How to Measure Yourself for a Dirndl

At eLederhosen, we take pride in offering authentic Bavarian Dirndls in a full range of standard sizes — ensuring you find the right fit for your measurements. Every piece is hand-cut and stitched in the authentic Bavarian Trachten tradition.

Important — How a Dirndl Should Fit

The dirndl bodice (Mieder) is designed to fit very tight against the body — like a second skin. Authentic Trachten is meant to shape the torso, not drape loosely.

Order by your actual body measurements in centimetres, not your usual dress size. If you fall between two sizes, order the smaller size — the lace-up back gives several centimetres of adjustment, and the fabric will mould to your body. A dirndl ordered too loose will never look authentic, no matter how fine the fabric.

Bust, Waist, and Hip Measurements

To get your custom-made Dirndl, follow these three steps. Use a soft measuring tape, wear normal undergarments, and stand relaxed while measuring.

  1. Bust: Measure around the fullest part of your bust, keeping the tape level and parallel to the floor. Snug but not compressed.
  2. Waist: Measure around the narrowest part of your waist — typically just above your belly button. Stand relaxed, exhale normally.
  3. Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your hips, ensuring the tape is level all the way around.

Dirndl Length

After recording your bust, waist, and hip measurements, choose your preferred dirndl length based on your height and the occasion. We offer three standard length options:

  • 50 cm skirt length — Short/Mini Dirndl, above-the-knee. Casual, modern, summer festival wear.
  • 60 cm skirt length — Midi Dirndl (Wadenlange Dirndl), mid-calf. The most traditional and versatile length for Oktoberfest, weddings, and all Bavarian occasions.
  • 70 cm skirt length — Maxi Dirndl, ankle-length. Formal, ceremonial, traditional heritage occasions.

Tip: If you need styling help putting together your full Trachten look — pairing your dirndl with a blouse, apron, and accessories — visit our Outfit Studio → to build a complete outfit.

Measuring Tips

  • Measure in centimetres. cm gives more precise sizing than inches and matches our charts directly.
  • Use a soft measuring tape, never a ruler. A flexible tape wraps around the body accurately; a ruler cannot.
  • Stand relaxed and breathe normally. Don't suck in your stomach or expand your chest — measure your real body.
  • Get a second opinion if possible. Self-measuring bust and hip can be awkward; having someone help improves accuracy.
  • Wear normal undergarments while measuring. Measure as you will wear the dirndl, with the bra and shapewear you typically use.

Dirndl/ Trachten Blouse/ Top Size Chart — Body Measurements

All measurements are body measurements in centimetres. If you are between two sizes, order the smaller size for the authentic fitted Trachten silhouette.

German Size Bust (cm) Waist (cm) Hip (cm) US UK International
32 78–81 60–63 84–87 0–2 4–6 XS
34 82–85 64–67 88–91 2–4 6–8 XS
36 86–89 68–71 92–95 4–6 8–10 S
38 90–93 72–75 96–99 6–8 10–12 S
40 94–97 76–79 100–103 8–10 12–14 M
42 98–101 80–84 104–107 10–12 14–16 M
44 102–106 85–89 108–112 12–14 16–18 L
46 107–112 90–94 113–117 14–16 18–20 L
48 113–118 95–100 118–122 16–18 20–22 XL
50 119–124 101–106 123–127 18–20 22–24 XL

For sizes above 50, see our Plus-Size Dirndl collection →.

View our complete Size & Fit Guide →