Happy Oktoberfest Weekend

It’s Dirndl Season—think Oktoberfest, and toss on that apron if you’re feeling festive! This season is all about indulging in plush fabrics, exquisite craftsmanship, and a sprinkle of alpine magic. I took the plunge with a chic, vintage-inspired dirndl from the legendary Austrian brand Sportalm Kitzbühel, flaunting my fave duo of fuchsia and turquoise.

A dirndl is like a magic wand for a woman’s silhouette, hugging every curve in the most enchanting way. My awesome son snapped some pics at The Palmetum today for the Melbourne Cup FOTF online competition.

https://www.vrc.com.au/fashions-on-the-field/entries/2025/lynette-stein/

Dressing up has always been my jam, even when I was a tomboy. However, I still love getting my hands greasy—I can wield a spanner, change the oil on my car or bike, and I used to leap into the ring at Fred Brophy’s boxing tent at the show. Those pink ribbons and pigtails were my secret weapon—I’d always bring home the prize money. My dad would flash an “L” with his fingers, and bam! I’d deliver a knockout left hook! Happy weekend everyone! Hope you have a beauty – off to watch the footy final at Octoberfest, and my dads team, Broncos won. He would be raising a Stein or two up in Heaven.

Careful where you tie that bow ???? At Oktoberfest, it’s basically your dating profile ????????

Did you know this?

The specific cultural meaning of the bow’s position is a tradition in Bavarian culture, and the process involves tying a classic bow knot on your apron, with the placement of the knot determining the message you send.

How to Tie Your Dirndl Apron Bow

Gather the straps: Ensure the two straps of your apron are even.
Cross the straps: Cross them behind your back and bring them to the front.
Form a loop: Create a loop with one strap while holding the other steady.
Wrap and pull: Wrap the second strap around the loop, then pull it through to create a second loop.
Tie the knot: Pull both loops to form a tight, neat bow.
Position the bow: Place the completed bow on the left, right, centre, or back, depending on the message you want to send.

The Secret Code of the Bow
Left Side: Single and ready to mingle; open to flirting.
Right Side: Taken; you are married, engaged, or in a relationship.
Centre: Traditionally for virgins or young girls, but not a common or recommended choice for adults.
Back: Widowed or working as a waitress; you can often tell the difference based on whether the person is holding beer mugs.
I didn’t wear my Dirndl to the Octoberfest street celebration – opted for leather look pants – my brain must have been boy thinking, lol.

The traditional German garment that includes leather pants is called Lederhosen (plural) or Lederhose (singular). These are leather breeches or shorts, originally worn by working-class people in the mountainous Alpine regions of Germany, Austria, and other areas, but now a well-known symbol of Bavarian culture and regional identity, often worn at folk festivals like Oktoberfest and other cultural celebrations.
Key characteristics of Lederhosen:
Material:
Traditionally made from various types of leather, such as deer, goat, or cowhide.
Design:
Often feature intricate embroidery, suspenders, and a side knife pocket.
Cultural significance:
Evolved from practical workwear into a symbol of regional identity, heritage, and pride in the Alpine culture.
Occasions:
Worn for festive events, traditional gatherings, and cultural celebrations, particularly in Southern Germany (Bavaria) and Austria.
Types of Lederhosen:
The German word “Lederhosen” can refer to different styles, including the shorter breeches (Lederhosen) and longer trousers (Bundhosen).