini-dirndls are for you, and in the category 50-60cm skirt length, our favourite is this  lovely model by Krüger Dirndl . Made of 100% cotton, it’s sure to keep you cool while its low-cut neckline will keep the heat up around you… With the shiny metal details on the lace-up front and its on-trend dusky shades, this is  the  party dirndl for 2018. 
       
   The best mid-length dirndl   
 The midi dirndl category (skirts between 60 and 70cm) is the Goldilocks length that most women find ‘neither too short nor too long’. With a skirt that just covers the knees, mid-length models keep purists happy while leaving the wearer more freedom than a classic full-length model – also in style terms, this year’s winner in the category proves.  Stockerpoint’s effort  with a button-up, closed neckline front is bang on trend in 2018; the polyester fabric has a festive sheen while the printed apron offers more interest on repeated examination. What is more, the toned-down blue and green shades flatter almost any shade of skin and give the outfit a quality couture air. 
       
   The best full-length dirndl   
 Stockerpoint takes the money in this often-neglected category with its  classic full-length dirndl Leonora  in black. With a 96cm skirt, this is the real deal in terms of Bavarian tradition and won’t raise an eyebrow anywhere; nevertheless, its decorative neckline and stand-up collar are anything but standard and, combined with a button-up dirndl blouse make for an unusual but eye-catching outline at the bust. This dirndl is about understated elegance and a timeless yet contemporary fashion look and, as such, is just perfect both for dirndl purists and for staff serving in more formal Bavarian hospitality contexts. 
       
   The best plus-size dirndl   
 In all areas of fashion, designers are notorious for neglecting the needs of plus-size ladies, and Bavarian clothing is, unfortunately, no different. That’s why we’re delighted to be able to feature this  fantastic dirndl in coral pink by Marjo . With its glowing colour and shining apron, this is a dirndl for girly girls, its playfulness underlined by its floral patterning. This cotton-lined dirndl is just perfect for warmer weather – and that makes it our recommendation in this category for the summer season 2018. 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2018-04-04T13:30:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">The Best Lederhosen of the 2018 Season</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/trends/the-best-lederhosen-of-the-2018-season</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/trends/the-best-lederhosen-of-the-2018-season"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            A pair of lederhosen is the central piece in traditional Bavarian costume for men – and lately, leather breeches have been becoming key items for women too. So we&#039;ve decided to do our bit and award prizes to the best of the 2015 crop in traditional award-show style.
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                 A pair of lederhosen is the central piece in traditional Bavarian costume for men – and lately, leather breeches have been becoming key items for women too. What is more, due to its high quality material and the handicraft skills needed to produce them, real Bavarian lederhosn are the most expensive piece of kit in any Oktoberfest outfit. And although there is no end of models, unlike shirts or aprons, you generally only ever tend to buy one at a time. 
 So we’d understand if you were on the look-out for a little help in finding the right lederhosen to buy – and have decided to do our bit and award prizes to the best of the 2015 crop in traditional award-show style. 
   Newcomer of the Year (Men’s)  As far as our jury is concerned, there is a very clear winner in this category: Stockerpoint&#039;s new deerskin model. It’s harder to be more of the moment than with this understated shade of leather - aged, darkened and nodding towards the current trend for “lived-in” pieces in Bavarian fashion. At the same time, however, Oliver has all of the classic lederhosen design elements such as the button-down flap across the fly, the traditional pouch for a hunting knife on the right-hand side, and buttons made of buckhorn. As a contemporary touch, the braces have been replaced by a belt. Oliver is a pair of lederhosen which keeps up with the trends, without being overly trendy, and is robust enough to be worn for several decades to come.  &amp;nbsp; 
   Newcomer of the Year (Women’s)  With ladies’ lederhosen having becoming so popular in recent years, there is no shortage of contenders for the newcomer category. But of course there can only be one winner, and for our jury, 2015’s stand-out new piece is  Xenia in old Havanna brown . This pair of women’s leather breeches manages to be both breezily boyish and coyly feminine: the shape and cut is short and tight - we&#039;re talking hotpants here - but the stitching and details are spot-on Bavarian. Traditions and trends in one amazing piece!  &amp;nbsp; 
      Comeback of the Year (Men’s)  It was a close-run thing: on the one hand, there are all the fantastic Stockerpoint deerskin lederhosen from 2016 that are still just begging to be bought. On the other hand, Krüger Buam has been bringing out a slew of experimental, contemporary pieces in recent years which, although not always immediately successful, soon gain a cult following. And so it is that the Comeback of the Year Award goes to a pair of Krüger breeches with striking white edelweiß stitching:  welcome back !!  &amp;nbsp; 
   Classic of the Year (Women’s)  Women’s lederhosen are experiencing an unbroken upswing of late – the operative words are “unbroken”, meaning that there aren’t ladies’ leather breeches that went away and are ready for a comeback just yet. That’s why we’re using this category to celebrate the ladies’ lederhosen that have remained relevant since release. And there’s a very clear winner for us here:  Jail in dark berry , a short, sexy garment which is going into its foruth season and is still the perfect accompaniment for new looks such as Bavarian-themed t-shirts or denim bodices. Despite its trendy role, however, Jail is also a clearly high-end piece of genuine quality. Bravo!  &amp;nbsp; 
   Lederhosen of the Year 2018  And now, whether for him or for her, we’ve got to settle on one overall winner. Which pair of lederhosen has impressed us Bavarian fashion know-it-alls this season more than all the others. Which pair would be put on a pedestal all of its own? Without further ado, the winner is... these fantastic deerskin over-knee breeches. The amazing thing about this pair of classic men&#039;s lederhosen by Stockerpoint is the way the designers have managed to make piece that is both accessible to first-timers and attractive to the experienced. This new effort in the premium deerskin category combines quality workmanship and traditional design with subtle, yet intriguing details such as morse-code style pointwork in place of standard embroidery. It is, quite simply, a work of genius, squaring the circle of fashion, quality, and timelessness - and making itself the clear 2018 winner! 
   &amp;nbsp; 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2018-03-21T12:00:00+01:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Alpenclassics outfits for the Munich Strong Beer Festival</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/alpenclassics-outfits-for-the-munich-strong-beer-festival</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/alpenclassics-outfits-for-the-munich-strong-beer-festival"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Today’s tapping ceremony in Munich is for the Starkbierfest, quite literally the “Strong Beer Festival”. One of the city&#039;s best-kept secrets, we show the outfits you need to blend in...
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                 Today, Munich is celebrating as the first keg of beer is tapped – and no, you’re not reading an article meant for mid-September that got mis-scheduled. No, today’s tapping ceremony is for the  Starkbierfest , quite literally the “Strong Beer Festival”, or – as we like to call it – the Spring Oktoberfest. Unlike its more popular autumnal cousin, however, the Strong Beer Festival happens without fairground rides, without hordes of tourists, and without tents, but does have all of the usual tasty food, frothy beer, and –  natürlich  – beautiful Bavarian clothing. 
 In fact, the Strong Beer Festival, generally held in the run-up to Easter in February and March, is something of a fashion laboratory for the Oktoberfest later in the year: you’ll often spot the year’s trends here first. At the same time, however, the oft chilly conditions mean that drinkers often sport somewhat different traditional looks with lots of wool and loden.  In fact, if you’re intrigued by the festival (and with “Strong Beer” in the title, who wouldn’t be?), then why not head over to Munich at some point in the coming three weeks – and sort yourself with an authentic Bavarian outfit like the ones below. These combinations are guaranteed fashionable and will keep you warm and cosy in the last of the cold weather to (quite literally) boot. 
  Dirndl and knits  This year, colours are getting less bright: the look is about using dark background shades as the setting for splashes of lilac, green, or blue. So why not move with the trend and get a  black cardigan  like this one, featuring fun details like sewn-in hearts for that fashionable and feminine touch? What is more, the hip-hugging cut will accentuate your figure despite all those layers against the cold. Matched with a knee-length dirndl in a rich dark pink, this outfit offers strong colour contrast for a strong beer. 
   Lederhosen with jacket  Alternatively, ladies can opt for a lederhosen look, like with this pair of almost knee-length leather breeches and suede pumps (which can, in case of icy conditions, be swapped out for hard-wearing, robust boots). Combined with a  Bavarian knitted jacket  in a cosy wool/nylon blend in a fashionable fuchsia shade, it’s a good look if the weather is still decidedly wintery and can stand up to some punishment in the breweries – which, given the effects of beer at 7.5% ABV is probably no bad thing. (Yes, this is another of those Bavarian occasions where we select clothing based on how easily it disguises stains…) 
   Loden jacket: now or never   If you’re the proud owner of lederhosen and have always been looking for a good excuse to extend your collection of Bavarian wear, then here is the excuse you’ve been waiting for to add a real Alpine loden jacket. After all, buying a jacket specially for the Oktoberfest can often seem like a waste of money with temperatures generally in double figures for much of proceedings; but at the Starkbierfest, the combination of colder weather and the high proportion of Munich in-crowd visitors means that you’ll see plenty of loden blazers – known as   Janker   – paired up with silky satin waistcoats. It’s a fantastic look, and a visit to one of the Munich breweries at this time of year is the perfect opportunity to rock it yourself. And although your standard lederhosen from the Oktoberfest will go perfectly with the jacket, if your concerned about the cold, just take a look at our collection of  full-length lederhosen . 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2018-02-28T11:00:00+01:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Springtime for Bavaria!</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/news/springtime-for-bavaria</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/news/springtime-for-bavaria"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Carnival, Strong Beer Festival, Frühlingsfest: if you&#039;re looking for some Bavarian fun that’s off the beaten track, you might want to think about heading out in spring
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                 Sure, the classic time of year for a holiday to Bavaria is late summer and early autumn: hiking in the Alps and swimming in crystal-clear lakes in August, enjoying warm summer evenings in Munich’s beer gardens, or hitting the Oktoberfest tents in late September are all absolute highlights that every German-o-phile should have experienced at least once! Then there’s winter, with snowy mountain peaks and world-renowned ski resorts such as Garmisch-Partenkirchen. 
 If you’ve done all of that, though, and are looking for some Bavarian fun that’s a little more off the beaten track, you might want to think about heading out in spring. Sure, the weather might not be so great – in bad years, Munich especially can stay wet and chilly well into April – but there are several events that make a trip well worthwhile for people interested in German and Bavarian culture. 
   Fasching – German Carnival   
  If you thought Carnival was limited to the beaches of Rio, you’re wrong! Situated just across the Alps from Venice, Munich has a long tradition of masked balls in the weeks running up to Lent and, like the rest of southern and western Germany, likes to have a big knees up in the days before Ash Wednesday. Expect parades through town, lots of fun costumes, and plenty of beer! And remember to check the dates, as Lent moves every year with Easter and can fall as early as mid-February and as late as mid-March. (This year, 2018, Pancake Day - the last day before Lent, is on 13th February; but next year, 2019, it&#039;s on 5th March!) 
  Interested? If you’ve booked your flights and are looking for ideas for a good Bavarian outfit, remember to keep it colourful. You don&#039;t necessarily have to wear lederhosen and dirndls: in fact, most locals get dressed up in fun costumes and some even consider it disrespectful to wear Bavarian clothing as &quot;fancy dress&quot;. Then again, some Munich residents put on their lederhosen every time they go drinking - and expect there to be a lot of drinking... Whatever you do, add something unusual to your outfit! 
    Starkbierfest – Strong Beer Festival   
 The origins of Carnival are linked to Lent and religious laws about what could be eaten during periods of fasting: i.e. it was all about having one last good knees-up before having to give up meat and booze for the six weeks until Easter. Munich, however, has always had a pretty liberal attitude towards, well, lots of things, so here, Lent is also traditionally the time of the Strong Beer Festival, a three-week long celebration of high-proof brews with impressive-sounding names like Salvator and Triumphator. Apparently, church law never considered beer to be something from which people should abstain... 
  Like the sound of it? Head for any of the major beer halls (Hofbräuhaus, Löwenbräukeller, etc.) or to the legendary Paulaner am Nockherberg and join in the fun. Outfits should be traditional Bavarian and slightly on the formal side if you really want to blend in: leave the check shirt and bright colours for the Oktoberfest and opt for richer, darker tones; in terms of fabric, it&#039;s also about a more formal feel, so avoid linen or thin cotton and opt for something a little more substantial - and a little more festive.  Waistcoats  with a sheen and white collared shirts are best for the boys; for girls, the  dirndl  should be slightly longer and anything with gold metallic or deep burgundies and violets works very well. 
   Auer Dult/Frühlingsfest – spring-time funfairs   
 Missing the Oktoberfest badly? Join the club! Which is why Munich holds the  Frühlingsfest  – literally “spring festival” – funfair on the Theresienwiese at the half-way point between Oktoberfests. There’s also the springtime fair at Mariahilfsplatz known as the Auer Dult, a kind of mini-Wiesn with fairground rides and (somewhat smaller) beer tents. Well worth a visit if you need a quick injection of Bavarian  art de vivre  to make it through to September. Dress code? Whatever you like! 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2018-02-07T12:00:00+01:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">What do Bavarians traditionally wear in winter?</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/what-do-bavarians-traditionally-wear-in-winter</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/what-do-bavarians-traditionally-wear-in-winter"/>
            <summary type="html">
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                                            Anyone still need help identifying the five pieces of a lederhosen outfit? Any girls still unaware that a dirndl is made up of three items? Didn’t think so. What happens when the mercury drops, however, and you still want to sport authentic Bavarian clothes?
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                 There&amp;rsquo;s probably nobody who likes Bavarian fashion who doesn&amp;rsquo;t know what a typical outfit for a beer festival looks like. Does anyone still need help identifying the five pieces of a typical Oktoberfest outfit for the lads? Any girls out there still unaware that a dirndl is made up of three items &amp;ndash; dress, blouse, and apron &amp;ndash; and needs matching shoes and a bag? Didn&amp;rsquo;t think so. 
 What happens when the mercury drops, however, and you still want to sport authentic Bavarian clothes? What kinds of traditional Bavarian clothing are there for cold winter days and how are they worn? 
 As you might expect, the possibilities are numerous. After all, Bavarian  Tracht  was originally working dress for the whole year &amp;ndash; much of it spent outside on the (often chilly) Alpine slopes. Longer lederhosen and dirndl, extra layers of wool, leather coats&amp;hellip; So let us show you some classic Bavarian winter looks that are bound to keep you cosy. 
       For men, there are some easy ways to keep warm in Bavarian clothing. If, for example, you have a pair of short lederhosen and don&amp;rsquo;t want (or can&amp;rsquo;t afford) to add a longer set to your wardrobe, all you need do is invest in good woolly socks. The traditional &amp;ldquo;Loferl&amp;rdquo; legwarmers, especially, can be extended to cover your knees and shins. Add a thick satin waistcoat and a water-repellent  loden jacket , and Bob&amp;rsquo;s your uncle. If you have a knee-length pair of lederhosen, it&amp;rsquo;s even easier to keep the cold out: all you need to do is pull your usual woolly socks up&amp;hellip; 
        If that&amp;rsquo;s not warm enough for you &amp;ndash; and if you you were simply always looking for an excuse to drop a month&amp;rsquo;s rent on Bavarian clothing &amp;ndash; then your winter outfit involves  full-length lederhosen  and Bavarian leather coats. Yes, it is a lot of money, but it should be considered as an investment in robust, comfortable, and warm clothing that &amp;ndash; compared to your average pair of jeans &amp;ndash; will last and last. Essentially, these are lifetime pieces. A cheaper, but no less stylish option, is Bavarian knitwear: you&amp;rsquo;ll need to replace it more often, of course, but nothing keeps you warm and cosy like fluffy woollen cardigans. 
       Knitwear is a big thing for ladies in winter, too. In fact, a good piece of Bavarian knit, a pair of knee-length schoolgirl socks, and petticoats or bloomers are all you need to turn your Oktoberfest dirndl into an all-year-round, winter-proof dress. Another option is a total &amp;ldquo;back to the roots&amp;rdquo; strategy involving genuine  ankle-length dirndls and a long apron  : wearing that with an elbow-length blouse will make you look more authentic than a grandma in Munich &amp;ndash; and keep you warmer than anything else. 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2018-01-23T10:15:00+01:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Bavarian knitwear is looking fresh this winter</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/trends/bavarian-knitwear-is-looking-fresh-this-winter</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/trends/bavarian-knitwear-is-looking-fresh-this-winter"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Wool, with its versatile uses, warming fibres, and cuddly, soft feel is simply indispensable in winter. Which is why we’re delighted to be offering an extended range of woollen cardigans and jackets this year.
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                 Freezing snowdrifts, steely ice, biting northerly winds: when it comes to winter, the Bavarians know what they’re talking about. And that’s why their traditional clothing is made primarily of highly protective materials like leather, wool, and loden.   And wool, with its versatile uses, warming fibres, and cuddly, soft feel is simply indispensable in winter. Which is why we’re delighted to be offering an extended range of woollen cardigans and jackets this year which is more varied and colourful than ever before. You’ll find everything from smart, structured tops cut like blazers that, especially with a long dirndl, will give you a genuine vintage look, through to softer, more relaxed models for comfortable everyday wear – all of it in a range of colours and with a real eye for detail. 
     
 Girls, especially, can look forward to a range of new items, from traditional pieces like  Rosali in undyed beige  that can be combined with almost everything through to Dill, a formal bolero-style cropped shoulder cardigan for evening wear, a free-flowing knitted top with ruffles and open stitching. Whether you’re after something  smart and tailored  that wouldn&#039;t be out of place at the office or something as feminine as possible for an eye-catching outfit like  Ajour in pink , you’ll love our wool range. 
     
 Or why not go or something unusual like  Kiwi green ? It’s a traditionally-shaped cardigan with a modern twist that is just made for the new breed of fashionable ladies’ lederhosen. For many, though, the leather shorts that are so popular at the moment might be just a little too insubstantial for winter, so if you’re looking for a more classical look with a long-skirt dirndl or a nice pair of smart jeans, then it’s Bavarian knitwear like  our Hilda model  you’ll be looking for. This new interpretation of the classic ladies’ cardigan in a purled knitting pattern with additional floral edelweiss embroidery comes in soft pastel tones and can be worn for literally any occasion. 
    
