The Bavarian dress, dirndl, is part of German heritage and is appreciated for its aesthetically pleasing design. One of the core elements in the bodice design found once only in the vintage dirndl is the criss-cross lacing through the eyelet. The bodice lace closure is still found in some designs, and the art of lacing up a dirndl requires diligently following some steps.
You can choose different types of laces to make your dirndl dress look fresh and exciting every time you wear it. A shimmery, understated solid-color ribbon or a place to form a bow are all ways to style a dirndl.
Types of Lace Options for Dirndl Closures
The first step is handpicking the Dirndl lacing for your Bavarian outfit. The lace is either a ribbon or a cord that comes in different materials and styles. Each option impacts the look.
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Type of Dirndl Lacing |
Description |
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Satin Ribbon |
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Cotton Cord |
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Velvet Ribbon |
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Embroidered Ribbon |
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Chain Lacing |
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Note: The lace should be long enough, nearly 3 to 4 yards, for proper lacing and a bow.
Step-by-Step Guide to Lacing a Dirndl Bodice
Lacing a dirndl bodice through eyelets is simple once you know the steps. Follow this guide to get a snug, comfortable fit and a beautiful look. You’ll need your dirndl, a ribbon or cord, and a mirror (or a friend to help).
Step 1: Prepare the Dirndl and Ribbon
Put on your dirndl blouse and skirt, then slip into the bodice. The bodice should feel loose before lacing. Lay the ribbon flat to remove any twists. If it’s new, stretch it gently to make it easier to work with.
Step 2: Find the Starting Point
Most dirndl bodices have metal or fabric eyelets in two rows down the front. Some have a front panel (called a brustlatz) that covers the lacing, while others show the ribbon. Depending on where you want the bow, start at the bottom or top of the eyelets. This helps the bodice hug your torso evenly.
Step 3: Thread the Ribbon Through the Bottom Eyelets
Take one end of the ribbon and push it through the bottom left eyelet, from the inside of the bodice to the outside. Pull until both ends of the ribbon are even. Then, take the right end and thread it through the bottom right eyelet, also from inside to outside. You now have two ribbon ends sticking out, one on each side.
Step 4: Cross and Thread Upward
Cross the left ribbon end over to the right side and thread it through the next eyelet up on the right, from outside to inside. Do the same with the right ribbon end, crossing it to the left and threading it through the next left eyelet, outside to inside. This creates an “X” pattern. Keep the ribbon flat to avoid twists.
Step 5: Continue Lacing
Repeat the crossing pattern, moving up the bodice. Cross the left ribbon to the right eyelet and the right ribbon to the left eyelet. Always thread from outside to inside. Pull gently after each cross to tighten the bodice. Don’t pull too hard yet.
Step 6: Check the Fit
The bodice should feel snug but not tight when the dirndl bodice is done. It should be comfortable enough to move and breathe easily. Pull the laces lightly from the bottom up to adjust the fit if it's too tight or too loose.
Step 7: Secure the Laces
You’ll have two ribbon ends at the top. Thread them through the final eyelets (outside to inside) and pull them toward the center. If your dirndl has a brustlatz panel, the laces will be hidden. If not, the crisscross pattern will show as a pretty design.
Step 8: Tie a Bow
The exciting part is typing the bow! Bring both ends of the ribbon together at the middle of the waist or slightly below the bust.
Tie a simple knot to keep the laces in place. Create a bow by crossing two loops with the ends of the ribbon. Tighten the loops and make sure they are even. Fluff it up to make the bow full and attractive.
Step 9: Final Adjustments
Stand in front of a mirror and check the lacing. The ribbon should lie flat, with no twists. The bodice should feel supportive but not squeeze. If needed, tug the laces gently to adjust the fit. Tuck any extra ribbon ends behind the bow for a neat look.
Wrapping It Up!
The dirndl dress has three main components and many small accents that distinguish it from a regular frock or dress. The bodice of the Bavarian outfit has small eyelets for closure through lacing. The art of lacing a dirndl is satisfying and requires following a few easy steps. There are tons of options for lacing a dirndl. Cotton cord is great for everyday looks, satin lace is perfect for festive occasions like Oktoberfest, and velvet or embroidered lace matches the wedding setting.