Oktoberfest Costumes & What to Wear in London: The Complete 2026 Guide

Discover what to wear to Oktoberfest in London in 2026, from lederhosen and dirndl costumes to Bavarian fancy dress, accessories and group costume ideas.

Oktoberfest Costumes & What to Wear in London: The Complete 2026 Guide

Looking for Oktoberfest costumes in London or wondering what to wear to an Oktoberfest party in 2026? From classic lederhosen and dirndl costumes to Bavarian accessories, Oktoberfest fancy dress is one of the easiest ways to get into the spirit of a German-themed celebration.

Whether you're attending an Oktoberfest event in London, a beer festival, a themed party, a work event or a night out with friends, this guide explains what to wear to Oktoberfest, how to choose an Oktoberfest costume and where to find Oktoberfest fancy dress in London and across the UK.

Party Spirit has a wide range of Oktoberfest costumes including Bavarian-inspired outfits, lederhosen, dirndl styles and accessories for adults, couples and groups.

What Is Oktoberfest?

Oktoberfest is a famous Bavarian festival that originated in Munich, Germany, and has become a major celebration around the world. Today, Oktoberfest-inspired events take place in many countries, including the UK.

London has a number of Oktoberfest celebrations and German-themed beer festivals during September and October. In 2026, for example, London events are taking place at different venues and dates, so it is worth checking the specific event you plan to attend before travelling. 

While food, music and beer are important parts of the celebration, dressing in Bavarian-inspired clothing has also become a popular part of Oktoberfest events.

What Should You Wear to Oktoberfest?

If you're wondering what to wear to Oktoberfest, the two most recognisable choices are lederhosen and dirndl costumes.

Popular Oktoberfest outfit choices include:

  • Lederhosen costumes
  • Dirndl dresses
  • Bavarian shirts
  • Bavarian waistcoats
  • Traditional-style hats
  • Oktoberfest wigs
  • German and Bavarian accessories
  • Beer festival fancy dress

You don't have to create an extremely traditional outfit. Many people choose a fun Bavarian-inspired costume that captures the Oktoberfest look while being comfortable and suitable for a party.

Oktoberfest Lederhosen Costumes

Lederhosen are probably the most recognisable men's Oktoberfest costume. They are traditionally leather breeches, often worn with braces and a shirt.

For an Oktoberfest fancy dress party, a lederhosen-inspired costume can be combined with a checked shirt, socks, hat and other Bavarian accessories.

Lederhosen are also a great choice for groups because several people can coordinate their outfits without needing to wear exactly the same costume.

Oktoberfest Dirndl Costumes

A dirndl is one of the most recognisable women's outfits associated with Bavarian dress and Oktoberfest.

Dirndl-inspired fancy dress commonly combines a dress with a blouse and apron-style detail. Different colours and styles make it easy to create a look that suits your personality.

If you're attending an Oktoberfest party in London, a dirndl costume is an easy way to create a recognisable Bavarian-inspired outfit.

Oktoberfest Costumes for Couples

Going to Oktoberfest with your partner? Coordinated costumes can make your outfits look great together.

A classic combination is lederhosen and dirndl, but you can also coordinate colours, accessories, hats or wigs.

You don't need identical costumes. Choosing complementary outfits usually creates a more interesting couples' look.

Oktoberfest Costumes for Groups

Oktoberfest is particularly good for group fancy dress. Friends, colleagues and large groups can create a shared Bavarian theme while allowing each person to choose their own costume.

A group could combine lederhosen, dirndl costumes, Bavarian shirts, hats, wigs and other accessories.

If you're organising a large group, it is worth shopping early so you have more choice of sizes and styles.

Oktoberfest Costumes for Women

Women have plenty of choices when it comes to Oktoberfest fancy dress. Dirndl-inspired costumes are the obvious choice, but Bavarian-style dresses, skirts, tops, wigs and accessories can also be used to create a themed look.

You can keep your outfit traditional-inspired or choose something more playful and colourful depending on the type of event you're attending.

Oktoberfest Costumes for Men

For men, a lederhosen costume is one of the easiest ways to create a classic Oktoberfest look.

Complete the outfit with a checked shirt, braces, socks, hat or other Bavarian accessories.

For a more relaxed approach, a Bavarian-style shirt and accessories can also create a German-themed outfit without wearing a complete costume.

Oktoberfest Accessories

Accessories can completely change the appearance of an Oktoberfest outfit. They are also useful if you don't want to buy a complete costume.

  • Bavarian and Oktoberfest hats
  • Wigs
  • Moustaches
  • Traditional-style socks
  • Braces
  • Waistcoats
  • Novelty beer-themed accessories
  • Other Bavarian-inspired accessories

You can also explore Oktoberfest wigs to add a finishing touch to your outfit.

What to Wear to an Oktoberfest Party in London

If your event is a London Oktoberfest party, you don't necessarily need a fully traditional outfit. The right costume depends on the venue and type of celebration.

For a large beer festival or Bavarian-themed event, lederhosen and dirndl costumes are an easy choice. For a pub party or casual event, you could choose a Bavarian shirt, accessories or a more playful beer festival costume.

London Oktoberfest events can vary considerably in size and style, so check the event details before deciding how elaborate your outfit needs to be.

Oktoberfest Costume Ideas for 2026

Looking for something beyond the classic lederhosen and dirndl? Here are some ideas for 2026:

  • Classic Bavarian: Lederhosen, shirt, socks and hat.
  • Traditional-inspired: Dirndl with accessories and wig.
  • Couples: Coordinated lederhosen and dirndl.
  • Group: Matching Bavarian colours and accessories.
  • Funny: Beer-themed or novelty fancy dress.
  • Simple: Bavarian shirt with accessories.