 For the lads, the developments in  cardigan fashion  are, as you might expect, a little more conservative. Nevertheless, there’s a range of updates in Bavarian knitwear for men, too. The colours are the same as ever (anthrazite and graphite – i.e. grey, beige and brown - remain dominant) and give woollen jackets like Jan and Mitch a familiar granddad look, but trendy sew-on details, ribbed knits, an even hoods bring the pieces firmly into 2018. Nevertheless, the overall vintage shape and elbow patches anchors these pieces firmly in the heritage of the 1960s.   And that is just the way it should be: Bavarian fashion lives from its traditions, and anyone looking for proper winter clothing will be glad of it! 
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                            <updated>2018-01-10T11:45:00+01:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Lederhosen and dirndls: the perfect Christmas gift</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/news/lederhosen-and-dirndls-the-perfect-christmas-gift</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/news/lederhosen-and-dirndls-the-perfect-christmas-gift"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            This might sound odd, but now is the perfect time to get Bavarian fashion for that very special Oktoberfest fan in your life. Read why!
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                <![CDATA[
                 This might sound odd, but now is the perfect time to get Bavarian fashion for that very special Oktoberfest fan in your life. “How so?” we hear you ask, when the Munich festivities are still 10 months off! Well, there are actually several very good reasons to look for lederhosen, dirndls, and associated fashion gear now. 
  For a start, this is the time of year when we as an online shop selling Bavarian clothing have the fewest orders. So without giving away too much by way of trade secrets, you’re buying “anti-cyclical” and can expect to find  some   good   deals  on our site – the  kind of sales discounts  we’d be crazy to offer in late summer when all of our customers take a collective look in the calendar and realise that the Oktoberfest is only one month off… 
 Secondly, buying way ahead of time is great way to make sure you get the right fit for your Munich-mad love one. Even with our fantastic size-guide, lederhosen and dirndls can be difficult to gauge right if you’re buying first time round, so ordering with almost a year left to go gives you ample opportunity to make use of your 100-days right of return if necessary. 
 Finally, if you’re looking for a surprise gift, this really will be unexpected. Even the most ardent Wiesn-goer whose eyes go over all misty when they talk of the Oktoberfest will probably not be thinking too much about it in December, so they’ll likely be roundly – but pleasantly – surprised to open up a pair of genuine leather breeches or a real Bavarian dirndl on Christmas Day. 
   
   
 &amp;nbsp; 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 If you’re looking for some handy stocking fillers to go with, by the way, or know that your Oktoberfest-mad family member is already satisfied with their current pair of lederhosen or dirndl dress, why not take a look at our range of  accessories  including traditional “ charivari ” trinklets for leather trousers and  handbags to match dirndls . 
 And find me a man who’s not secretly happy to get a  decent pair of socks  on Christmas morning… 
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2017-12-13T12:00:00+01:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Get to grips with winter – German style!</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/get-to-grips-with-winter-german-style</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/get-to-grips-with-winter-german-style"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            When winter gets serious, it’s time to get serious back! After all, there’s no such thing as the wrong weather, just the wrong type of clothing, as any boot-wearning Bavarian will tell you.
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            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 Snow, ice, sleet, hail, and even just plain old chilly winter rain are enough to make a mockery of most standard trainers. Sure, chucks with low ankle socks might  look  pretty good, but who really likes having wet toes? No, when winter gets serious, it’s time to take a leaf out of Bavarians’ book and get serious back! After all, there’s no such thing as the wrong weather, just the wrong type of clothing, as any Munich resident will tell you. 
 Even in the wetter, milder winters of its north and west, Germans generally won’t be caught without a sturdy pair of boots. Often, they double up as hiking wear, too: their warmth factor can usually be modified by how high up they are tied and what kind of socks you’re wearing with them. Here’s a few German winter boots from our collection that will keep your feet nice and toasty – and keep you upright if you’re out in the snow and ice. 
 Beyond practicality and style, though, what’s the best thing about a good pair of Bavarian boots? That’s right: they go perfectly with lederhosen and are great alternative to traditional  Haferlschuhe  brogues, especially if you’re looking to combine an Oktoberfest visit with some mountaineering later on next year… 
   Johannes   
   Thanks to its thick sole and high shaft, Johannes is a strong winter-ready footwear option. Available in  classic rustic brown  or a  stylish blue-and-beige  combination, this heavy-duty leather boot can be worn with a variety of trouser styles: skinny-fit jeans sit inside and can be kept in place by tightening the buckle above the ankle; boot-cut or straight jeans fall just over the top. The side zips make getting in and out of them an absolute doddle compared to most winter boots (you can leave the laces tied), while the break across the toe minimises the additional girth that comes from wearing boots, making even the largest of feet look comparatively svelte. 
    Jarre   
 The  Jarre model in whisky beige-brown  is a more traditional leather boot, featuring a lace tie-up and few other fashion features. As such, it’s the perfect boot to be paired with classic hiking outfits (yes, that definitely includes lederhosen!), offering a sturdy sole and strong ankle support with stylish traits such as burgundy laces. 
    “Acme” Bavarian boots   
 Our favourite all-rounders have been in our range so long that they don’t even have names: these simple, standard Bavarian boots are available in  dark brown  and  lighter Havana  (to match darker and lighter lederhosen, of course) and have stood the test of time.  Made of 100% buckskin suede and expertly stitched, they’re sure to last a while in your wardrobe, too; nothing – not lengthy hiking excursions, not Oktoberfest mayhem, not winter snows – can get the better of these trusty boots. 
 Of course, even the best of boots can feel chilly (as well as “chafe-y”) &amp;nbsp;without the right socks, so if you decide to get serious this winter, go the whole hog and invest into some  traditional socks , too. We would recommend opting for the classic knee socks: even if you’re wearing a pair of jeans and no-one can see your calves, bunched up around the lower calves, these woollies are guaranteed to keep you warm this winter. 
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2017-11-29T13:00:00+01:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Wiesn 2017: Alpenclassics hits the Oktoberfest</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/oktoberfest/wiesn-2017-alpenclassics-hits-the-oktoberfest</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/oktoberfest/wiesn-2017-alpenclassics-hits-the-oktoberfest"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Another year, another trip to Munich, to the home of dirndl, lederhosen, and (of course) beer! Read about our time there here - and perhaps get a few tips for your visit!
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            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 It&#039;s the work trip that everyone wants to take part in. After all, people who sell dirndls and lederhosen for a living like nothing than getting dresed up for a traditional Bavarian festival - and the Munich Oktoberfest is quite simply the defining event of its kind. So we went to the 184th edition and (who&#039;d have thought it?) had just as much fun as we always do. 
   
 Tradition has it that the first one to spot the sign has to shout, and as soon as it hoved into view, we all started shouting with excitement as the streams of exquisitely clothed Bavarains went past us on their way to their customary tents. Around us, too, many of the tourists had made a special effort, with lederhosen and dirndl dresses in the very clear majority - many of them really rather authentic, even if the wearers were speaking English! 
 Our first stop was the Ocshenbraterei tent, famous for its roast oxen and redesigned this year to be larger and more comfortable. We couldn&#039;t miss it, though, as the front had retained the key design principles (a revolving model spitroast ox). And the actual meat was as tasty as ever! 
    
 With our bellies lined and one beer in, we went for our customary walk around the fairground. We&#039;re big fans of traditional rides like the &quot;Krinoline&quot;, a topsy-turvy merry-go-round named after the floaty, wire-framed skirts of yesteryear accompanied by a brass band, and always take the opportunity to try our hand at crossbow archery (&quot;Armbrustschiessen&quot;). 
    
 Later that day, we were meeting some friends in another tent - and one which also has something to do with crossbows (the name is &quot;The Crossbowmen&#039;s Tent&quot;), even if we didn&#039;t shoot here. We did, however, experience the highly traditional cracking of the whips, &quot;Goasslschnalzen&quot; (if by &quot;experience&quot;, you mean almost lost eyes too). And of course, here too, we enjoyed some hearty cuisine and a few beers... 
    
 Which mean that some of us felt in the mood to go home, while other decided to stay on. And so we went our separate ways, with of our party spotting that other traditional figure, a Scotsman playing bagpipes, as others kept on enjoying the Oktoberfest way into the evening... If you&#039;re going, we hope you have a great time and are happy to do what we can when it comes to getting you  dressed up appropriately . 
    &amp;nbsp; 
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2017-09-29T11:15:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Ten things Oktoberfest first-timers need to know</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/news/ten-things-oktoberfest-first-timers-need-to-know</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/news/ten-things-oktoberfest-first-timers-need-to-know"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            An Oktoberfest first-timer? here are our ten most important important facts, tips, and tricks for Wiesn newbies. Read, learn, and use!
                                        ]]>
            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 An Oktoberfest first-timer? First off: congratulations! Sometimes, we wish it was our first time again. We&#039;ll never forget what a fantastic experience it is to walk into a beer tent for the very first time ever, to taste that first sip of golden Oktoberfest brew... 
 What we&#039;ll also never forget, though, is just how much we got wrong when we too were Oktoberfest first-timers. Just to think back to some of our  faux pas  makes us, as the experienced Wiesn-goers we now are, cringe. And then there&#039;s the stuff that we didn&#039;t get wrong exactly, but could have done better - and wish we&#039;d found out about earlier. 
 So in that spirit, here are our ten most important important facts, tips, and tricks for Oktoberfest first-timers. 
  1. “Wiesn” is pronounced “veesn”  In Munich, “the Oktoberfest” is called  die Wiesn , pronounced a V (like &quot;veer&quot;, &quot;verdict&quot;, and &quot;vavavoom!&quot;) and a long E (like &quot;need&quot;, &quot;feed&quot;, and &quot;beer&quot; if you&#039;re Australian). 
  2. The key words to get beer   Obviously, you’ll want to know how to order one of said beers. Served in a tankard containing a liter (i.e. two pints) known as a “Mass”, beer is ordered as followed: “ Eine Mass, bitte schön ” (ay-ner mass, bitteh shewn). 
   
  3. Tip to get ahead  Three key facts: A) Drinkers pay for each round of beer on delivery to the table. B) Tables are generally covered all day by the same waiter or waitress; you will not be able to beckon over other members of staff. C) Later in the session, it will become increasingly difficult for this one waiter/waitress to bring over beer to keep everyone on their patch of tables satisfied. 
 The conclusion from this is obvious: think of the first tip to your waiter/waitress as a statement of intent that will put a smile on their face - and keep them coming back to your table first. 
  4. Sit to drink   You can only order beer sat down, so don’t even try standing around in the beer garden (or, even more annoyingly for staff and fellow drinkers, in the tent between the tables) waving money around. It just won&#039;t work - and in many tents, security staff will be dispatched to, ahem, deal with the blockage. 
  5. Sit to drink (cont.)   If you can’t get a seat, there&#039;s a simple trick: wait until someone needs to find the facilities and ask if you can “hot seat” to place your order. When that person comes back, you&#039;ll have your beer and go and stand out of the way in the beer garden. 
  6. Stand to dance  Later in the evening, drinkers stand up on the benches to belt out their favourite hits as they dance with each other. Yes, it&#039;s officially allowed and no, it&#039;s not rude to link arms with those next to you on the benches (even if you&#039;ve only just met). 
  7. Stand to dance (cont.)   Don&#039;t, however, try standing on the tables. That will get you thrown out of the tent more or less immediately. No, we don&#039;t know why benches are allowed by tables aren&#039;t, but that&#039;s the way the cookie crumbles... 
   8. Watch out for reservations   Getting a reservation at the Oktoberfest is so difficult that almost no-one ever cancels. If you see a reserved sign (and roughly half the tables in the tent will have one on them), don&#039;t sit down and hope for the best: you will get moved on and, by then, all the unreserved tables will have disappeared. Be clever and get to these unreserved ones first! And on that point: don&#039;t listen to anyone else who comes along and tries to tell you that, in actual fact, those tables  are  reserved. Just like everywhere else in the world, if a table is reserved, there will be a notice on it. The only people who can tell you to move are tent staff. 
  9. Don&#039;t follow the herd   Year after year, everyone heads for the same five tents. British, American, and Australian tourists flock to Hofbräu, Munich&#039;s trendies storm Schützenfestzelt, Hacker, and Augustiner, and the younger drinkers swarm into Schottenhamel from 9am on. You can try and join them (and face stiff competition for seats), or just head to any of the other 11 big tents. You&#039;ll have a great time in all of them. And besides the big tents, there are around a dozen smaller beer tents which, in terms of atmosphere and ambiance, are easily the equal of the more famous establishments: Schichtl and Zur Bratwurst are two particularly special locations. 
  10. Leave your backpacks at home   This rule is new as of 2016 and is especially important for visitors from abroad who may have luggage on their days or arrival and departure: for security purposes, large backpacks will be banned from the entire Oktoberfest site. Avoid disappointment by leaving baggage at the hotel or in a locker and keeping handbags small. 
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2017-09-13T12:15:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Last-minute Wiesn outfits</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/news/last-minute-wiesn-outfits</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/news/last-minute-wiesn-outfits"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Still shopping around for the right lederhosen or dirndl and running out of time? Don&#039;t panic: your search ends here!
                                        ]]>
            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 That’s right: yes, it  is  early September and, no, you  don’t  have your Oktoberfest outfit sorted out yet. Damnit! This was the year you really wanted to make a big splash – you’ve even promised friends in Munich that you’re going to go all out and get  Bayerisch , and now this… Nothing suitable for an affordable price on the net. The Oktoberfest begins in precisely ten days. Panic strikes. 
 But before you go nuts, jump on the plane, and charge towards the first tourist-trap stall at Munich main station or the shop next to your hotel, make sure you finish reading this! Why? Because we’ve got Oktoberfest outfits ready to ship that can be with you in 24 hours in Germany or 48 hours elsewhere in Europe. Based States-side? Don’t worry: our maximum delivery time is 5 working days. Wherever you buy, we offer a right of return if you’re not satisfied. So if you hurry, that is enough time to order, receive, and try on your outfit before you leave. If it doesn’t fit or suit, we might even be able to get the right size to you before you leave! 
 It’s unlikely you’ll need to send your outfit back, though, because we provide plenty of sizing information – and almost everyone experiences love at first sight with our lederhosen and dirndls. Looking for outfit suggestions for Bavarian fashion beginners that won’t break the bank? Read on. 
  &amp;nbsp; Hers  For girls looking to buy a first dirndl, there really is nothing better than our modern classic Vienna in blue with rose patterning. Neither too short nor too long, neither too trendy nor too conservative, and just the right colour for almost all skin and hair tones, this dirndl is also a two-piece product – i.e. no need to worry about getting your own apron. In fact, all you need to do is add a simple  dirndl blouse ,  shoes , and a  bag . Two quality pieces for just over £100? You saw it here first! 
 Two-piece dirndl set (Vienna blue, Krüger Madl) 
   His  If you’re buying for the first time, we recommend our men’s sets, which are already gracing several generations of Oktoberfest-going gentlemen. It couldn’t be easier: you tell us your shirt, trouser, and shoe size, and we get you a checked shirt, a pair of lederhosen, and a matching shoes. You also get socks thrown into the bargain – as well as a little extra in the form of a neckerchief. The only decision you have to make is whether you want a darker or a lighter shade of leather, as well as which colour shirt you would like. For once, you’ve got more choices than the girls… 
 But never mind: there’s still time to send it back if you hurry! 
  Five-piece lederhosen set   (Lederhose Justin, brown, shirt Campos2 in apple green, Stockerpooint) 
 &amp;nbsp; 
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2017-09-06T13:00:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Our very own glossary for the Oktoberfest</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/oktoberfest/our-very-own-glossary-for-the-oktoberfest</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/oktoberfest/our-very-own-glossary-for-the-oktoberfest"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            When you’re heading to the Munich Oktoberfest, forget what you think you know about German – because it could well be wrong: it&#039;s time to start learning Bavarian!
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            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 When you’re heading to the Munich Oktoberfest, forget what you think you know about German – because it could well be wrong! “A little knowledge is a dangerous thing”, as the saying goes, and so anyone who, for example, thinks that the dialect word for the Oktoberfest Wiesn is the plural form of eine Wiese and says “Die Wiesn sind…” will look sillier than if they had tried to say something in English. 
   
 Didn’t follow that? Great! Because that means you don’t know enough about German to even make that kind of mistake and can just memorise the following essential Oktoberfest words and phrases. If you know the odd bit of German, then have a look at these and compare notes with our German-language glossary aimed at native speakers looking to improve their understanding of the vagaries of Bavarian dialect. 
 Whatever you do, though, remember to relax and go with the flow. Lots of Bavarians pride themselves on their excellent English and will probably, once you’ve shown your interest with a couple of learned phrases, be very impressed with anything else you manage to remember. 
  A Mass, biddeschee!   The single most important phrase ever: “A tankard of beer, please!” (Vary with  Hendl  for chicken und  Brezel  for a pretzel.) 
  D’Wiesn ist ganz wunderbar heuer, gell?  An authentic ice-breaker: “Isn’t the Oktoberfest fantastic this year?” 
  I mog di  To be used if your flirting gambit (see below) leads to a deeper exchange of views and ideas in the course of the evening. 
   
  I muss amoi bieseln  That’s what you say after you’ve ordered a few litres and need to excuse yourself for obvious reasons. 
  Mei, fesch schaust aus, Madl/Bua!   An opener in the flirt stakes: “My, don’t you look fetching, my girl/my lad!”. ( Fesches Gwand!  or  Fesche Lederhose!  are exclamations in praise of dirndls or lederhosen) 
  Seids aus Minga?  Test the lie of the land by asking “Are you guys from Munich?” 
  Sapralott, des war a Schmarrn!  This is a useful exclamation if you need to forcefully express extreme disappointment at something - e.g. the ratio of foam to beer in your tankard. Also useful in that specific context:&amp;nbsp; Des zeig i beim Verein gegen Betrügerisches Einschenken an!  Yes, Germany has an association for everything, including one which logs incidences of underfilled beer glasses. 
  Zwoa Mass, biddeschee!   The second most important phrase ever: “Two tankards of beer, please!” 
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2017-08-30T13:30:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">The 2017 Oktoberfest fashion trends</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/trends/the-2017-oktoberfest-fashion-trends</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/trends/the-2017-oktoberfest-fashion-trends"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Want to make sure that your outfit doesn’t scream “TOURIST!” at everyone at this year’s Munich Oktoberfest? Then read up on the trends for this year and dress accordingly.
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            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 Want to make sure that your outfit doesn’t scream “TOURIST!” at everyone at this year’s Munich Oktoberfest? Then read up on the trends for this year and dress accordingly, because beyond the classic dirndl ensemble for the ladies and lederhosen+shirt+stockings for the boys, there is a whole world of Bavarian fashion out there – and knowing what’s currently in will not only get you an even warmer welcome in the beer gardens, but help you to tell real Munich insiders from the German tourists, too! 
   So what will clued-up Munich residents be wearing at the 2017 Oktoberfest? Well, it depends a little on the tent. In the classic Munich tents such as Augustiner-Festhalle and Armbrustschützen-Festzelt, you’ll find that people are going more  traditional  than ever before. It’s no longer just about vintage lederhosen or longer, grandma-style dirndls: even the younger lads are getting into loden blazers, silken waitcoats, and jewellery accessories such as charivaris. For the ladies, it’s about complementing that pastel-coloured, lace-detailed dirndl with a matching knitted cardigan and sensible half-heels. 
   The city’s fasionistas, meanwhile – look out for them on their way to Käfer oder Kuffler’s – are rediscovering the  retro  charm of the late 1950s and early 1960s. You might think this is traditional, but it’s actually quite different to the typical lederhosen and dirndl combinations. For the ladies, for example, it means pleated skirts and high-neck blouses (dirndls, of course, have a low neckline and a simple skirt), made Bavarian with floral details and such like. The look is less well-defined for men, of course, but means axing big beards and going very clean-cut. Watch out for sharper, dressier, and less distinctively Bavarian shirts, paired with college jackets given a slight Alpine twist with sewn-on coats of arms or deer-antler embroidery. 
   Every trend, of course, provokes a reaction, and so you’ll also find another type of Munich insider who is going in the opposite direction to tradition and retro – i.e. casual, relaxed, and contemporary. It’s about easy, uncomplicated clothing that retains a Bavarian note without being fuddy-duddy: both for lads and ladies, the basis are lederhosen, short and worn without the classic braces, combined with printed t-shirts and tops and trainers or boots (as opposed to the somewhat inflexible leather brogues traditionally paired with lederhosen). Some are even replacing the leather breeches themselves with denim shorts sporting classic lederhosen features such as the front flap and buckhorn buttons. You’ll see this look among the young, sporty crowd hoping to catch a glimpse of the Bayern Munich team in the Paulaner-Zelt or in the Löwenbräu beer garden. 
 We hope this will help you in your quest to not stick out like a sore, out-of-town thumb! Enjoy the Oktoberfest like a local:  Prost ! 
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2017-08-16T11:15:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Munich style: how to wear your lederhosen</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/munich-style-how-to-wear-your-lederhosen</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/munich-style-how-to-wear-your-lederhosen"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            For many, a pair of lederhosen without shoulder braces is not really a pair of lederhosen. When worn as a fashion item, however, lederhosen are increasingly being paired with belts instead.
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            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                  Customarily, genuine Bavarian lederhosen have strong leather braces slung over the shoulders and often joined across the chests to keep them in place. The &quot;chest panel&quot; connecting the two shoulder braces is frequently embroidered with the name of the village from which the wearer comes surrounded by floral detail or, in the most elaborate models, with Alpine scenes. As such, the braces are an essential in traditional costume outfits and, for many, a pair of lederhosen without them is not really a pair of lederhosen. When worn as a fashion item, however, especially to the Munich Oktoberfest, lederhosen are increasingly being paired with belts instead of braces. 
 There are a few reasons for this. First off, lots of the current Bavarian fashion looks build on the leather shorts as their foundation piece, but draw in a range ofelements such as short-sleeved tops and trainers. The hallmark H-shaped brace straps, however, are intended to be worn with collar shirts, waistcoats, and jackets or blazers; but paired with t-shirts or other simple tops, they can look out of place - silly and childish, almost. Munich men, for instance, have taken to wearing their Bayern München strips with their lederhosen, and as well as looking somewhat ridiculous, braces and chest panels would detract from their team&#039;s insignia. 
  Secondly, it&#039;s about comfort inasmuch as, while lederhosen braces may be the best way to hold up leather breeches as they get wider and looser with wear, they can end up feeling constricting and may even chafe shoulders or nipples through thinner tops. What is more, even Bavarians sometimes have difficulty clambering in and out (especially back out after a session in the beer garden) and so often leave them off for, ahem, &quot;informal days out&quot;, keeping the Full Monty in reserve for weddings and christenings. 
 In fact, on Munich&#039;s Theresienwiese and at other Fests, turning up in a checked shirt with braces is a sure-fire way to mark yourself out as a tourist, especially if you add the neckerchief sold with full sets of lederhosen, shirts, shoes, and socks. After all, it’s the privilege of locals to bend the rules they themselves once invented, and Munich residents have their ways of distancing themselves from the floods of other Germans and people from abroad during the Oktoberfest. It&#039;s not that they don&#039;t like the tourists, but they don&#039;t want to look like them. So if you want to blend in, try combining your lederhosen with a white shirt or Bavarian top -and ditching the braces. 
  The difficulty, of course, is that lederhosen get looser as they are worn - and were never meant to be worn too tight in any case. This means that you need to replace the over-shoulder suspenders with a truly solid belt to make sure your leather breeches stay put – and by &quot;solid&quot;, we don&#039;t mean the shiny black leather belt you wear to the office or the trendy woven belt you have for your holiday shorts. It&#039;s best to go for a full on Bavarian belt made of the same leather as lederhosen: they are fittingly chunky and have big feature buckles that can match the manly bulk of your breeches. 
 If you already have a pair, we have a  range of belts  in various shades of leather, so you should be able to find a match; if you’re buying your lederhosen new, then we&#039;re responding to the change in style by offering shorts with a belt instead of braces: you can choose between a traditional cut which includes buttons for braces (should you decide to wear them at a later date) or a more  radical ,  new  style of lederhosen which dispense with the whole braces-and-bib front, replacing them with a belt and simple zip flies. Less traditional, sure, but still genuine leather - and perfect with a cool tee (or a Bayern Munich strip). 
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2017-08-02T09:00:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Hot Oktoberfest fashion for scorching weather</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/hot-oktoberfest-fashion-for-scorching-weather</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/hot-oktoberfest-fashion-for-scorching-weather"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Anyone taking a summer holiday in southern Germany is well advised to pack beer-garden gear that won’t lead to the sweats. The Oktoberfest can get pretty heated, too...
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            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 If you’ve ever been to Bavaria in the summer, you’ll know just how hot it can get: temperatures push 30 degrees in Munich on a regular basis, and even in the surrounding uplands, the June, July, and August heat can be stifling. So anyone taking a summer holiday in southern Germany is well advised to pack beer-garden gear that won’t lead to the sweats. What is more, even in late September at the Oktoberfest, daily highs in the upper twenties are not unusual (although neither are week-long periods of rain: autumn is changeable). And whatever the weather, in a beer tent, the temperature heats up during the day as the throngs get denser and thousands of drinkers exude warmth as they dance away on the benches… As such, it’s never a bad idea to adapt your beer-fest clothing to the heat: here’s our guide on how to do it. 
   For her   
  When the mercury’s rising, it’s about exposing your skin to the air and avoiding constricting clothing. Unfortunately, as good as they look, dirndls are based on a corset-style mid-section that is uncomfortable on very hot days. As such, we recommend switching your look to shorts and off-shoulder blouses. 
 Doesn’t sound very traditional? There are  ladies’ lederhosen  made of real leather but short enough to be comfortable even on the hottest of days; you can also opt for contemporary linen or poly-cotton  shorts  with traditional features.  Combine them with any one of the wide range of  blouses  and tops which combine customary Bavarian elements such as check, lace frills, and lace-ups with of-the-moment trends such as oil-washes, prints, and off-shoulder cuts. 
 Complete the casual look with ballerinas, open-toed pumps, or on-trend Bavarian chucks and accessorise with  chains  and bracelets so that you feel festive and “dressed up” despite the skimpy garments. This is the way to keep cool – and stay hot as the midday sun! 
    For him    
 Historically speaking, traditional clothes have always left men more freedom than they accorded to their female wearers, and Bavaria is no exception. As such, men wearing lederhosen can do a lot to make themselves feel more comfortable in the heat by loosening the leather lacing on the back and rolling up their shirt-sleeves. What is more, the older the lederhosen, the more pliable and comfortable it is, even on warm days. 
 Nevertheless, when temperatures head north of 30°C, the boys’ only option is to switch to more contemporary styles, so besides short lederhosen, we also offer Bavarian  jeans shorts  and other traditional looks made of cotton which are both more comfortable and fully washable if you do get into a sweat. Just swap the full shirt for one of our  short-sleeved tees  and trade in the time-honoured – but inflexible – Bavarian brogues for breathable sneakers and  sandals  (both available with an Alpine twist). 
  With these summer styles, you’ll look like a true Bavarian – but not of the kind that would have had to break off their beer-garden excursion for a three-hour afternoon nap in the heat, scratching the heat-rash under their felt hat... Instead, you can enjoy the warm weather the way everyone should! 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2017-07-19T10:15:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Working at an Oktoberfest event? What to wear</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/working-at-an-oktoberfest-event-what-to-wear</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/working-at-an-oktoberfest-event-what-to-wear"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            If you’re going to be working as a waiter or waitress at an Oktoberfest event, then you’ll probably be required to dress the part. Most of the guests will be there in dirndls and lederhosen, so you’re going to need a suitably Bavarian style: and we&#039;ve got what you need.
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            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 If you’re going to be working as a waiter or waitress at an Oktoberfest event, then you’ll probably be required to dress the part. After all, most of the guests will be there in dirndls and lederhosen, so you’re going to need a suitably Bavarian style; at the same time, though, you need make sure you are visible as a member of staff and instantly recognisable to people wanting beer – even at more, ahem, advanced stages of the evening. And on top of all of that, you need to stay professional. 
 It’s a tough one to pull off, so if you’re looking for advice on what to wear as an Oktoberfest waiter or waitress, then look no further. Unless your employer has an official uniform, then it’s down to you to get it right – and we’re here to help with a few outfit suggestions for working at Oktoberfest events. We base our looks on what professional full-timers in Munich and Bavaria wear at the Oktoberfest and similar fairs, and in the region’s famous beer halls and beer gardens. 
 The good news? Dirndls and lederhosen were made for hardworking country folk, so they’re pretty robust and can stand up to a fair degree of punishment. The downside? You can’t be quite as creative and have quite as much fun as the guests. 
    Bavarian waitress outfit   
 The most important thing for girls serving at Oktoberfests is to wear a dirndl; the second most important thing is to make sure that they remain clearly distinguishable from all the other dirndl-wearers among paying guests. The best way to achieve this is to opt for a more serious, longer style of dirndl in darker colours and without too many decorative elements. 
 Short-short dirndls are a no-go, as are bright colours – not only for standing out from the crowds, but also to help you feel confident and competent when dealing with tables of gents not necessarily used to beer in large measures. Opt for a minimum skirt-length of 70cm and complement the look with elbow-length sleeves on the blouse; swap shiny, festive aprons for washable cotton pinafores (yes, you will need to wash them). 
 We offer a  wide range of traditional, long black dirndls  at over 90cm and around €75; to go with these single-piece dresses, we also stock a full range of  dirndl blouses  and a full  selection of aprons  in plain colours such as forest, berry, and dark blue which are perfect for Oktoberfest work. All of these traditional dirndls and accessories are made of cotton and polyester, making them easily washable; price-wise, there’s nothing to stop you buying two or three sets so that you’ve got a change of uniform just in case. 
    Bavarian waiter outfit   
 Munich waiters tend to wear lederhosen paired up with shirts and, most importantly, a waistcoat. In fact, at the Oktoberfest, you are more likely to see a waiter in normal trousers than one without a waistcoat. So join them and get that professional look with one of our   traditional Bavarian  waistcoats . The great thing about our wide range is that you can match the colour to the event if required, and we offer everything from leather vests through to satin-look smart waistcoats, allowing you to tone the look to just the kind of Oktoberfest event in question. Go for a standard gingham check shirt under the waistcoat to make yourself unmistakably Bavarian; avoid t-shirts and, for practical reasons (i.e. spills, sweat), white shirts. 
 In terms of lederhosen, we’d recommend knee-length breeches; these are the most traditional and will keep your knees and thighs out of sight from your customers at table-height – and protected from the inevitable spillage when carrying large amounts of beer. On that note, our last tip is not strictly about your uniform: remember to do some work on your upper-body and core strength prior to starting… 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2017-06-21T11:15:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Oktoberfest blouses: boyfriend look or &#039;granny knows best&#039;?</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/trends/oktoberfest-blouses-boyfriend-look-or-granny-knows-best</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/trends/oktoberfest-blouses-boyfriend-look-or-granny-knows-best"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Dirndl blouses are crop-tops made to be part of the traditional dirndl dress. An Oktoberfest blouse, though, is a full top designed to go with women’s lederhosen, Bavarian-style jeans, or traditional skirts
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                <![CDATA[
                 First, let’s start off by defining our terms: when we say “Oktoberfest blouses”, we don’t mean “ dirndl blouses ”. Dirndl blouses are crop-top blouses made specifically to work as part of the traditional dirndl dress, which makes them more underwear than anything else. An Oktoberfest blouse, however, is quite a new item. It’s a full top designed to go with women’s lederhosen, with Bavarian-style jeans, or with traditional skirts. And as Oktoberfest outfits which don’t centre on dirndls have become more popular, from this season on, we’re offering an extended range of blouses to make sure our customers have something to combine with every kind of Bavarian style. 
    Checked blouses – just right for jeans   
 Want the boyfriend look; don’t want to actually look like your boyfriend? We and the good people at Orbis hear you, and have a range of  checked   blouses  with the emphasis on “blouse”, not shirt. Combine them with three-quarter-length Bavarian jeans and pretty  Alpine necklaces  for a gutsy, but feminine, look. 
 If you really want to beat the boys at their own game, though, then Orbis has also got some shirt-shirts for ladies which look gret with lederhosen. They’re almost not blouses at all, but thanks to their tailored shape, they’ll still show off you figure. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
   
   Lots of white, frills, and flowers – granny knows best   
 For a few seasons now, the vintage look has been big: simple, reserved colours, gentle patterns, and classic details – not to mention whole categories of clothes which had long been considered dead an buried. Like knee-length pleated skirts, for example, which are to come roaring back this year, bringing frilly, yet not overly-mumsy  blouses  along with them as the look of the season 
 . 
 There’s no need to go full-out matron-y, though, if you don’t want to: frilly blouses also work very well with lederhosen, jeans, and other trousers, as another  Orbis line  shows;  contrasting colours  on the ruffles, frills, and buttons can also add another layer of detail, helping to create an outfit that is as sophisticated as it is contemporary. 
    Flowery and off-the-shoulder – blouses for girls   
 Despite all the new styles and the popularity of vintage throwbacks, even the word “blouse” can be a turn-off for some: sounds a bit like something a school-mistress would wear, right? Wrong! Off-shoulder Oktoberfest blouses are decidedly young and slightly risqué; matching this cut with floral patterning creates girly, playful tops that work perfectly with lederhosen and  sneakers . 
  Sleeveless tops  too can help to pep up an Oktoberfest outfit and make it that bit more. Then again, sometimes, just a few details such as piping and ribbing are enough to make a light blue-grey-green coloured blouse into a real statement piece. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2017-06-07T12:15:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">From lumberjacks to licenced traders: the right Oktoberfest shirt for everyone</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/trends/from-lumberjacks-to-licenced-traders-the-right-oktoberfest-shirt-for-everyone</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/trends/from-lumberjacks-to-licenced-traders-the-right-oktoberfest-shirt-for-everyone"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            A pair of lederhosen will be around for years, trusty and sturdy, so the shirt worn with it is the only option for anyone looking to bring some variety into their Bavarian outfit. And variety, we&#039;ve got...
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                 As Bavarian fashion experts say: “A lederhosen is for life – a shirt is for a season.” Now, that might be something of an exaggeration: surprise, surprise, some guys actually buy a new pair of leather breeches at some point – either because they fancy something different or due to  force majeure  (i.e. water damage) – and some even own several pairs at once. What’s more, when you’ve found your favourite shirt, you’ll generally end up wearing until it falls off, right? Nevertheless, there is some truth to the statement because a pair of lederhosen will be around for years, trusty and sturdy, so the shirt worn with it is the only option for anyone looking to bring some variety into their Bavarian outfit. 
 And in terms of variety, this is a season like no other: there are  more styles and a wider choice in each category of shirt  than ever before. Whether you’re after a checked shirt and want your pick of patterns or would rather go for something more formal in purest white; whether you want to go full Farmer Giles with a drawstring across the chest or want to look sharp in a fashionable floral patterned shirt: there’s something for every situation and for every style. So whether you’re the lumberjack-type or more of an off-duty licenced trader, whether you’re out all day hiking in the Alps or you’ve been invited to a Bavarian wedding, our Oktoberfest shirts give you your choice of looks so that you can wear your lederhosen on every occasion. Read on for a selection of our favourite styles. 
    Classic checked   
 Gingham check is  the  classic Bavarian shirt pattern. While in recent years these small squares have often been written off as old fashioned (“Why would you want to wear something that looks like a tablecloth?”), this season, they’re coming back around as part of the overall trend towards vintage. What’s more, we never actually saw what the problem with checked shirts is, anyway; quite to the contrary, because you can’t beat a classic. The traditional Bavarian check shirt is just right for the Oktoberfest and similar beer fests when you need to look well-dressed but not overly smart. 
 Pro tip: if you really do think you look like your granddad in Gingham check, mix things up a bit by going for  a short-sleeved version . 
    Lumberjack look   
 If you’re the kind of guy that likes to go for a more rough-edged look, then we’d recommend our new set of lumberjack shirts. Yes, we’ll admit it: it’s hipsters that got us thinking about them – but you don’t need big glasses and a big beard to look good in one of these. Bonus: you can wear them with a pair of jeans, too. After all, just like denim, lumberjack shirts and lederhosen are both fashion versions of genuine robust utility wear, so they all fit together rather well. 
 And so while the  tartan check  and details like buttons on the arms to hold rolled-up sleeves are primarily fashion details, they also make this type of shirt into a genuinely functional piece of clothing that is just right if you like a little light activity before your afternoon in the beer garden… 
     Granddad-look    
 Known as  Pfoad  in Bavarian dialect, these granddad shirts almost slipped into complete oblivion before staging a comeback in recent years. They only have two or three buttons up to the collar and need to be pulled over/off, so we’re in real old-fashioned territory here (once, a “button-down shirt” was Sunday best or a sign that you were no longer a farm labourer). 
 If you’re into looks even older than vintage, then these traditional costume shirts are just right for you. Opt for a full linen version if you want to stay true to the original and if the temperatures are headed upwards; a polyester-cotton version looks somewhat sharper and gives the style a modern twist. 
    Going-out shirt   
 If you count upper-middle-class Munich residents among your acquaintances, then you’ll know how they dress during the Oktoberfest: lederhosen and a smart shirt so that they can head into the office in the morning and then make an early exit towards the tents. You’ll see them later on in Augustiner or Schützenfestzelt, two buttons open and two litres in. The choice is between a genuine Trachten shirt that doesn’t look too obviously Oktoberfesty (plain white with a few details like buckhorn buttons) or a smart shirt with a few Bavarian elements. Our  newest shirts this season  combine smart features like two-tone patterning or cuff interiors in contrasting colours with nods to Bavarian traditions such as embroidered stags. 
 So if you’ve just started a new job in Munich and are unsure of how to proceed on Oktoberfest days, remember: stay seated at your desk and the boss will never know that you’re planning to slip out mid-afternoon. Until you run across him in Armbrustschützen-Festzelt, of course... 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2017-05-24T12:15:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Dirndl underwear: Just the right thing for every dress</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/dirndl-underwear-just-the-right-thing-for-every-dress</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/dirndl-underwear-just-the-right-thing-for-every-dress"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            One of the things that women love most about dirndls is the way they emphasise feminine charms without showing too much. But without the right underwear, it&#039;s difficult to pull off the look.
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                <![CDATA[
                 One of the things that dirndl-wearers love most about this traditional German dress is the way it emphasises feminine charms without showing too much: in these times of mercilessly figure-hugging leggings, stretch-tops, and spray-on jeans, it’s almost liberating to be able to cover up. Nevertheless, if it is to achieve its full effect, a dirndl dress needs a little help – in the form of suitable  underwear . 
 After all, you’re aiming for the hour-glass shape – slim at the middle and broader at the top and bottom – and to get it, it’s just not enough to tie up the bodice ever tighter. In fact, not only is that not enough: it’s the completely wrong way to go about it! Having what feels like a Victorian whalebone corset squeezing around your tummy is a sure-fire way to spoil your appetite and makes drinking a litre of beer absolute torture. The best way forward to is to take a tip from grandma and start using old-style underwear of the kind that has almost been forgotten. If you wear a dirndl bra and blouse up top and petticoats under the skirt, the dirndl dress will fill out at both ends, creating just the curves you’re after and making you waist look waspish. 
 Take it from us: we like ladies to feel good wearing our dirndls, and so we offer a full range of matching underwear in all of the right colours and lengths to make sure that your dirndl – and your figures – look their very best. 
   Up top: dirndl bra and dirndl blouse   
    Dirndl blouses  aren’t, strictly speaking,  underwear ; rather, they’re the  most visible piece of clothing  that you might, perhaps, also refer to as underwear. After all, much of their surface is covered by the dirndl bodice. The visible bits, however, are important, as they set the shape of the outfit across the shoulders. Using puff sleeves, for instance, makes you look broader across the top – and, inversely, narrower at the middle. If you’ve already got a very curvy shape, though, you might want to look at wearing thinner, tighter shoulder-sleeves.. 
 That’s very important is the colour, which should suit the rest of the outfit. That’s why we offer white, black and several colours in between. The same is true of our bras, which are available in both white and black: with diagonal cups and padding, all of them give you the boost you need for real dirndl cleavage; the straps are positioned towards the edge of the shoulder so that you can combine the bras with a range of blouses, including off-shoulder models. 
   On the legs: petticoats and bloomers   
   All things told, dirndl petticoats have always had three key functions. First and foremost, they’re there to fill out the skirt and apron. Valances and voluminous hems push out skirts towards the bottom, which in turn emphasises a slim waist and – as a bonus – makes your legs look longer. Secondly, petticoats help to trap warm air around your legs (in winter, generations of women would have shivered without several underskirts). 
 The third thing petticoats do is to keep unwanted eyes at bay while you’re sitting or standing on a bench, swaying to and fro to Oktoberfest music. A light dirndl skirt is liable to get caught in a passing draft, and getting up on the benches with everyone else can make things worse. If you want to go for a shorter, cheekier dirndl, we’d recommend going  real  grandma and getting a pair of bloomers, by the way. These comfortable  mid-thigh underpants  will keep you safe from prying eyes – but, thanks to their frilly hems, will still look nice and feminine if anyone should happen to catch a glance… 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2017-04-05T12:15:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Our pick of the 2017 lederhosen</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/trends/our-pick-of-the-2017-lederhosen</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/trends/our-pick-of-the-2017-lederhosen"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            With most of the new 2017 Bavarian fashion collections now on the market in time for the spring Strong Beer Festivals, there’s no time like the present to look at buying a new pair of lederhosen
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                <![CDATA[
                 With most of the new 2017 Bavarian fashion collections now on the market in time for the spring Strong Beer Festivals, there’s no time like the present to look at buying a new  pair of lederhosen . Whether you already own genuine Bavarian leather breeches which have seen a few too many Oktoberfests, or whether this will be your first pair, there’s something new for everyone – from good-value starter lederhosen through to real collectors’ pieces. To get you started, here are our three favourites for 2017 
   Edelweiß floral embroidery – authentic Bavarian detail   
 Historically, lederhosen have not been particularly flashy; it was all about quality workmanship and design understatement: i.e. black or dark brown leather, embroidery (but not overdone), and traditional shapes. Then, there was a serious rebellion against these limitations, with lederhosen turning up in all kinds of colours – often overly brash. And as necessary as this may have been in order to show just how much is possible with a piece of leather, it all got a bit out of hands 
   Now the point has been made, however, new ideas can be incorporated into lederhosen without things getting too out of hand. So we’re seeing  all sorts of new shapes  (2015-16 saw flaps replaced with flies in some models, for example   left  ) with tried-and-tested colours, and a renewed focus getting creative with classic design elements such as embroidery. The new  Krüger Buam short lederhosen , for example (  right  ), features Edelweiß floral patterning on the bib and matching heraldry on the thigh-pocket. The traditional brown leather gets a contemporary twist on the thighs, too, where the traditional garlands have given way – unremarkably at first glance – to a bare-bone deer skull and antlers. 
   Lederhosen-style jeans - starter model   
 Denim jeans in lederhosen style first came out a while back, and since then, they’ve gone on to established themselves as the alternative for anyone who wants to try out wearing lederhosen but is unsure about diving in at deep end – i.e. wary of a heavy feel (especially in hotter weather) or needing to travel light (headed for the Oktoberfest). Being able to just throw them in the wash is another real plus-point. 
   With their simple blue jeans featuring a classic Bavarian flap instead of a fly, Stockerpoint got the whole thing going (this  ground-breaking classic ,   left  , is still available), and now it’s Marjo who have gone to  the next stage  this year by adding typical lederhosen details such as knife pockets and thigh-side ribbons to lederhosen jeans (  right  ). What is more, with their beige leather-tones, this pair are the perfect choice for an authentic lederhosen look in comfortable denim feel. Do &quot;lederhosen jeans&quot; sound like something of a trend? Yes. It&#039;s hard to see them still being around in 100 years. But then again, they&#039;re a fun trend that combines too of the manliest, most hard-wearing trousers ever invented. So we see them lasting a good few years... 
   Deerskin lifetime lederhosen - an investment for the future   
 If it’s not trends you’re after, though, but an absolute classic so timeless and so well-made that you’ll be passing it onto your grandkids, then look no further: Stockerpoint has got  the pair for you : deerskin (rather than the standard buckskin), classic design, beautiful detail... And remember, if you divide the price by the number of years you and your successors will be wearing them, then they only cost about £10 annually…! 
   