Where to Buy Oktoberfest Costumes in London

If you're searching for an Oktoberfest costume shop in London, Party Spirit is a specialist London fancy dress and costume shop located at 179 Holloway Road, London N7 8LX.

You can shop online or visit the store to look for Oktoberfest costumes, Bavarian fancy dress, lederhosen, dirndl-inspired outfits, wigs and accessories.

Browse the full Oktoberfest Costumes collection online.

Where to Buy Oktoberfest Costumes in the UK

You don't have to live in London to shop for Oktoberfest fancy dress. Party Spirit also offers online shopping for customers across the UK.

This makes it easy to order an Oktoberfest costume whether you're attending a London event, a local beer festival or a German-themed party elsewhere in the UK.

Oktoberfest Costumes for Beer Festivals & Themed Parties

Oktoberfest fancy dress isn't only for official Oktoberfest events. Lederhosen, dirndl costumes and Bavarian outfits are also popular for beer festivals, German-themed parties, pub events, birthdays, work parties and group nights out.

If you're planning a themed celebration, you can also combine costumes with party decorations and tableware to create a complete Bavarian-inspired party atmosphere.

Explore our party decorations and tableware for more ideas.

How to Choose the Right Oktoberfest Costume

When choosing your Oktoberfest outfit, think about the type of event, weather, comfort and how long you will be wearing the costume.

  • Choose a style suitable for the event.
  • Check the available costume sizes carefully.
  • Consider whether you need a full costume or accessories.
  • Choose comfortable footwear for longer events.
  • Coordinate with friends if you're attending as a group.
  • Order early if you need a particular size or style.

Is Oktoberfest Fancy Dress Only for Oktoberfest?

No. Oktoberfest and Bavarian-inspired costumes can be used for many different occasions.

Lederhosen, dirndl costumes and German fancy dress can work for themed parties, beer festivals, birthdays, stag and hen parties, work events, college events and other fancy dress celebrations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Oktoberfest Costumes

What should I wear to Oktoberfest?

The most recognisable Oktoberfest outfit choices are lederhosen for men and dirndl-inspired costumes for women. You can complete the look with Bavarian shirts, hats, socks, wigs and other accessories.

What is the best costume for Oktoberfest?

A classic lederhosen or dirndl-inspired outfit is one of the easiest choices for Oktoberfest. You can choose a traditional-inspired style or a fun Bavarian fancy dress costume depending on your event.

Where can I buy Oktoberfest costumes in London?

Party Spirit sells Oktoberfest costumes and Bavarian fancy dress online and from its London costume shop at 179 Holloway Road, London N7 8LX.

Where can I buy Oktoberfest costumes in the UK?

You can shop Party Spirit's Oktoberfest costume collection online from across the UK, including lederhosen, Bavarian-inspired outfits, dirndl styles and accessories.

What do men wear to Oktoberfest?

Lederhosen are a popular Oktoberfest choice for men. They can be paired with a Bavarian-style or checked shirt, braces, socks, a hat and other accessories.

What do women wear to Oktoberfest?

Dirndl-inspired costumes are one of the most recognisable choices for women. They can be styled with accessories, wigs and other Bavarian-inspired finishing touches.

Can couples wear matching Oktoberfest costumes?

Yes. A coordinated lederhosen and dirndl combination is a classic couples' Oktoberfest look. You can also coordinate colours and accessories.

What are good Oktoberfest costumes for groups?

Groups can combine lederhosen, dirndl costumes, Bavarian shirts, hats, wigs and accessories. Everyone can choose a different costume while keeping the same Bavarian theme.

Can I wear a Bavarian costume to a beer festival?

Yes. Bavarian and Oktoberfest-inspired fancy dress can be suitable for beer festivals, themed parties and German-inspired events. Check the dress code of your specific event before attending.

Can I wear Oktoberfest fancy dress to a normal party?

Yes. Lederhosen, dirndl costumes and Bavarian fancy dress can also be used for themed parties, birthdays, work events and other fancy dress occasions.

Where can I buy lederhosen in London?

Party Spirit's Oktoberfest collection includes Bavarian-inspired fancy dress and lederhosen-style costumes. You can shop online or visit the London store at 179 Holloway Road, London N7 8LX.

Where can I buy a dirndl costume in London?

You can browse Party Spirit's Oktoberfest collection online or visit the London fancy dress shop on Holloway Road for available Bavarian-inspired costumes and accessories.

Do you sell Oktoberfest wigs and accessories?

Yes. Party Spirit has Oktoberfest and Bavarian-inspired accessories, including wigs and other finishing touches for your costume.

When should I buy an Oktoberfest costume?

It is best to shop early if you need a particular size, costume style or matching outfits for a group. This also gives you more time to choose accessories and complete your look.

Where is Party Spirit's Oktoberfest costume shop in London?

Party Spirit is located at 179 Holloway Road, London N7 8LX in North London. You can visit the store to browse fancy dress costumes, wigs, accessories and other party products.

Can I buy Oktoberfest costumes online?

Yes. You can shop Party Spirit's Oktoberfest costume collection online and order across the UK.

Get Ready for Oktoberfest 2026

Whether you're looking for a classic lederhosen outfit, a dirndl costume, a Bavarian fancy dress outfit for a party or accessories to complete your look, choosing your costume early gives you more time to get ready.

If you're shopping in London, visit Party Spirit at 179 Holloway Road, London N7 8LX, or browse the Oktoberfest Costumes collection online.

For more costume inspiration, you can also explore our other Oktoberfest costume ideas and discover more fancy dress ideas for your next event.

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