 &amp;nbsp; 
 &amp;nbsp; 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2017-03-22T11:45:00+01:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Can you wash lederhosen? And should you?</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/news/can-you-wash-lederhosen-and-should-you</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/news/can-you-wash-lederhosen-and-should-you"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                             if you can’t put your pair of lederhosen in the wash, and if they look better used anyway, why would anyone even think of washing them? Well...
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                <![CDATA[
                 Lederhosen are not trousers just like any other &amp;ndash; everyone knows that. With their robustness in the face of years of use, they have always been made to face wear and tear, which is why &amp;ndash; just like good traditional jeans and biker&amp;rsquo;s jackets &amp;ndash; they are a darn site cooler once they&amp;rsquo;ve got some wear and tear, the off scuff and scratch to show their age. So crucial is the vintage look to lederhosen&amp;rsquo;s appeal that many of the most popular new designs come ready-distressed. This means that the most obvious answer to the title question is &amp;ldquo;No way!&amp;rdquo;. 
 All the more since you can&amp;rsquo;t just put leathers into washing machine with everything else. Textiles like cotton, linen, and synthetic fibres can handle warm water and detergents, but leather &amp;ndash; despite being able to stand up to a lifetime of Alpine agricultural use &amp;ndash; just can&amp;rsquo;t. This is, in fact, the one area in which leather breeches are more demanding that suits, dresses and other things that need dry cleaning: outside of Bavaria, you can&amp;rsquo;t just take them to the cleaners and pick them up a week later (Bavaria, of course, has specialised lederhosen restorers&amp;hellip;). 
 So if you can&amp;rsquo;t put your pair of lederhosen in the wash, and if they look better used anyway, why would anyone even think of washing them? 
  Reasons to wash lederhosen  
  There are, however, plenty of reasons to take care of your favourite lederhosen &amp;ndash; especially at this time of year, when you couldn&amp;rsquo;t be further away from the Oktoberfest and you&amp;rsquo;ve got months on end in which you won&amp;rsquo;t need to wear them. While small marks or signs of use here may be part of the look, you might have noticed some larger stains that looked like badges of honour in the hungover dimness of last autumn, but which, on sober inspection a few months later, appear to be somewhat more serious&amp;hellip; 
 Furthermore, beyond its appearance, leather covered by an overly-thick a layer of dirt &amp;ndash; often lovingly-but-wrongly thought of as part and parcel of the &amp;ldquo;vintage look&amp;rdquo; &amp;ndash; can no longer breathe. And when leather can&amp;rsquo;t breathe, it gets stiffer, less comfortable, and sweatier to wear. 
 So whether it&amp;rsquo;s slightly out-of-control dirt or a couple of bad stains you&amp;rsquo;ve noticed, your lederhosen needs a bit of care and attention. That doesn&amp;rsquo;t mean cleaning them, though, as you might expect, but washing them in water. Sounds wrong, right? As mentioned above, water can be damaging to leather. But leather should be washed wet, because it&amp;rsquo;s not the water itself, but strong detergents, fast spin-cycles, and changes in temperature that do damage. 
  How to wash your lederhosen  
 So if your favourite leathers need a spruce up before this year&amp;rsquo;s summer festivals and, of course, the Oktoberfest, here&amp;rsquo;s how to do it: 
 1. Wash by hand in a bowl of lukewarm water. 
 2. Use a natural soap especially for leather (check organic stores or  try this ). 
 3. After washing, dry slowly at room temperature, moving them regularly and bringing them into shape as you do so. 
 5. Once dry, kneed the leather gently and then brush it to return it to its original form. 
 Sounds like a lot of work, right? Bingo! It is. But your personal favourite lederhosen will reward you by lasting another five-to-ten years. A lot of work? Sounds like a good deal. 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2017-03-08T12:30:00+01:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Why do you need a dirndl blouse?</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/why-do-you-need-a-dirndl-blouse</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/why-do-you-need-a-dirndl-blouse"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            &quot;A dirndl” is in fact made of three things: the actual dress, the apron, and the dirndl blouse - so dirndl dresses have bodices which are designed assuming that you’ll be wearing a specially cropped top
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            </summary>
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                <![CDATA[
                  As a newcomer to the whole dirndl thing, you could be forgiven for thinking: “Dirndl blouse? Sounds like an excuse to upsell me something I don’t need.” After all, there’s no shortage of questionable accessory products out there – it’s almost impossible to by even a pair of trainers nowadays without being offered a special “trainer cleaning sponge” (it’s just a sponge) and “sneaker inserts” (really, they’re just normal insoles). But a dirndl blouse really is a) very different to a normal blouse and b) quite essential. 
  That’s because “a dirndl” is in fact a combination of three things: the actual dirndl dress, the apron, and the  dirndl blouse . Dirndl dresses have bodices which are designed under the assumption that you’ll be wearing a specially cropped top, and indeed many dirndls are sold with matching pieces. Some, however, aren’t, in which case you’ll need to source one separately; and even if your dirndl comes with a blouse, it’s always a good idea to buy another two or three so that you can rotate them (you’ll need to wash the blouse far more often than you’ll need to get the dress cleaned). 
  Another reason you might want to add an extra dirndl blouse or two to your basket is so that you can kit out your dirndl for different occasions and times of year: although all dirndl tops are cropped under the bosom so that the bodice fits snugly around the midriff, they offer varying degrees of cleavage and shoulder cover and also come with a variety of different sleeve lengths.  You’ll find everything from elbow or even full-length sleeves for colder weather through to light off-the-shoulder numbers for when the mercury’s rising; then there’s the choice between skimpier, come-hither numbers with plunging necklines and more formal attire with ruffles, ruche, and far less flesh on show. Some blouses feature sheer lace on the arms, for example, combining modesty with allure, while others using braiding and puffs to increase the breadth of shoulders, helping to emphasise slimness at the waist. In short: whatever kind of dirndl look you want to achieve, the cut, material, and design of the blouse is essential. 
  The majority of dirndl blouses are white, and most dirndl designers either include a matching top or assume that you’ll be wearing a white one. Some designs, however, are made to go with a black blouse – generally more formal evening wear – and there’s an increasing number of creams and beiges out there, as well as white blouses livened up with tonal details such as coloured embroidery, hem-stitching, or even buttons. 
 With around 60 different blouses on offer, we’re sure to have exactly the one you’re looking for. So get inspired and see how you can use blouses to compliment your dirndl – and perhaps even save you buying another one. See? That’s the very opposite of upselling… 
 &amp;nbsp; 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2017-02-08T12:00:00+01:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Plus-Size Dirndls: The Cinderella Dresses</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/bestseller/plus-size-dirndls-the-cinderella-dresses</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/bestseller/plus-size-dirndls-the-cinderella-dresses"/>
            <summary type="html">
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                                            The dirndl was once worn by women of every age and size – worn, what is more, by Bavarian women, who are not exactly famous for their waspish waist. So we&#039;re going back to the roots with plus-size dirndls.
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                <![CDATA[
                 If you’ve been out there on the internet looking for dirndl dresses sized 20 (US: 16) and upwards, you might have come away with the impression that there are no Oktoberfest dirndls out there for these size categories. This is ridiculous when you think about the traditional nature of the dirndl, about the fact that it was once worn by women of every age and size – worn, what is more, by Bavarian women, who are not exactly famous for their waspish waists… And to add insult to injury, the dirndls that are out there in sizes 20 to 28 often feel like afterthoughts with a limited colour and style repertoire. 
 It’s the classic Cinderella problem in fashion: all of the attention gets focussed elsewhere, and poor old Cinders has to make do with whatever’s left. That’s why so many plus-size dirndls have the same tired floral patterns and colours year in, year out and are always, always ankle-length: the mistaken assumption is that only older women need larger sizes, and that older women don’t like bright colours or playful design. We’re pretty sure that women who take sizes 20 to 28 would like as much choice as everyone else. 
 Which is why we have put our money where our mouth is and are offering a nine-piece&amp;nbsp; Dirrndl PLUS SIZE collection  with a full range of colours and styles: shorter 60cm dirndls in bright, trendy shades such as turquoise are balanced with traditional models featuring floral patterns; there are also longer, more formal 70cm dresses featuring shimmering fabrics and lots of premium design details. 
   
 Take  Agnes , for example, a  fantastic all-rounder with apricot and nude tones . With its contemporary, yet traditional rose patterning and its smoky-pink apron with a sheen finish, it’s a party eye-catcher that works as well at a beer garden table as in a restaurant. What is more, it’s a full three-piece outfit dispatched with blouse and apron. 
   
  Gelia  is another  plus-size dirndl in apricot , its pink ribbons and cords contrasted by a deep, dark royal blue background. With its floral pattern, the apron is a stand-out addition to this contemporary, but by no mean lightweight or throwaway dress: in Bavaria, this is the kind of dirndl that some girls might even wear to the office. 
  Ladies who need a plus-size dirndl for more formal occasions will love our collection, too: the  three-piece 70cm   Lelia  model in berry and silver features sophisticated, understated jacquard-style fabric set off by a shimmering silver apron which is as glamorous as it is classy. The two-tone ribbon lacing at the front of the dress underscores the colour contrast and ties the who ensemble together in a low-key but effective way. 
 So if you’re wondering where all the hearty Bavarian lasses come to get their dirndls, wonder no more: Cinderalla, you  shall  go to the ball! 
 ! 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2017-01-11T09:45:00+01:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Christmas stocking fillers: Bavarian socks</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/news/christmas-stocking-fillers-bavarian-socks</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/news/christmas-stocking-fillers-bavarian-socks"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            It’s a shame for Bavarians that they don’t have the tradition of leaving stockings out, because knee-length socks can hold a lot of presents!
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                 It&amp;rsquo;s a shame for Bavarians that they don&amp;rsquo;t have the tradition of leaving stockings out, because if they did, we boys would do very well out of it: just look at all those knee-length stockings men wear with their lederhosen! We&amp;rsquo;d hang one of those long woolly Bavarian socks out for Saint Nick any day! If you already have a stocking, though, and keep getting pestered by insistent mothers, girlfriends, and wives asking you what you want for Christmas, why not suggest Bavarian socks as your stocking filler of choice? It&amp;rsquo;s either that or yet another pair of Star Wars footbags that you won&amp;rsquo;t be able to wear to work and that will most likely be made of some horrible sweat-inducing nylon material&amp;hellip; Instead, why not suggest some proper woollen Bavarian socks? Not only can you wear them with your lederhosen to the Oktoberfest, but the shorter-length woollies make ideal hiking socks for heavy-duty boots, too. 
 Bavarian socks: never a better time 
 There&amp;rsquo;s never been a better time to  start stocking up on stockings , either, as several manufacturers have cottoned on to the fact that Oktoberfest goers from abroad are fed up of being beat in the socks stakes by Munich residents who have access to whole shelves of knee-length and calf-warmer socks in every colour under the sun while we have to alternate between the same three ankle-lengthers in beige. This year, a whole range of Bavarian socks are now available for delivery outside of Germany for the first time. Allow us to run you through the main styles. Then all you need to do is forward this article to enquiring womenfolk in your family &amp;ndash; and remember to hang up your stocking.          
 &amp;nbsp; 
  Standard ankle and knee-length socks  are generally available in plain, natural wool colours. These work well with rustic Oktoberfest outfits such as lederhosen and checked shirt and some more modern combinations with denim shirts, t-shirts, and other tops. They can match either traditional  Haferlschuhe  in rough leather or newer Bavarian sneaker-style footwear.       
  Patterned knee-length socks  (left) tend to accompany traditional  Tracht  outfits; you&amp;rsquo;ll often see members of heritage associations in grey knee-socks sporting green rings or other details. Some even have the Bavarian rhomboid patterning (although these are neither for the faint-hearted nor the uninitiated&amp;hellip;)       
  Uni-coloured knee-length socks  (right) are an important part of the classic well-to-do Munich look. Tents like Sch&amp;uuml;tzenfestzelt are awash with blue, green, and red knee-lengthers worn either with short lederhosen, showing some leg, or as part of continuum running into knickerbockers. You&amp;rsquo;ll most often see them worn with smarter types of  Haferlschuh  in smooth, shiny black leather.&amp;nbsp;                &amp;nbsp; 
   Loferl    calf-warmer two-piece socks  represent the most Bavarian form of footwear design: split into a to-ankle in-shoe sock and a cable-knit calf-covering portion,   Loferl   are distinctive, traditional, and great fun to wear. Generally patterned, the most classic combinations are dark green and natural shades such as cream, beige, or dark grey. However, increasing numbers of colours are becoming available, so it&amp;rsquo;s entirely possible to colour coordinate with your shirt. 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2016-12-14T10:15:00+01:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Winter warmers that look sharp: Bavarian men’s jackets</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/trends/winter-warmers-that-look-sharp-bavarian-men-s-jackets</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/trends/winter-warmers-that-look-sharp-bavarian-men-s-jackets"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            We&#039;re seeing an explosion in the way the traditional Bavarian jacket is interpreted. Besides the classic loden models in grey or brown with their green piping and collars, there are now new ideas hitting the market almost weekly
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                 There are very few pieces of clothing that say “I’m from Munich” as clearly as a traditional jacket. If lederhosen are typical of Bavaria and checked shirts the uniform of its farmers, then the classic blazer-style jackets made of loden (pressed and rolled wool, or “broadcloth” as it was once called in English) are what makes the Munich man look the part. They’re at once down-to-earth and classy, both traditional and cosmopolitan. Ever since they become fashionable, these jackets have had a twin role: both to use natural materials to protect the wearer from the elements and yet, in so doing, make him look smart. 
   That’s why the  Janker , as German calls this form of Bavarian jacket, looks sharp: it was cut so that Bavarian men could look presentable in town and show their wealth in the countryside. These demands explain the blazer-style structured cut and the fact that well-off Munich residents will often trade in the buckhorn buttons for gold ones; it also explains why you’ll even see politicians and businessmen combining them with silk ties and tailored-made shirts. 
 It’s probably this role in bridging the gap between traditional Bavaria and the modern world that this form of jacket has grown even more in popularity in recent years. The current trend away from set  Tracht  outfits towards mixing and matching traditional pieces with other parts of the wardrobe has definitely played to the jackets’ strengths as acceptable counterparts to jeans, corduroys, and suit trousers, to tops, pullovers, and shirts. 
 That is most likely what is behind the explosion we’re now seeing in the way the  traditional Bavarian jacket  is interpreted. Besides the classic  loden  models in grey or brown with their green piping and collars, there are now new ideas hitting the market almost weekly. 
   There are the jackets which are almost overcoats: while the outline and cut are as usual (short at the hips, broad at the shoulder) the materials are new: genuine  leather  or even artificial  vintage-look leather  are helping the  Janker  to transition into everyday wear without cheapening it. Other models are combining loden and leather – and mixing in looks from recent fashion trends such as arms in different fabrics to the body and (which new-season bomber would be complete without them?) patches. 
   Others are sticking to  woollen fabrics , but rounding off the sharp edges and going for a loose structure and younger-looking style. Here, too, you’ll find patches as new colours make their way into traditional jackets, especially blue. The same is happening in this summer’s trend segment,  linen  jackets, which introduced grey and, above all, blue – along with a more informal, but nevertheless decidedly grown-up, look. 
   More formal jackets, too, are incorporating blues and other colours such as taupe or lighter browns. Yes: there are now Bavarian jackets which look even more formal than traditional  Janker , a feat achieved by brands such Orbis thanks to shimmering  velvet-look  polyester-polyamide-elasthene blends which make any and every jacket suitable for business and evening wear. 
 So the message this winter is a clear one: why go out and get another leather coat or a new bomber jacket when a smart Bavarian jacket is available in every segment? Not to mention the benefit of having something you can put on if the weather takes a turn for the worse at the next Oktoberfest… 
  &amp;nbsp; 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2016-11-30T10:15:00+01:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Winter warmers that look sharp: Bavarian ladies’ jackets</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/trends/winter-warmers-that-look-sharp-bavarian-ladies-jackets</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/trends/winter-warmers-that-look-sharp-bavarian-ladies-jackets"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            the best thing about women’s fashion is that girls are happier to experiment. Which is why we are absolutely delighted with the winter collections for 2016-17, showing as they do just how much more can be done with Bavarian jackets for women.
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                 If we’re talking about Bavarian women’s fashion for the winter, the first thing most of us are likely to think of are  woolly cardigans and sweaters . Not that there’s anything wrong with or about that: Bavarian knits keep you nice and warm and feel soft and cosy. Nifty little cardigans can complement a dirndl nicely, and recent years have seen a range of longer button-down cardigans inspired by men’s fashion to match women’s lederhosen. 
  Nevertheless, although they may have given us lederhosen and the right cardigans to go with them, the boys have been keeping something else rather more to themselves: loden jackets. They’re what Bavarian men wear when plain knitted wool just doesn’t cut it anymore – i.e. when it’s raining so hard or snowing so mushily that the garn will soak up water, or when it’s so windy that it whistles through the gaps in the mesh and chills you to the bone. Or, more simply, when it’s about making an impression at an evening do and a simple knit isn’t dressy enough – too soft, too flowing, not sharp enough. 
 A classic loden jacket is made of wool too, of course, but loden a very special type known traditionally in English as broadcloth. To the touch, it feels like velvet or felt – and certainly looks like felt, too – but it’s actually just wool compacted, milled, and treated until it becomes so thick that it is waterproof, retains heat, and keeps its shape. In fact, loden is stiff enough to carry lining and can be cut to give a suit-jacket-style silhouette. That’s why it’s so suitable for dressy occasions in the winter. 
 Now, these qualities have not gone undiscovered, meaning that Bavarian women have had their own loden pieces for several years already. Often, though, they looked like little more than afterthoughts, versions of the classic men’s jackets taken in a bit at the waist. The colours were charcoal grey and coffee brown, with the odd bit of forest green piping and gold buttons as the highpoints. But of course the best thing about women’s fashion is that girls are happier to experiment with different colours and have a great eye for fun details, right ladies? 
  Bavarian loden jackets made for women  
   That’s why we are absolutely delighted with the winter collections for 2016-17, showing as they do just how much more can be done with  Bavarian jackets for women . So finally, there are some real statement pieces out there, like the jackets by Spieth &amp;amp; Wensky, which are both as smart and sharp as their male counterparts, but filled with the kind of feminine detail missing from previous efforts. The colours, especially, are exciting, with red and green both as floral patterning or on the seams and, most strikingly, as the overall fabric colour. 
   Then there are Orbis’ new designs, revolutionary in other ways. While the colours remain reserved (although, of course, using blue – however dark – is in its own way a mini-rebellion…), the fabric is a real revolution: the polyester-polyamid-lycra blend ensures that these jackets are not only waterproof, warming, and shape-retaining, but also have a subtle-yet-striking sheen to them. Combined with rich detail such as decorative buttons and darting, these pieces are dressy enough for smart evening festivities. 
 Orbis has also gone for something completely new, founding a new genre in women’s Bavarian jackets: the frock coat. It’s a real treat for girls who like traditional shapes – and who know just how important a long overcoat can be when the temperatures really head south – but who like practical pieces that can be combined with jeans or a range of other outfits. This jacket really lifts whatever it is you’ve got on and makes a strong statement. So let wool be all cuddly and warm – it fits nicely under a coat… 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2016-11-16T11:15:00+01:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Oktoberfest Dirndl Shop at the Oktoberfest 2016</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/oktoberfest/oktoberfest-dirndl-shop-at-the-oktoberfest-2016</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/oktoberfest/oktoberfest-dirndl-shop-at-the-oktoberfest-2016"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Anyone who sells Bavarian clothing has to like wearing it - and there&#039;s no place we enjoy wearing our dirndls and lederhosen more than at the Munich Oktoberfest. Read about our 2016 trip!
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                <![CDATA[
                 18 wonderful days (one more than usual thanks to the Day of German Unity falling on a Monday...) and here we are: at the end of the 2016 Oktoberfest, the 183rd in the long history of this traditional festival. 
 Lots of people have remarked on how quiet things were this year - it is, apparently, the least busy Oktoberfest since 2001. Now, that is doubtless the case in statistical terms. For us, however, the  Wiesn  was the same as every year: jam-packed with fun, excitement, and chance encounters of the kind you only experience here. Besides all the beer and the singing and the dancing, the thing we love most about the Oktoberfest is the dress, of course. Since we sell many of the dirndls and lederhosen people wear, we get a heads-up on the major trends: this year, it was all about  hair accessories  and Bavarian  hi-top  sneakers for the girls, traditional  costume shirts  or  casual tops  for the boys. (We probably don&#039;t need to tell you that  dirndls  and lederhosen (his  and   hers ) were as popular and as varied as ever.) 
   Our Oktoberfest 2016   
 Our team made a valiant effort to wear as much of that as possible - and more. What you&#039;ll want to know, though, is what we got up to while we were doing it, right? Well, one of the first reservations we had was in the Armbrustsch&amp;uuml;tzenzelt: and thank - quite literally: - heavans we had one, because the skies were anything other than clear in those first few days. 
     
 Around the middle of the first week, however, the weather gods decided to look kindly on Munich and sent a textbook September summer our way. Fresh mornings, warm afternoons, and temperate evenings just right for sitting outside in the beer gardens. That&#039;s when we headed to Sch&amp;uuml;tzenfestzelt for a few days: a great place to soak up the sun and - what with the tents not closed due to overcrowding - a good place from which to view the crazy goings-on (Sch&amp;uuml;tzen has a gallery on three sides that offers expansive views). 
 If you&#039;re wondering what those little spots are in the middle picture, by the way, they&#039;re balloons released after the traditional Sunday morning brass band concert held round the corner at the feet of the Bavaria statue. 
     
 Now, as pleasant as the beer garden may be on days like that, the real life and soul of the Oktoberfest is, as we all know, in the tents. Hacker, especially, is known as the location of choice for Munich&#039;s young party crowd, and so we heeded its siren call. We were especially curious to see the new interior - the tent was refitted for this year to be airier, bigger, and more comfortable - and see if the atmosphere was still the same... 
     
 And do you know what? It was! But what is the atmosphere in Hacker like, then, we hear you ask? Well, it&#039;s hard to describe precisely, but let&#039;s just say that we were deeply surprised to find out that it was closing time... 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2016-10-03T16:15:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">The perfect Oktoberfest outfits 2016</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/news/the-perfect-oktoberfest-outfits-2016</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/news/the-perfect-oktoberfest-outfits-2016"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Thre is no more one perfect outfit than there is one type of person who enjoys wearing Bavarian clothing or one type of person who likes going to the Oktoberfest. There are, however, several good looks to orientate yourself towards.
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                <![CDATA[
                 How do you manage to turn heads at the Munich Oktoberfest – and turn them the right way? What is the secret to creating an outfit that manages to bring together tradition, trends, and your personality in just the right proportions? In other words: what does the perfect Oktoberfest outfit for 2016 look like? 
 Well, there is – of course – no more one perfect outfit than there is one type of person who enjoys wearing Bavarian clothing or one type of person who likes going to the Oktoberfest. There are, however, several good looks to orientate yourself towards – and we’ll show you the best versions of each for this year’s Fest. These outfits combine new-season trends such as retro patterns, robust fabrics, and Bavarian/everyday-wear crossovers so that you’ll look great in the tents and yet feel able to express your own personal style. Which type best suits you? 
     
  “Grandma wasn’t always wrong, you know…”  
 Are you the type of person who never used plastic bags even before the ban? Who sucks on a strepsil if they’ve got a cold rather than bothering the doctor? The kind of person who actually doesn’t mind – perhaps even quite likes – the scent of lavender? 
 If so, then you’ll love one of the key 2016 trends in women’s Oktoberfest fashion: retro floral patterns and demure shades of colour. Here, we’ve taken a  mid-length dirndl in ochre brown  with beautiful florals and combined it with brown velour pumps and an off-shoulder blouse. This outfit is smart, traditional, and very much of the moment – your grandma would be proud (even if she’d suggest that you cover up your knees and shoulders…)&amp;nbsp; 
   “As long as I don’t need to do my hair…”  
 Are you the organised type who is always sorting out the trips and holidays you and your girlfriends go on? The type that every group of friends needs because otherwise no-one would ever settle on anything? The type who is about to blow her cool if you hear just one more of your friends say “I don’t mind, you decide! But just make sure that…”? If so, then you’ll know that the important thing about the Oktoberfest is to get to the tents early so you get your pick of tables (and of lederhosen-clad hunks at them). 
 That’s why this comfortable, fashionable, and slightly racy pair of  denim lederhosen  is just right for you. Combined with a feminine but easy-care t-shirt in pink and a pair of Bavarian-style chucks with a floral pattern, all you need is  the  2016 trend item – floral headwear – and you’re ready to hit the tents at 9am. By midday, you’re dancing on the benches and can still make it to the club that night while the other girls are complaining about their heels. And you look fantastic the whole time.&amp;nbsp; 
   “I hate it when they change the cut on jeans…”  
 Of course, smartphones are useful tools, but isn’t it nice to put them away every now and then. And – between you and me – when did we start taking photos of food and posting them before we’d even spread out our napkins. What do you mean this restaurant doesn’t have napkins…? 
 You’re the type of guy who knows that men don’t have to be pretty: they have to be authentic. Couple of hairs on your back? No problem. If you wear a shirt with a collar, no-one will ever know. It’s already bad enough that normal 501 jeans look odd nowadays and that you had to buy skinnier ones a few years back. So you’ll love 2016 with its return to classic Bavarian looks: we’d suggest stocking up before the funny cuts and odd colours make a comeback. How about timeless  knee-length leather breeches  in brown and a plain white shirt? No need to re-invent the wheel.&amp;nbsp; 
   “You mean you don’t shave your chest hair? But everyone does…” &amp;nbsp; 
 You’re an early adopter: if they’d let you, you be a guinea pig for one of those smart chips that you can have implanted in your arm. When are they due to hit the stores again? 2025? Tradition is all well and good – you’re at the Oktoberfest after all, and it’s been going 200 years – but there’s no reason not to tweak and make improvements wherever you can. One improvement on recent decades is that you can now get away with wearing a t-shirt almost anywhere.. 
 On that matter, here’s a cool tee in stone-wash grey jersey; it’s comfy and yet is clearly about the Oktoberfest (deer horns!). And the  lederhosen  are fun: why did it take Bavarians so long to replace the standard decorative stitching with something more exciting (deer horns?) See: there’s no tradition that can’t be improved upon. 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2016-08-31T09:15:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Traditional Bavarian shirts: back to the future</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/traditional-bavarian-shirts-back-to-the-future</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/traditional-bavarian-shirts-back-to-the-future"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            After years of experiments, in 2016, it feels like we’re approaching peak tradition - so it makes sense that traditional Bavarian shirts are back. And they&#039;ve never looked better!
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            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                  “Sometimes, to take a few steps forward, you have to take a step back.” We’ve all heard that old chestnut a few times, but in men’s Oktoberfest fashion this year, it’s never been truer. If almost a decade’s worth of seasons featured bright colours, new-style fabrics, and unusual cuts, since about 2014, the pendulum has been busy swinging back the other way. Now, with silky dress gilets and linen waistcoats in beige and grey, with rustic jackets made of leather or even canvas, we’re approaching peak tradition: and so it makes sense that, this year,  traditional Bavarian shirts  are back. 
 Called  Trachtenpfoad  to distinguish them from the typical checked or white  Trachtenhemden  shirts that are the standard-issue variants we all know, these traditional Bavarian shirts look almost like museum pieces and would be quite at home on the set of  Poldark . While, typically, Oktoberfest shirts have simply used check pattern or buckhorn buttons to distinguish themselves from everyday tops, a  Pfoad  really is a quite different type of clothing. 
  Its most obvious olden-days throwback is its half-length button placket (known in English as “Henley” or, more commonly, “grandad” style), turning this shirt into a top – i.e. one than needs to be pulled over the head. After all, we’re talking about a traditional top for traditional guys who aren’t worried about their hair getting messed up a bit. Another archaic feature is the crew neck, meaning that this kind of shirt lacks a large collar; the fabrics, too, are linen or linen-cotton blends – no new-fangled stretches here! Small details such as horizontal finishes below the buttons and rounded hemlines mark out a  Pfoad  and remind us that this is a traditional piece of clothing once conceived for the country workers of Bavaria. 
  Then again, history never repeats itself entirely. While the blue-white striped, loose-fitting retro canvas models offered by OS-Trachten are the purest incarnation of this return to tradition, modern influences are making themselves felt, too. Spieth &amp;amp; Wensky is offering more tailored, formal versions, for example, avoiding easily-creased linen and offering fashion details such as decorative piping either side of the placket and thin coloured lines on the inside of the cuffs. 
 Whichever specific version, it’s important to remember that this kind of traditional Bavarian shirt works well with most lederhosen, but is that bit too rough-and-ready to combine well with smarter black shiny leather breeches: these need to be worn with a full shirt. On the other hand, these kind of looser-fitting grandad shirts do work well with jeans or other informal trousers, allowing wearers to create outfits that are okay both on and off the Wiesn. The best tops to wear over  Pfoad -style shirts are knitted waistcoats and cardigans (anything with a sheen will clash) as well as linen or leather jackets (avoid loden as this too is more formal). One last tip: the traditional look of this kind of shirt is an invitation to wear the straps which are usually provided with lederhosen, but frequently neglected! 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2016-08-17T10:15:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Oktoberfest hair accessories are all the rage</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/trends/oktoberfest-hair-accessories-are-all-the-rage</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/trends/oktoberfest-hair-accessories-are-all-the-rage"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            A key Bavarian fashion trend in 2016 comes in the form of hair accessories. At this year’s Oktoberfest, expect extras such as floral hairbands and hair clips to be just as noticeable as changes in dirndl and lederhosen fashions – if not more so.
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            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 A key Bavarian fashion trend in summer and autumn 2016 comes in the form of hair accessories. At this year’s Oktoberfest, expect the new prevalence of extras such as floral hairbands and hair clips to be just as noticeable as changes in dirndl and lederhosen fashions – if not more so, since, in comparison to the often quite slight movements in fabrics and colours, the sudden spread of floral hair accessories will make this year’s beer festivals look decidedly different from those in recent years. Sure, some of the girls have been weaving flowers into their locks for a couple of seasons now as the natural look makes a comeback, but this year, dirndl wearers without some form of floral hair decoration are likely to be in the minority at the Munich Oktoberfest. From then on in, the trend is mainstream. 
 As ever, we at the Oktoberfest Dirndl Shop are ahead of the curve: we’ve already got a broad range of floral   hair accessories   to complement ladies’ dirndl and lederhosen outfits: we stock hairbands, hair wreathes, and hairclips, as well as hat accessories and pins, too. 
  The easiest to wear and the most versatile of our various hair accessories the  floral hairband . Consisting of a metal frame covered in satin and decorated with artificial blossoms, our hairbands can be worn in front of pinned up hair and buns, simply put on at the last minute for that final touch. We also have several looser garlands based on bendable wire and ribbons which can be adapted to all sizes and made to finish off a hairstyle or liven up a hat. Whether loose or tight-fitting, all of our hairbands feature a charming mixture of flowers, blossom, and berries, giving them that fresh summer meadow look. 
  Slightly lighter and visually less prominent are our  wreath-style hairbands , which are based on thin metal rings and go full circle. Worn in more horizontal way and running closer to the forehead, these wreathes look beautiful when used to crown hair worn open. 
  Another easy accessory is a floral hairclip, which uses an elastic band covered in low-key coloured material to make sure that your floral decoration sits tight – and your hair-do stays put. Clips, too, with a single artificial flower and a decorative ribbon, are easy-to-use accessories which liven up not only a hairstyle, but a whole outfit in a matter of moments. 
 With all of this on offer, we girls are going to have quite a bit of difficulty deciding how to decorate our hair for this year’s Oktoberfest fun. Not quite as much difficulty as we would if we had to actually make our own floral hair wreathes, however... 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2016-08-03T11:15:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">How can you add Bavarian flair to your everyday wardrobe?</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/how-can-you-add-bavarian-flair-to-your-everyday-wardrobe</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/how-can-you-add-bavarian-flair-to-your-everyday-wardrobe"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Whether its jeans, shirts, or jackets, Bavarian styles have found their way into lots of everyday pieces in recent years, allowing you to create an everyday look with Oktoberfest details.
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            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 To earlier generations of Bavarians who wore lederhosen and dirndls because, well, that’s what you did, our title question would, of course, have seemed absurd.  Tracht , as the traditional costume in this part of Germany is called, was made for everyday farming work. Yet it hasn’t been that way for some time. Starting in the mid-1800s as people moved to the cities and into the factories, the agricultural work uniform of leather breeches and dirndl dress was replaced by overalls. Then, in the course of the twentieth century, lederhosen and dirndls became increasingly limited to ceremonial contexts: weddings, holidays, beer festivals. Even in the countryside, traditional Bavarian dress became less and less common as everyday wear. 
 Yet now, things are coming full circle. The new modern Bavarian fashion styles are inspired by, but not limited by, the old dress codes. Instead of simply sticking to full outfits composed of tightly prescribed elements, the development in recent years has been to take elements of Bavarian style and integrate them into more familiar pieces of clothing such as jeans, t-shirts, and even sneakers; this season, there are even Bavarian blazers! This approach is turning typical everyday items into expressions of tradition that can still be worn as part of normal rotation. 
 So if you fancy bringing some Alpine style into your wardrobe without going around in full-blown lederhosen or dirndl, here are some ideas for Bavarian outfits which are practical, comfortable, and fashionable. 
       Just chilling out     
 One of the classic motifs of everyday Bavarian clothing is wearing lederhosen with thick socks and a linen shirt, overlaid with a knitted body-warmer or jacket as required. This hard-wearing, low-cost combination was how farmers on the mountain pastures dressed for centuries, with dapper pieces you’ll see at the Oktoberfest like proper collared shirts and loden blazers being reserved for Sunday best. 
 And this uniform provides inspiration for day-to-day wear now – both for men and for women, but with a modern twist. There are shorts made of  denim  and other fabrics which are both lighter than leather and washable, but designed with typical  lederhosen  features. Combined with themed t-shirts, they look like a “normal” outfit at first – shorts plus short-sleeved top – but reveal, on closer inspection, a bit of Bavarian character. 
     Relaxed work-wear   
 In the old days, men would use a button-down shirt, a waistcoat, and a loden jacket to turn a pair of lederhosen into the basis for a formal outfit. Today too, high-quality Alpine coats and blazers can be used to express formality and, paired with jeans and a shirt, make a comfortable but acceptable office outfit. 
 The girls can pull of the truck with a  light loden jacket ; worn with pumps, this kind of tailored top piece makes for a smart, yet feminine outfit that is perfect for professional wear in work environments which offer some freedom in terms of the dress code, but nevertheless have certain standards. For men, this calls for dark, reserved jeans worn with a gingham check shirt and a  Bavarian jacket : available in traditional loden as well as  leather  and even linen, a well-cut blazer will get you noticed – in the good, career-boosting way, of course… 
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2016-07-20T10:15:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Bavarian uniform: dirndls and lederhosen for hospitality staff</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/news/bavarian-uniform-dirndls-and-lederhosen-for-hospitality-staff</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/news/bavarian-uniform-dirndls-and-lederhosen-for-hospitality-staff"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            For most, Bavarian clothing is something they associate with leisure time: but for some in the hospitality trade, dirndls and lederhosen are uniform - and need to be hard-wearing and good value.
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            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 For most people, Bavarian clothing is something they associate with leisure time: whether they’re taking a break to Munich for the Oktoberfest or heading to one of the many themed pubs and restaurants elsewhere for an evening, they’re generally dressed in lederhosen and dirndl when they’re off work. That’s not the case for the people serving them, however. Indeed, for waiters and waitresses serving customers in the thousands of traditional guesthouses and inns in Germany or working the beer tents in the summer, as well as many on duty for Oktoberfest tribute events abroad or at the increasingly popular Bavarian beerhouses opening up in cities worldwide, dirndls and lederhosen are, first and foremost, work uniform. Bavarian uniform. 
 That has advantages and disadvantages. The benefits? Traditional Bavarian garb is without doubt a cut above your average fast-food restaurant clothing, for example, and answers many of the awkward questions for waiters in middle-of-the-road hostelries about what constitutes appropriate work clothing. 
 The drawbacks, however, are clear: service positions are often physically demanding and many restaurants and tents heat up quickly. As such, Bavarian clothing for hospitality staff needs to be even more robust than it generally is and yet comfortable to wear. 
 That means checking to make sure that Bavarian uniform fulfils the following criteria: 
 
  Robustness  – As working clothes for peasants, lederhosen and dirndls can take a lot of punishment. Nevertheless, the best leather breeches and dresses for staffing are even more robust, with a minimum of details and add-ons which might get caught or show wear. What is more, they need to be easily washable. 
  Recognisability  – Waiters and waitresses need to be easily visually distinguishable from the customers around them. That means steering clear of trendy features and keeping colours low-key – often integrating corporate or team colours. 
  Günstig  – There’s no way round it: those using Bavarian clothing as a work uniform will run through their lederhosen and dirndls quicker and need more of them at once. As such, they need to be priced in such as way as not to be one-off pieces. 
 
 In view of these demands, we at Oktoberfest Dirndl Shop have long been stocking specially designed for professional waiters and waitresses working in traditional Bavarian locations and Bavarian-themed restaurants in the rest of Germany and abroad. 
   Sandy2 ( l )   Amber ( r ) 
 For  waitresses , we recommend the classic, ankle-length dirndls made by Stockerpoint. In these models, the body and skirt are in reserved yet smart, festive black jacquard, giving you the best compromise between robustness and elegance. What makes this range particularly suited to service wear is the wide selection of coloured aprons in simple, classic patterns, allowing staff to switch colours with those of their employer, for example. Our three recommendations are Zenta3, Amber, and Sandy2; the latter, with a slightly shorter skirt at 70cm rather than the usual 90cm, is particularly popular for summer festivals, helping to beat the heat with a professional touch.. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
   Rosso ( l ), Oliver ( r )   
 For the guys, Bavarian uniform is – as in all other areas – slightly less complicated. Lederhosen always have been made for hard work, so  waiters  can choose pretty much any pair they want and they’ll last a season. Then again, many tents and restaurants have their own dress code, stipulating short, knee-length, or full-length trousers, so you may find yourself having to buy more pairs even if your trusty work breeches are still in good shape. Look at  Oliver  in old brown for a classic pair of short lederhosen, or at  Rosso   in the same shade for knee-length breeches. At that price, they’ll earn their keep! 
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2016-07-06T10:15:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Bavarian style hits chucks and blazers</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/bavarian-style-hits-chucks-and-blazers</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/bavarian-style-hits-chucks-and-blazers"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Bavarian fashion has been adding Alpine details to everyday clothes for years. This season, it&#039;s the turn of blazers and hi-top chucks to get “the Bavarian treatment”! 
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            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 If you still need convincing that not just men, but women too, can look great in lederhosen and that not all dirndls make you look like something out of  The Sound of Music  (with added Victorian corset charm), then stop reading here: because this is taking traditional Bavarian clothing up a level and is something only for those who have a proven love for the basics. 
 The new range of fashion items we are about tp present are fun to wear and part of the Oktoberfest party experience, but can also be worn as part of normal outfits, too. For women who want special Oktoberfest wear they can also combine with standard clothing (a very trendy look in Munich right now), these developments in Bavarian fashion are exciting: blazers and hi-top chuck sneakers have now been given “the Bavarian treatment”, so get ready for items you can wear not just in the tents and not just in Munich, but on the way to and from the airport on either end. 
    Bavarian blazers    
 These  jackets  are made of fleece, combining comfort and warmth with a sleek fit and plenty of traditional details such as heart-shaped embroidery, gingam lining, and buckhorn buttons. With a smart pair of jeans and a white tee, for example, the Nicoletta light grey jacket is the ideal smart-casual look with just the right hint of Oktoberfest festivities. The dark-grey Adelheid model with contrasting borders and glittering sewn-on applications is that bit more rustic looking, but is still definitely suited as part of an everyday wear outfit. (Both of these are made by Marjo and available in our shop). 
    Bavarian chucks - Alpine sneakers    
 Worn with flat shoes or high heels, these blazers are almost casual Friday material (and many a Munich girl has this kind of mixed outfit on hand so that she can hit the tents straight after a day in the office!), but combined with  hi-top chucks , they make for a superbly easy-to-wear, stylish Wiesn look or just a day out and about while on holiday in and around Munich. Whether versions with folk elements such as check and satin lacing, or more fanciful feminine floral-pattern shoes - in brighter colours such as red and pink - these KrügerMadl hi-tops are the perfect mix of relaxed style and Bavarian tradition. 
  When you&#039;ve got this kind of all-purpose cross-over style, there’s nothing to stop you wearing something special for the Munich tents into work in, say, London on a Thursday morning and hitting the Oktoberfest - one after-work flight later - by nightfall. In fact, these items are so stylish in their own right that no-one would bat an eyelid if you wore them on a dress-down Friday at any time of year! And in terms of sheer comforot, you can&#039;t beat soft fleece and padded chucks, can you? 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2016-06-22T15:00:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Lederhosen and dirndls for children</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/news/lederhosen-and-dirndls-for-children</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/news/lederhosen-and-dirndls-for-children"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            “Kids in lederhosen and dirndls? What is this,” I hear you ask, “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang?” Well actually, kids love getting dressed up - and Bavarians are suckers for cutie-pie children. That&#039;s why we are now selling a collection of Bavarian children&#039;s outfits.
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            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                  “Kids in lederhosen and dirndls? What is this,” I hear you ask, “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang?” As a matter of fact, for centuries, children across the world wore the clothes of their parents – hard-wearing work clothes for everyday wear which could be adapted to fit changes in body shape. After all, poor Bavarian farmers couldn’t afford take their children to the tailor’s every year and their wives barely had time to keep up with all the taking up and in, all the sewing tears and the darning socks. Clothes for children had to be no-fuss and pragmatic. 
  So in the same way that young British or American boys were given shorts that could be let down as their legs got longer, Bavarian boys got lederhosen with the characteristic H-shaped buckled braces we know today: as the boys got taller, the straps could be lengthened. This – along with the buttons on the knee hem and the lacing at the back of the waist – may seem like quaint-but-authentic details today, but were once what made these pieces so long-lasting, allowing them to expand upwards and outwards with their wearers. The corset of a dirndl, too, could be tied wider and wider as girls got fuller and fuller. 
  Nowadays, you will see children wearing traditional Bavarian clothes, but for completely different reasons. Mainly, parents like to dress their kids up in Bavarian Trachten outfits for high and holy days, for weddings and christenings, and for outings to popular fairgrounds. The kids love it – they get to wear the same grown-up clothes as mum and dad – and the parents do too: after all, there’s nothing cuter than kids dressed up as mini-me-style adults, right? 
 That’s why we are now  stocking a full range  of children’s lederhosen, dirndls, and suitable accessories. For the little lads, we’ve got everything from real leather breeches and matching shirts through to pint-sized lederhosen shoes and even diminutive satin waistcoats.  We haven’t forgotten the little ladies, either, who can go for anything from exquisite floral pattern dirndls through to denim lederhosen-style shorts and t-shirts depending on their tastes! 
 So if you’re planning to take your kids to the Oktoberfest for a fun day out while you’re in Munich or you’ve been invited with your family to a genuine Bavarian celebration, make sure you take a look at our range of Bavarian outfits for children: there’ll be fun photos to share with all the family and, perhaps, a misty-eyed Bavarian looking on in delight. 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2016-05-25T11:15:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Cheap and cheerful? Be happier with a real pair of lederhosen!</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/cheap-and-cheerful-be-happier-with-a-real-pair-of-lederhosen</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/cheap-and-cheerful-be-happier-with-a-real-pair-of-lederhosen"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            It’s “Goodbye” to cheap and cheerful party pieces made of felt, paired with “Dave’s Stag-Do Munich 2006” t-shirts and “Hello” to real lederhosen and dirndls: and we are just the people to talk to about that...
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            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 We’ve spent years observing the developments in Bavarian clothing – after all, that’s pretty much job as purveyors of the finest Bavarian fashion and traditional Alpine looks. So we’re well placed to recognise changes in the market; not “trends, which are plentiful and often short-lived, but real change. 
 The big change we’ve seen over a period of, say, 10 years or so is that the bottom end of the market is slowly but surely withering away as the people who once bought all of the ghastly Bavarian costume pieces at the airport or train station on the way to the Oktoberfest are trading up to the genuine article. Then there are the stream of people actually moving to Munich – the city is booming and its labour market is one of Germany’s most international – and who have both the money and the motivation to look for the real deal. 
 So it’s “Goodbye” to cheap and cheerful party pieces made of felt, paired with “Dave’s Stag-Do Munich 2006” t-shirts and “Hello” to real leather; it’s “Auf Wiederhsehen” to shocking pink dirndls made of sweaty synthetics and “Guten Tag” to properly stitched, tastefully designed dresses in real country house style. 
   After all, if you’re headed to the Oktoberfest for the second, third, fourth time and are still enjoying it, you’ve suddenly got a reason to invest in something that is comfortable, looks good, and can be worn year after year. 
 Similarly, if you’re living in Munich, you’ll have realised that  Tracht  is not just a once-a-year thing. In fact, younger Bavarians especially are now wearing lederhosen and dirndl to all sorts of occasions: trips to beer gardens, watching Bayern München football matches, and the range of summer fairs and festivals in and around Munich. 
 And when you have real friends in Bavaria who invite you things like weddings and christenings, you’ll see that guests are now often asked to come in traditional clothing. This is new, too, and is a sign of a generation looking to reconnect with tradition: that doesn’t mean that you’re not allowed to get involved if you’re not from that part of the world – in fact, it should be understood as an opportunity, in donning traditional Bavarian garb, to make the tradition your own. What it does mean, though, is investing some time, thought, and – not least – money in looking the part. 
   With all of this in mind, we made the decision several years ago to really focus on quality first. Of course we haven’t taken the brakes off on prices – our customers want a good deal as much as they ever did – but we make sure that we don’t go below the minimum for genuine Bavarian quality. We were confident that our customers would be prepared to look beyond the first and cheapest offer they see and really look at what they’re getting for their money – and we’ve been proved right. We offer everything from a low-price “ first pair of lederhosen ” for someone looking to try the real thing through to premium pieces for convinced wearers of Bavarian clothing in the market for a  life-time pair of lederhosen . What both these lederhosen – and everything else on our spectrum – have in common is that they are guaranteed hard-wearing, comfortable, and authentic. Nothing more – but absolutely nothing less. 
 “Cheap and cheerful?” How about getting really happy with a real pair of lederhosen, with a genuine Bavarian dirndl. Together, we can put an end to the quick-and-dirty &quot;authentic costumes&quot; at Munich train station... 
   
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            </content>

                            <updated>2016-05-11T10:15:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">“Platzhirsch!” Oktoberfest t-shirts with attitude</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/platzhirsch-oktoberfest-t-shirts-with-attitude</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/platzhirsch-oktoberfest-t-shirts-with-attitude"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Lederhosen and t-shirts might seem like an odd combination, but Germans have been doing it for years. This year, though, the t-shirts are once again raising eyebrows - thanks to their exciting new designs and racy slogans...
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            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                    Lederhosen and t-shirts might seem like an odd combination, but Germans have been doing it for years. After all, especially during the summer beer festivals and inside the Oktoberfest tents, it can get pretty warm: not everyone wants to be sat in a shirt and collar. What is more, the Munich lads especially like to combine one key element of their identity – leather breeches – with another: Bayern Munich strips. 
 Then there’s the ladies. Traditionally, they were never supposed to wear lederhosen at all, so they’ve never had any qualms about combining them with lighter wear, especially the skimpier shorts, which would look odd with a full shirt or bodice. Last but not least, Bavaria is not immune from general fashion trends, and now the trash-look is hitting Alpine fashion somewhat delayed, but with all the more force: thin-weave fabric, often distressed or torn, is now being used for a lot of Oktoberfest t-shirts, as are other markers of designer t-shirts such as open, unsewn hems, deep V-necks, and pithy slogans. 
  In a way, its Berlin crossed with Munich, big city meets big mountains. Men’s Oktoberfest t-shirts above are now as comfortable as they are edgy, as fashionable as they are Bavarian. The cut, the fabric, and the styles look like they’re straight out of Berghain, while the slogans are most definitely Alpine: “ Da Berg ruft! ” (The mountain is calling!) reads a Stockerpoint tee, printed with down-at-the-heel climber’s boots; or there are stags with the rhomboids of the Bavarian flag and the self-explanatory “Alpenhero” print. Then there’s the t-shirt memorial to the German beer purity law: “ Hopfen und Malz, Gott erhalts ”, or “God save hops and malt!” 
   Speaking great German has never been this easy!   
  The girls, too, can take their pick of fun phrases. The MarJo brand is the one that will get you into the most conversations with Germans at the Oktoberfest, shocked and delighted as they will be by gems such as: “ Scheiß aufs Pferd, echte Prinzen kommen in Lederhosen! “ (“F**k horses! Real princes come in lederhosen!”). Krüger, meanwhile, is going for all out trash with a sequin heart flanked by deer antlers on grungy-looking, oil-washed fabric. Berghain meets Bavaria and then some. Oddly enough, this makes the Stockerpoint t-shirts – once the raciest out there – look almost tame; they’re certainly girlier, although equally as non-traditional. Everyone’s favourite of recent years, the dog t-shirt with the red-ribboned pit bull, is still in the running. 
 If all of this looks a bit too advanced for your tastes, then you’ve only really got two solutions: either retreat from Oktoberfest t-shirts and simply wear your own with your lederhosen (entirely in the original spirit of rebellion) or go all-out old-school and get a shirt and loden coat or a dirndl and blouse. Because with these t-shirts, you’ve got to be willing to be a “Platzhirsch” – the stag of the herd. 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2016-04-27T11:15:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Dirndl bodices are here to stay</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/dirndl-bodices-are-here-to-stay</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/dirndl-bodices-are-here-to-stay"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Früher waren sie das Kleidungsstück aus der Landhausmode für Frauen, die keine Girlies sein wollten. Heutzutage gibt es Trachtenmieder aber in allen Styles und Looks.
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                <![CDATA[
                 A few years ago, dirndl bodices &amp;ndash; i.e. the corsage part of the dirndl dress without the skirt &amp;ndash; were made for women who didn&amp;rsquo;t want to wear a full dirndl dress. That meant that they were often less feminine, sometimes to the point of being butch, and were designed to go with heavy country-style skirts or chunky jeans. For many, a dirndl bodice was a way of saying &amp;ldquo;I don&amp;rsquo;t do dirndls&amp;rdquo;. 
 That&amp;rsquo;s changed quite fundamentally, however, since ladies&amp;rsquo; lederhosen have become standard. Now dirndl bodices are a great way of complimenting the upper-thigh-length leather hotpants and very feminine leather shorts in pink or yellow with floral patterning. Now, dirndl bodices are being made for girls who would happily wear a dirndl, but have just chosen not to. That&amp;rsquo;s made the range of patterns and materials available far broader: denim, for example, found its way into corsages a few years back, often combined with red, blue, or pink checked cotton. Then there was the heart-shaped embroidery and lower-cut necklines&amp;hellip; 
 And now, Bavarian-style corsages are evolving even further. After the first generation of rock-chick chic and the second wave of girly fun, the third revolution is transforming dirndl bodices into genuine classics, inspired by traditional mainstays such as vintage patterns or men&amp;rsquo;s waistcoats. In 2016, women can wear a Bavarian bodice as part of almost any outfit, even as attractive evening wear for the most exclusive Oktoberfest tents. 
       Grandma look  
 Dirndl corsages are not the only area of Bavarian fashion to be going heavily vintage this season. Dirndls are sporting two or three floral patterns at once and being sold with multiple petticoats, just like back in grandma&amp;rsquo;s day. Dirndl bodices are picking up this trend with more natural colours and more patterned fabrics: rose prints, for example, are big, as are floral borders along hems and necklines. 
 In fact, some of these new-season bodices look almost like the top half of a traditional dirndl cut off from the skirt. That&amp;rsquo;s part of the principal, which is to combine a vintage look with decidedly modern cuts. After all, granny would have loved the flower prints, but wouldn&amp;rsquo;t have been so keen on showing off her shoulders &amp;ndash; or on wearing trousers! So while these bodices may look traditional, old-fashioned even at first sight, they are certainly revolutionary in their own way.  
       Boyfriend look  
 Another thing your grandma probably would never have thought of doing is cross-dressing: but that is precisely what a lot of Oktoberfest visitors will be doing in 2016. Yes, the second big innovation in Bavarian dirndl bodices has come from looking at traditional men&amp;rsquo;s waistcoats. 
 For centuries, waistcoats in velvet have been a customary accompaniment to Sunday best lederhosen are part of many traditional dress codes for men: now, the girls don&amp;rsquo;t want to miss out on the fun and have adapted these flattering, figure-hugging tops to their own needs, adding feminine details such as edelweiss floral embroidery and &amp;ndash; of course &amp;ndash; a sufficiently plunging neckline. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
       Hollywood look   
 There&amp;rsquo;s no better proof that dirndl bodices have become a fully-fledged element of Oktoberfest fashion than the fact that there is now a corsage for every occasion, from casual denim through to exclusive evening wear. 
 This season brings stylish corsages in rich, deep, shining black with designer elements such as velvet lacing, pearl beading, and rhinestone details: combined with a pair of ivory-coloured ladies&amp;rsquo; lederhosen or worn with a biker&amp;rsquo;s jacket for her, this kind of Bavarian bodice will be a real eye-catcher &amp;ndash; and one that doesn&amp;rsquo;t cut all ties with its rock-chick heritage... 
 &amp;nbsp; 
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2016-04-06T11:15:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">The best lederhosen of 2016</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/trends/the-best-lederhosen-of-2016</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/trends/the-best-lederhosen-of-2016"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            The new batch of classic, high quality lederhosen hitting the market means that we’re going to have make space for another pair: but which?
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                 Okay, let’s start by being honest here: we’ve all already got several pairs of lederhosen in our wardrobes at home. Then again, that – and the (admittedly very pertinent) argument that lederhosen are made to be kept and worn for a lifetime – has never stopped us from getting excited about the new season’s leather breeches. In that respect, 2016 is no exception, and the new batch of classic, high quality models hitting the market means that we’re going to have make space for another pair. But which? 
    If you’re looking to acquire a(nother) pair and need a recommendation, we’ve narrowed it down to three new lederhosen. In the lower price segment, you simply can’t beat Stockerpoint’s 1843 model,  short lederhosen , in a reserved, quiet shade of  old grey . The detail, too, is understated, as is the embroidery and the piping. Then again, these sturdy bottoms made of goat suede leather are not short on authentic details such as the knife-pocket on the right-hand leg. We’d call this a classic pair of lederhosen, perfect for long days at beer festivals and, with its easily combinable colouring, a great match for all of your existing shirts, socks, and other accessories. 
     
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Next up is an altogether pricier model: made of  deerskin , this is definitely a step up into the big leagues, but one which rewards with astonishing craftsmanship and unbeatable quality. The object of our affections is model 1880 in the almost-untranslatable colour shade of stoaoid  (“stone old” – somewhere between stonewashed and vintage). This is definitely a pair of lederhosen that will get people looking and talking: any Bavarian worth their salt will recognise the genuine deerskin material and marvel at the lovingly detailed embroidery... If you’re a Munich regular who likes to look his best for The Fest, this is quite simply the kind of lederhosen you’ve been dreaming about! Read up on deerskin here...    
 &amp;nbsp; 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 In fact, our Lederhosen of the Year is also made of this magic material. This pair of  knee-length leather breeches  is so traditional, so classic, and so well-made that it’s almost revolutionary: it doesn’t have a big name – it’s referred to simply as 1913 - but it does have a strong colour ( uroid , or “ancient”) and an unparalleled level of workmanship. Whether it’s the embroidery on the bib or the eye-catchingly broad stitched finish to the leg, this is a pair of lederhosen that just keeps on revealing well thought-out and expertly executed details. If we could only scrape together the funds for this King of All Lederhosen, we’d never need another one ever again. Ever. Well, until next season, that is... 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2016-03-23T12:15:00+01:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Deerskin leather is best for lederhosen</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/news/deerskin-leather-is-best-for-lederhosen</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/news/deerskin-leather-is-best-for-lederhosen"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            It shouldn’t be big news to anyone that leather and trousers do not a lederhosen make. But just how exacting the standards for authentic lederhosen are, might surprise you.
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                 It shouldn’t be big news to anyone that leather and trousers do not a lederhosen make. After all, there are plenty of two-legged items of clothing made of leather do not look a bit like Bavarian lederhosen – and aren’t intended to, either. Just look at bikers’ leathers, for example, made of smooth black hide and covering the whole leg: they are designed for the practicalities of riding motorbikes, and – for some reason we’ve never understood – don’t have any floral stitching like traditional Bavarian leather breeches… 
 Then there are some leather trousers which are supposed to look like German lederhosen, but don’t really tick all the boxes for traditional Bavarian design. Some of the worst offenders are sold in the weeks before the Oktoberfest as “Bavarian lederhosen”, but are made of material that Bavarians wouldn’t even carpet their outhouses with: imitation leather, poorly-treated cowhide (not even nappa leather!) or low-grade goatskin of a quality that traditional manufacturers would turn down at the workshop door. It’s simple: the journey to genuine Bavarian lederhosen always starts with the choicest, professionally prepared goatskin or deerskin leather. Nothing else will do. 
    Due to its excellent value for money, goatskin is the classic material for “first-timer” lederhosen. Both visually authentic and robust, a pair of goatskin leather breeches can be worn for decades. Nevertheless, it is always second to deerskin leather, gained from the hides of red deer Soft and yet hard-wearing, as comfortable as it is strong, and featuring an exceptionally attractive natural graining, the “lederhosen for life” is almost always a deerskin pair. 
 We make a point of offering our customers both good-value goatskink- and some of the best, priciest  deerskin lederhosen  out there. That allows us to be the shop that people use both to buy their first ever pair of authentic Bavarian lederhosen – a “trial version” that really looks, feels, and plays the part – at an attractive price and to acquire exquisite lifetime lederhosen that will still be being worn to the Oktoberfest in 50 years. 
  Customers looking to buy genuine deerskin lederhosen will, quite rightly, be interested in the detail of how our leather is processed. One of the brands we stock, Stockerpoint, is one of the very few manufacturers of traditional Bavarian Tracht to stick to the age-old buffing and tanning methods as they are applied in Austria; this fully natural approach is all but forgotten outside of the traditional clothing industry, and as such, customers who purchase lederhosen from Stockerpoint are making a decision to support what would otherwise be a dying art. Similarly, our suppliers Krüger Buam have the most exacting standards on the leather they use. Besides the cultural importance of the techniques, buying this kind of leather is a decision for sustainability, both due to the strong laws on hunting and species protection for deer in Austria and due to one simple fact: this kind of lederhosen is one you only ever need to buy once. 
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2016-01-13T10:30:00+01:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Winter warmers: Bavarian knitwear, his &amp; hers</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/winter-warmers-bavarian-knitwear-his-hers</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/winter-warmers-bavarian-knitwear-his-hers"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Die Tracht muss den Träger vor der Kälte des bayerischen Winters schützen. Und da spielt – neben Leder – Strick eben eine entscheidende Rolle
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                <![CDATA[
                 Even the most casual observer of Bavaria must by now have realised that traditional Bavarian dress is more than just a costume for the summer and autumn beer festivals, but a real part of the culture of this area of Germany. That’s why you’ll also see lederhosen and dirndl being worn outside of the Oktoberfest weeks in Munich, or to events of personal importance such as weddings. In fact, some people have taken to wearing traditional Bavarian clothing in everyday life: one member of the national parliament from Bavaria even regularly turns up to debates in a dirndl! 
 This development means that dirndls and lederhosen are fast returning to what they always were: not just party-wear for warm beer-garden days, but versatile day-to-day workhorses. Which in turn means that, in winter, Bavarian fashion goes back to the roots to redevelop the pieces that kept today’s wearers’ grandparents warm. After all, with its Alpine regions, southern Germany is a part of the world that is used to dealing with harsh winter conditions, and they’ve developed the kind of comfortable and robust clothing that is just the ticket when the cold days come and the long nights draw in. Today, we’re looking at a classic of the genre, Bavarian knitwear, because not only is it perfect for rainy, wet, cold weather everywhere, but – in contrast to a pair of lederhosen or a dirndl – a good Bavarian knitted cardigan or body-warmer won’t look out of place as part of a standard winter outfit in London or New York. 
   What is &quot;Bavarian&quot; about Bavarian knitwear?   What sets Bavarian knitted pieces apart from your average sweater or jumper is its combination of chunky purled knitting patterns with quiet, reserved, but noticeable elements from the repertoire of  Tracht  – the typical Bavarian costume. So you’ll find plenty of hunting motifs stitched into the work, as well as buttons made of buckhorn. This kind of flourish doesn’t jump out, but marks out what you are wearing as more than just an average cardigan.&amp;nbsp;What is more, Bavarian knitwear – especially for men – is often heavier and more structured than standard knits, with clearer lines at the shoulders and about the midriff. Combined with the stylish details, this turns the pieces from simple cardigans into dressy top layers that you can be proud to show off. 
 In women’s knits, there is an ever-increasing range of  Trachten cardigans , offering everything from simple purls in unassuming everyday colours such as beige and grey through to more conspicuous pieces with volant hems and bright tones such as red and pink. For the winter 2015/16 season, there are even Bavarian-look knitted hoodies with zip-up fronts, offering the missing link between Bavarian and street styles. 
 This means that the girls have now finally overtaken the boys. Overtaken? Yes, because until recently, men had far more choice in Bavarian knitwear (and, as an aside, how many other areas of fashion have ever offered men a larger range than women?)! 
   The boys are losing the race &amp;nbsp;  There have always been chunky,  sleeveless  bodywarmers for men, for example, with a range of attractive patterns as well as simpler cardigans with sleeves: women have, until recently, had more or less one cut to choose from. Where the men are falling behind, however, is in terms of colour: natural wool-tone, brown, or dark grey are about the only shades available, and now that women have surged ahead with creative new designs, men’s knitwear looks less diverse than it used to. 
 We wonder if the gents will make an attempt to regain the initiative in knitwear: knitting is, after all, despite what many might think, a very masculine activity. North Sea fisherman have long knitted their own jumpers, while in Bavaria, farmers used to make their own socks and bodywarmers. The men will have to start experimenting with colours if they want to match the girls: and perhaps they might… We’re excited about what will happen in Bavarian knitwear in the coming seasons.&amp;nbsp; 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2015-11-11T12:00:00+01:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">The perfect Bavarian outfit for the Oktoberfest</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/news/the-perfect-bavarian-outfit-for-the-oktoberfest</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/news/the-perfect-bavarian-outfit-for-the-oktoberfest"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            While there is no more one single perfect outfit than there is one type of person attracted to traditional Bavarian clothing, there are perfect combinations for the Oktoberfest.
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                 If you’re a regular reader, you’ll know that we often write about all the different kinds of Bavarian styles there are: ladies in lederhosen, for example, or casual wear for the gents. We also follow trends and novelties very closely, looking at various developments away from the strongly traditional Bavarian Tracht dress codes. Very rarely, however, do we give any hard-and-fast recommendations for “the perfect Bavarian outfit” like so many other manufacturers or fashion pages. Why? Because, as everyone knows, there is no more one single perfect outfit than there is one type of person attracted to traditional Bavarian clothing. 
 There are, however, perfect outfits for particular occasions – like the Oktoberfest! We recommend particular clothing for the Oktoberfest not simply because it is a celebration of Bavarian style, but also because it is a uniquely tough environment in which to stay stylish: you’ve got to get to the Wiesn, be prepared for sudden changes in the autumnal weather, and be ready to sweat it out in the tents…  If you’re wondering how to dress practically but stylishly for these conditions, take a look out our recommendations for outfits and our explanations of just why they’re right for the approaching Oktoberfest 2015. 
  Practical Princess: mid-length dirndl, knitted cardigan   The 60cm Rosali dirndl is a real trending item for 2015 thanks to its fashionable nougat shade – a colour which also happens to be remarkably practical in the Oktoberfest tents, where there is many a slip betwixt cup and lip and the chances of getting beer on your dress at some point quite high. The same can be said of the toffee-coloured pumps, at once classically attractive and as robust as they are water-resistant. At the same time, the pink thread uniting the apron and the lace-up bodice of the dirndl gives the outfit a fun, girly party touch. Just in case festivities are drowned in downpours, however, or it’s cold on the way home, the plain knitted  cardigan  with the pretty little heart patch on the left-hand pock et will keep you warm. Practicality for girls who are, at heart, still princesses! 
  Hot tomboy: leather shorts with checked shirt  Combined with a black-white check sleeveless shirt, these daringly  short dark pink leather shorts  with their sooty shading are just the thing for repairing motorbikes – and for keeping cool in the Oktoberfest tents while the temperature goes up for the poor lads around you, especially when you combine them with these nappa leather heeled shoes. As well as warming you if the weather turns unexpectedly cold, the delicate knitwear should be enough to remind the boys that – even if you look better at DIY than all of them – you still know how to be feminine. So all in all, this is the perfect Oktoberfest look for ladies who want to turn heads without sticking&amp;nbsp;to stereotypes.  
  T  imeless classic fit for 2015: lederhosen and linen   For the boys, the Oktoberfest is an occasion when it’s best to stick with tried-and-tested styles. In fact, your leather breeches gain in kudos for every year you’ve been wearing them, so by all means, stick with last year’s pair. In fact, it would be a real shame to risk getting a new pair soaked in a beer-related accident – and uncomfortable to sweat in them before they’ve loosened up sufficiently. Speaking of loosening: the same goes for the haferlschuhe boots. If you’ve worn a pair in past blistering point, stick with them! If you’re looking to make a fashion statement, do it with your tops. In this outfit, we’ve gone for a trendy shirt with sporting cuffs in very of-the-moment smoke tones and then paired that up with a brick-red linen  waistcoat  to make the ensemble more eye-catching – and provide late-night warmth. At the same time, linen won’t overheat in the sweaty tents and so will help you get the most out of this year’s Oktoberfest. Prost! 
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2015-09-03T14:00:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">How Ladies wear Lederhosen</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/how-ladies-wear-lederhosen</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/how-ladies-wear-lederhosen"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            So when it comes to lederhosen, the ladies are far more adventurous than the boys - and that&#039;s a good thing. It does make putting together an outfit more complicated, however. Here&#039;s our guiide to the various looks with ladies&#039; lederhosen.
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                <![CDATA[
                   The idea of a girl in lederhosen used to sound quite tomboyish, but for a few years now, Oktoberfest ladies have been proving that lederhosen can look great on women too – and that they don’t need to borrow their boyfriends’, either. In fact, because women have more adventurous fashion tastes than men, their leather breeches are more colourful, more inventive, and more exciting than the traditional pairs. 
 Some women’s lederhosen are made of deerskin or goatskin, just like the traditional versions for men, but others are made of denim in faux-lederhosen look, for example. And while some feature traditional braces that can be worn attached or discarded like their male counterparts, other ladies lederhosen are of a different design altogether and are cut more like jeans shorts or hotpants… 
  The possibilities are endless, because us girls are happy to chop and change, while the boys stick to their “pair for life” in an almost touchingly clingy way. But of course, this means that we often have to ask ourselves how to actually wear our new pair. If you’re wondering how to make a style statement with ladies’ lederhosen, here are our Oktoberfest looks. 
   Classic   The first lederhosen onto the market for women were more of less copies of men’s breeches with a slightly more shapely cut. Certainly, in terms of colour, they stuck to the camel, turf, and mahogany shades and were traditionally knee-length. This type has remained popular with many lady lederhosen fans, and looks best with a classic Oktoberfest checked shirt or – for a slightly more feminine touch – a corset-style top with a lace-up front. Wear a Bavarian cardigan over it to keep warm, but try opting for a thicker, chunkier knit that you would if you were picking on to go with a dirndl. In terms of footwear, you’ve got to make like a boy and go for rustic boots (the traditional Haferlschuhe brogues are even available in women’s sizes now). 
   G  irly   While some girls are happy fighting the men on home turf, others find the traditional leather shades somewhat unappealing – “who wants to be reminded of a horsehair barstool”, they say! For the girlier girls out there, a flood of more colourful lederhosen has hit the shops, coming in everything from baby blue to bright pink and often featuring floral embroidery. If you’re planning to go with this innocent, fun-loving look, then you’ll need something fresher and altogether more feminine. We recommend t-shirts and tops rather than check, perhaps off the shoulder or with fun prints, and would wear ballerinas rather than boots to complete the look. 
  Hot   Hotpants-style lederhosen are a big deal this summer. If you’re wanting to rock the look, that’s fine, but beware: there’s a lot of skin on show and anyone wearing them will need to go with it 100%. That means pumps to really show off your legs and a tight, short check shirt worn with a few buttons open to make sure that the cleavage is doing its work too… 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2015-08-19T10:30:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">A shoo in: Oktoberfest outfits shipped worldwide</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/bestseller/a-shoo-in-oktoberfest-outfits-shipped-worldwide</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/bestseller/a-shoo-in-oktoberfest-outfits-shipped-worldwide"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            A lot of the “German lederhosen” or “Bavarian dirndls” sold outside of Germany are not authentic. But we guarantee genuine Oktoberfest wear and ship our products worldwide. So why not buy online before you get to Munich?
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                 If you&amp;rsquo;re not one of the lucky 1.3 million or so residents of Munich, or not among the blessed 10 million who call Bavaria their home, then it&amp;rsquo;s not always easy to get your hands on genuine Oktoberfest outfits. A lot of the &amp;ldquo;German lederhosen&amp;rdquo; or &amp;ldquo;Bavarian dirndls&amp;rdquo; sold outside of Germany &amp;ndash; outside of the State of Bavaria even &amp;ndash; don&amp;rsquo;t really have much in common with traditional designs and can often look cheap and embarrassing next to the real thing.    And since you&amp;rsquo;ll be wanting to wear your lederhosen outfit or dirndl dress next to thousands of others in Munich dressed in genuine Bavarian costumes, that&amp;rsquo;s a big drawback! But rather than waiting until you get to Germany to buy your clothes (both a high-risk and an expensive strategy), why not get authentic Bavarian outfits shipped to you a few weeks or months before you travel? That way, you&amp;rsquo;ll even have time to try them on and send them back if they don&amp;rsquo;t fit &amp;ndash; or if you decide they&amp;rsquo;re just not for you   Think that&amp;rsquo;s impossible? Well, it isn&amp;rsquo;t! We ship a full range of guaranteed authentic German Oktoberfest wear throughout Europe and to a variety of worldwide destinations. If we were in your shoes, we&amp;rsquo;d be buying here and now &amp;ndash; and here&amp;rsquo;s why! 
      International dispatch   
 We ship to the whole of Europe and most worldwide destinations using UPS, a premium packet carrier who provides a tracking service so that you always know where your order is. Due to the differences in weight between, say, a light dirndl dress and a pair of full-length lederhosen with shoes, we calculate delivery costs based on the contents of your basked and show you the exact postage costs for where you are.       Express delivery  
 If you&amp;rsquo;re worried that you&amp;rsquo;ve left it too late to order, think again: UPS offers worldwide urgent express shipping, meaning that we can deliver to European countries within a maximum of two working days and worldwide in up to five working days. That means that an authentic pair of Bavarian lederhosen can be with you in Sydney or in San Francisco in a working week! Obviously, that kind of service doesn&amp;rsquo;t come cheap, but if you want that special item fast and are prepared to pay to get it, we&amp;rsquo;ll get it to you!       100 days right of return  
 But what happens if your new dirndl or lederhosen doesn&amp;rsquo;t fit? Or if you ordered the wrong item? Or what if you just don&amp;rsquo;t like it when you see it in front of you? Well, you&amp;rsquo;ve got 100 days &amp;ndash; that&amp;rsquo;s over three calendar months &amp;ndash; to send it back to us unworn and get a full refund. No questions asked: if the item wasn&amp;rsquo;t right for whatever reason, send it back to us in its original state and we&amp;rsquo;ll give you your money back. If you&amp;rsquo;re ordering for the Oktoberfest, you&amp;rsquo;ll have until mid-December to return unwanted articles: no stress, no hurry.  
 With this kind of service, you&amp;rsquo;ll see why ordering your Bavarian fashion straight from Germany is a shoo in! 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2015-07-08T14:30:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Denim dirndls: the trend that just keeps on going</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/trends/denim-dirndls-the-trend-that-just-keeps-on-going</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/trends/denim-dirndls-the-trend-that-just-keeps-on-going"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            If summer 2015 has shown one thing, it&#039;s that denim dirndls are here to stay, both in short and medium-length dresses - and in other areas of Bavarian fashion too.
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                 As anyone who&amp;rsquo;s in the fashion business will tell you, trends tend to be either flashes in the pan or forest fires: while some flicker up for a moment, bright and sizzling, but are gone after a season, others just keep on eating their way through collection after collection &amp;ndash; sometimes as flames, sometimes as smouldering embers. And during this hot summer 2015, it&amp;rsquo;s been proven beyond a doubt that denim as an element of Bavarian costume and Oktoberfest fashion is a forest fire. When the first &amp;ldquo;jeans dirndl&amp;rdquo; pieces like Ricky (short) or Jolina (midi length) came out last year, they were one-offs, flanked by the occasional denim bodice or jeans with lederhosen-style stitching. 
 
 
 
    Marina: denim bodice, red apron 
    Ricky: the original, with denim apron and red-white check. 
    Marine: Jeans apron and blue-white check 
 
 
 
 Now, summer 2015 has shown that denim dirndls are here to stay. In the short-length dresses, for example, Ricky has spliced into two other models: the original had a denim apron and a red-and-white check dress, and has now spawned two versions, each picking out a different detail. While one now has a red apron with a blue-and-white chequered dress, the other has kept the blue denim with the new blue-and-white pattern. The midi &amp;ndash; knee-length &amp;ndash; models have changed too: the original Country &amp;amp; Western style of Jolina has been modified, with Joana taking denim into an otherwise highly traditional design, combining it with a decorative fronticepiece and a classic patterned apron; Paloma, meanwhile, has taken an entirely different path, going shoulderless and taking on the simple, modern forms of the 1950s. 
 
 
 
    Paloma with a retro-look and a 1950s cut 
    Joana brings denim into a classic Bavarian dirndl 
    The front of the Joana model is traditionally embroidered and modern - thanks to its denim. 
 
 
 
 &amp;nbsp;  What this ever broader range of denim dirndls tells us is that what was once a trend is now a feature that will become more and more standard as the seasons go by. And as with all trends which make the leap into as-standard features, this isn&amp;rsquo;t just a question of the look: denim is attractive because it&amp;rsquo;s hard-wearing, breathable, and familiar. That means it&amp;rsquo;s actually by no means a surprise that &amp;ldquo;jeans dirndls&amp;rdquo;, as German calls them, have established themselves as standard elements of Bavarian fashion so quickly. In fact, the real oddity is that it took so long to take this classic piece of American heavy-duty work clothing and apply it to traditional Bavarian costume &amp;ndash; which was, of course, originally also meant to be worn for demanding manual tasks &amp;hellip; 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2015-06-24T13:00:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">So you think you’d look stupid wearing lederhosen?</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/videos/so-you-think-you-d-look-stupid-wearing-lederhosen</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/videos/so-you-think-you-d-look-stupid-wearing-lederhosen"/>
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                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Is it okay to hijack other people’s traditional dress and will you look silly wearing it? Our guide to why you should take the plunge and go authentic at the Oktoberfest
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                 Since we sell Bavarian fashion for a living, we sometimes get too deep into the details and forget that, for a lot of people outside of Germany’s sunshine state, the very idea of wearing things like lederhosen and dirndls is outlandish, scary even. The two main issues people from outside of Bavaria have are, firstly, whether it’s okay to hijack other people’s traditional dress and, secondly, whether they’ll look silly wearing it or not 
 Now, in our experience, these two questions are related. How so? Well, put simply, Bavarians have very little against anyone – regardless of where they come from – sporting their traditional costume. For many Bavarians, there’s nothing nicer than meeting people from Manchester to Mexico City wearing their traditional dress out of love for the world-famous Munich Oktoberfest and Bavarian beer. If anything, they see it as an honour more than as an insult – but with the one major reservation: that tourists  wear  national costume, not  compromise  it. 
          Go real or go home   Viewed from the other end, the issue is the same: if you think you’ll look stupid wearing Bavarian lederhosen or a dirndl, you won’t – but you will look stupid wearing cheap imitation “leather” shorts or embarrassingly low-cut party dress. So really, it’s a win-win if you invest in some genuine Bavarian lederhosen or an authentic dirndl: not only will you look great, but you’ll also delight your hosts. 
 Sometimes, a few pictures say a thousand words, and rather than describe all of the horrific slutty dirndls and icky plastic lederhosen we see every year at the Oktoberfest, we thought we’d embed this video we made a few years back documenting the very worst and explaining how we can help. Because if you think you’ll look stupid wearing our clothes, you’ll look a hell of a site worse in this… 
    
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            </content>

                            <updated>2015-06-10T12:00:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Oktoberfest outfits with a difference</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/oktoberfest-outfits-with-a-difference</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/oktoberfest-outfits-with-a-difference"/>
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                                            For all of us guys who aren’t blessed with considerable good fortune of Bavarian birth, buying our first pair of lederhosen can be a bit of an ordeal. The main thing for all non-Bavarians is too look suitable for the Munich Oktoberfest without spending more on your traditional...
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                 For all of us guys who aren’t blessed with considerable good fortune of Bavarian birth, buying our first pair of lederhosen can be a bit of an ordeal: essentially, you’re buying something you’ve very little knowledge of – and that you would look silly in at home – for the precise purpose of not looking silly at the Oktoberfest. And how could it be any different? Even other Germans aren’t all that sure about what constitutes a good pair of leather breeches or what the correct accessories are with them. 
 The main thing for all non-Bavarians is too look suitable for the Munich Oktoberfest without spending more on your traditional garb than you would on a designer suit! This is all the more the case because, even if you make it to a Bavarian-themed beer-hall at home every now and then, you won’t really be wearing your lederhosen very often. You need Bavarian costume that is authentic, comfortable, and hard-wearing, but it doesn’t need to be composed of the very latest trend pieces or the very finest leather ever. 
   Which is why for several years now, we’ve been offering our traditional sets with all five items you need for the Oktoberfest: knee-length leather breeches, checked shirt, woolly socks, brogues, and a neck-tie. The deal is simple: you pay under €200 and get everything you need in one. It’s a trouble-free, sure-fire way to kit yourself out for the Wiesn with no mistakes or forgotten elements, and we’re proud to have sent many thousands of men off to Munich safe in the knowledge that they’re dressed appropriately. What we’ve seen, however, is that many first-time buyers become long-term lovers of Munich’s famous festival – and of Bavaria generally – who visit at least once a year and often have their trusty pair of lederhosen with them. Many of them start to ask how they can vary their outfit without getting into the territory of €500-lederhosen. We also know that some men don’t like the idea of buying sets: they like to show their own style, even if they’re looking to dress up for the Oktoberfest. 
        This is the kind of guy who might be asking what there is in between standard packages and expensive fashion. The answer to that question is simple enough: there’s lots in our shop! How about a pair of  jeans in “Trachten” look , for example? If you just can’t see yourself in a pair of leather breeches – or simply fancy trying something different to the Wiesn – this style could be just right for you. Take Cash, which feature the traditional flap over the flies but has a classic jeans-look on the rear? The stone-washed vintage colour and distressed details make this not just a trendy piece, but are inspired by the idea of traditional Bavarian costume as working attire. What’s more, you can combine this pair of shorts with literally anything: with a suitable shirt and woolly socks, you’re ready for the beer gardens, but with trainers and a t-shirt, you could even wear them to the airport on your way to Munich and no-one would bat an eyelid! 
       Another step towards casual wear are  Bavarian shorts  like Nash, made of the same fabric as your average jogging bottoms. With all the lederhosen details in terms of stitching, cut, and form, this is essentially a pair of tracksuit shorts in Bavarian style. Sound strange? It is. But it works on so many levels – as a bold fashion statement, a comfortable, light garment for warm days, and, most practically, as washable wear if you accidentally spill some beer… 
     For those looking to make a more grown-up impression on Munich society, a convincing way to do it is to combine traditional upper-body wear with a nice pair of jeans. It’s what the style-conscious Munich men have been doing for a while now, allowing them to duck out of the battle for the most beautiful lederhosen – and to sit comfortably in their office chairs before heading to the beer tents after the working day is done. Look for smart checked shirts, traditional waistcoats, or – if you really want to push the boat out – &amp;lt;ahref=&quot; https://www.oktoberfest-dirndl-shop.co.uk/men/trachten-jackets/5243/german-leather-jacket-sigal-nut?c=1285&quot;&amp;gt; traditional German leather jackets. Yet another way to look great at the Oktoberfest and yet survive the journey home without looking out of place in, say, London or Manchester… 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2015-05-27T15:00:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">“Evolushoes” – How Bavarian shoes just keep reinventing themselves</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/evolushoes-how-bavarian-shoes-just-keep-reinventing-themselves</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/evolushoes-how-bavarian-shoes-just-keep-reinventing-themselves"/>
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                                            Everyone knows that you can’t just wear any old shoe with a pair of premium lederhosen. Trainers are a no-no. The only really sure-fire footwear to accompany your leather breeches is the Haferlschuh, a traditional Bavarian workman’s shoe.
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                 Everyone knows that you can&amp;rsquo;t just wear any old shoe with a pair of premium lederhosen. Trainers are a no-no, and even a sturdy pair of leather boots can look odd if the style doesn&amp;rsquo;t match. The only really sure-fire footwear to accompany your leather breeches is the Haferlschuh, a traditional Bavarian workman&amp;rsquo;s shoe made of hard-wearing rough leather and with a robust nailed sole.   These hardy, heavy shoes are the basis for today&amp;rsquo;s Oktoberfest brogues, available either in suede leather in a range of brown tones to match various leather shades, or as polished nappa leather to accompany the traditionally upmarket black leather breeches. Regardless of material, the form is always the same: the short lace-up opening is on the side, the front is rounded, and the sole is thick.   Yet in recent years, this timeless classic has gone through several stages of evolution, turning from a fixed footwear item into a field for fashion experimentation &amp;ndash; reflecting the innovations in Bavarian costume. Today, there&amp;rsquo;s more choice than ever about precisely which kind of traditional Bavarian shoes to wear.   
      First step: colour  The first stage of evolution was simple but revolutionary: colour. Suddenly, traditional Haferschuhe were appearing in shining blue leather with bright white soles, or in combinations like green and red. The outline and structure were utterly standard, but the colours so strong that traditionalists were running for the hills. You&amp;rsquo;ll still find these models around, and those who went with the colourful lederhosen trend of the mid-2000s are pretty happy about the continuing stream of replacements.       Second step: form  This simple but outrageous trick opened the floodgates to new ideas for the Haferlschuh. The next step was to add decoration like embroidery and lighter suedes to match the next big thing in the late 2000s, the worn, distressed look. The substance of the shoe was adapted, too, with soft padding and broader Velcro-clasps introduced for added comfort (and to sighs of relief from guys with thin ankles).       Third stage: comfort In fact, the third stage was about comfort: while the look and fit of the shoe were left more less unchanged, the thick, inflexible sole of traditional models was swapped out for sportier, trainer-style rubber soles. This innovative brand of shoe has proven ideal for people who have a long walk to the Oktoberfest, or for Bavarians who want to wear their regional costume more often but need it to be more suited to hectic everyday life than slightly clumpy, stiff traditional footwear.       The next stage  These innovations have now combined to produce a whole new breed of Oktoberfest shoes for fans of traditional costume who are looking to branch out into new trends. There are leather shoes that pick up classic details like side-lacing or strong stitching, but combine them with modern features such as large, colourful laces in an intriguing way. The form, however, is still formal, still strong, and still Oktoberfest-ready, even if this form of modern brogue suits a pair of jeans as much as it does a pair of lederhosen.  So really, there has never been a better time to be investing in Bavarian footwear than now, whether it&amp;rsquo;s a standard traditional Haferlschuh or a new hybrid: if the shoe fits&amp;hellip; 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2015-04-13T15:00:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">What is a “Loden jacket” and why is it great?</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/what-is-a-loden-jacket-and-why-is-it-great</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/style-guide/what-is-a-loden-jacket-and-why-is-it-great"/>
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                                            The two defining characteristics of this jacket are its sharp, flattering blazer cut and its hard-wearing, comfortable natural wool material – and if you’re looking to set off your lederhosen and keep out the cold in style, it is absolutely perfect.
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                 Loden jackets are  the  traditional Bavarian coat that you’ll see smart lederhosen wearers of all ages wearing on days out and special occasions. The two defining characteristics of this jacket are its sharp, flattering blazer cut and its hard-wearing, comfortable natural wool material – and if you’re looking to set off your lederhosen and keep out the cold in style, it is absolutely perfect. 
     The name “loden” comes from German but is also used in English to describe a special way of processing and treating wool to give it a thicker, more structured, felt-like quality. By shrinking wool, it becomes denser and denser, but remains light and breathable: loden can take almost half its own weight in water, offering protection from wet weather and has micro-air pockets between the wool fibres, meaning that it keeps the wearer warm or cools them off according to weather conditions. This age-old wool fabric is one-hundred percent natural, but has similar properties to advanced modern materials like fleece.    Classic loden colours are also traditional: dark greys and browns are the most common, with the grey-tones complementing darker leather breeches while the brown shades suit camel-coloured lederhosen. The real secret of the loden jacket, however, is its sharp cut, which elevates the hard-wearing leather it is worn with from everyday working clothes to a genuinely smart outfit – a little like wearing a blazer with a pair of jeans.   Tradtional Bavarian loden jackets also feature lots of classy detail such as simple, strong dark green borders to pockets and the short, open collar. The buttons, meanwhile, can be made either of metals such as brass, or from buckhorn to give them a really traditional twist. Worn with lederhosen, a smart shirt, and a silky waistcoat, our loden jackets such as Stachus – named for Munich’s most famous square – are simply the icing on the cake for making a really authentic, stylish Oktoberfest impression! 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2014-12-17T13:30:00+01:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">No-goes at the Oktoberfest</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/videos/no-goes-at-the-oktoberfest</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/videos/no-goes-at-the-oktoberfest"/>
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                                            While individual style is important, especially at an event like Oktoberfest, not all fashion is equal. Here are a few definite no-goes on Oktoberfest outfits. Oktoberfest in Munich is a meeting place of people of very different backgrounds and with very different opinions wit...
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                 As well as a festival of Bavarian tradition, the Oktoberfest in Munich is a meeting place for people from all around the world -with very different cultures and divergent opinions with regard to fashion. Americans might not see the problem with wearing flipflops while, unless they&#039;re on the beach, the French wouldn&#039;t be caught dead without a proper pair of shoes.. 
 However, when it comes to the traditional Bavarian costumes many visitors like to wear, it&#039;s the Munich hosts who make the rules! And once they&#039;ve donned their lederhosen, shirts, and shoes, it&#039;s often difficult to tell where people are actually from. Alongside the traditional styles, however, younger Munich residents have taken a more open and casual approach to the outfit. In principle this is a good thing, and it&#039;s great to see locals and tourists playing with traditional dress codes to make a fashion statement or express their personality or own national traditions. 
 But not everything you&#039;ll see being worn at Oktoberfest can be put into the category of &quot;individual taste&quot;. And some outfits meant to be light-hearted or humourous are actually complete faux-pas and downright offensive to Bavarians who love their traditional clothing. Even if nobody will actually confront tourists wearing cheap, ugly novelty &quot;lederhosen&quot; made of plastic or dirndls so short that they leave precious little to the imagination, they certainly won&#039;t be inclined to give them the same warm welcome they will extent to people who make a genuine effort to dress well. 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2013-08-22T15:22:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Oktoberfest Fashion: should you wear a dirndl?</title>
            <id>https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/oktoberfest/oktoberfest-fashion-should-you-wear-a-dirndl</id>
            <link href="https://www.alpenclassics.co.uk/blog/oktoberfest/oktoberfest-fashion-should-you-wear-a-dirndl"/>
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                                            Wearing traditional dress to the Oktoberfest. Choosing the right dirndl or lederhosen. Second-hand dirndl and lederhosen. How to tie a dirndl apron knot. Everyone, it seems, young and old alike, is wearing a traditional Bavarian dirndl (local traditional women&#039;s dress) or lede...
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  Nowadays, everyone - literally everyone, young and old, local and foreign - wears a traditional Bavarian dirndl or lederhosen to the Munich Oktoberfest. In fact, people not wearing the traditional costumes are in the minority at the festival these days. If you don&#039;t have traditional clothing, though, rest assured: the Oktoberfest is about more than just what you&#039;re wearing, traditional or otherwise, and dirndl and lederhosen or not, everyone is there to enjoy themselves and partake in this unique annual Bavarian festival.  
  However, if, like many of the visitors to the Oktoberfest, you find the idea of wearing a dirndl or lederhosen intriguing, then don&#039;t be afraid to take the plunge. You certainly won&#039;t be on your own! The problem you might have, though, is that when you can expect to pay anything upwards of a hundred Euros for your traditional outfit, choosing the right dirndl or the correct lederhosen can be a tricky and baffling affair. You should always make sure that the clothes are of the best quality and have all of the right design elements. It&#039;s a difficult balance to get right: your traditional dirndl or lederhosen need to be timeless and traditional while still reflecting your own unique personality and preferences.   
     
  If you are only planning to visit the Munich Oktoberfest once, the idea of spending a three-figure sum on a dirndl or lederhosen can be a little off-putting, but there are ways around this if, like many of the other visitors to the festival, you really do want to wear traditional dress and fully particpate in the event. Look out for the many second-hand shops both in town and around the festival site itself. You will find many good designs here and at a more reasonable price. And if you later hear someone referring to you as a &quot;Saupreiß&quot; (colloquialism meaning non-native Bavarian) while you are wearing your traditional dress, you can smile and remind them of what their legendary former mayor, Christian Ude, said: &quot;In this city, the reason for wearing traditional costume is to show feelings of togetherness during celebrations.&quot;  
 
 
  And, finally, a tip for women who plan to wear the traditional Bavarian dirndl to the Munich Oktoberfest: be careful which hip you tie the apron knot on. If you tie it on the right hip it indicates that you are married, but if it is on the left hip, it says &quot;I‘m single&quot;.   
 
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                            <updated>2013-08-22T15:16:00+02:00</updated>
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