Which dirndl suits me? The dirndl figure guide
Everyone has heard the saying: A dirndl flatters every figure. Whether you're tall, petite, slim, or curvy – a dirndl, when chosen correctly, really suits every body shape. To help you navigate the dirndl jungle, we’ve created the ultimate Dirndl Figure Guide.
Here, we’ll share tips and tricks to help you highlight your figure with the perfect dirndl. Which dirndl suits which body shape, and what should you look out for? We’ll help you find the right dirndl in no time!
What determines your body type?
If someone asks about your weight, you might be able to answer to the nearest 100 grams – but here it's not about BMI, weight, or “problem areas”. It’s about proportions. It doesn't matter whether you weigh 55 or 85 kilos – what matters is how your weight is distributed across your body.
We girls are all different – just like our body proportions. So forget about numbers on a scale. Your body type is defined by your proportions.
Why is the Dirndl Figure Guide important?
We girls often focus way too much on our supposed flaws: thick thighs, small busts, a little belly fat...
But it’s not about those little imperfections – even supermodels find things to complain about if they look long enough. Our different shapes are what make us unique and beautiful! Real women, who walk around unfiltered, have all sorts of proportions: wide or narrow shoulders, big or small busts, defined or subtle waists, long or short legs, curvy or straight hips – all these things make your body one-of-a-kind.
Instead of spending hours in front of the mirror and secretly comparing yourself to others, here’s the new rule: Shift your focus! Different proportions aren’t something to hide – they should be celebrated and styled with confidence.
Luckily, the world of fashion – and dirndl fashion too – is wonderfully diverse and offers plenty of clever tricks to bring out your best features. With the right cut, fabric, color, pattern, and accessories, you can balance your figure and create a stunning WOW effect.
What are the different body types?
We’ve identified five main figure types:
A-Madl
You're an A-Madl if:
- Your upper body is significantly slimmer than your lower body.
- Your body’s center of gravity is in the lower half.
- Your shoulders are narrower than your hips.
- You have a slim and well-defined waist.
- Your hips and butt are wider than your shoulders.
- Your legs are shorter and/or sturdier.
The perfect dirndl for A-Madl
A narrow waist, petite shoulders, and a curvier lower body – these are the defining features of an A-Madl. Your perfect dirndl should balance out the hips and thighs, lengthen the legs, and highlight your upper body.
Look for a form-fitting waistline – but don’t go too tight, or you’ll over-emphasize your hips. Choose bold colors, patterns, and shiny fabrics only for the bodice. Your dirndl top should end at or just below your narrowest point. Below that: simple, solid colors and matte fabrics.
The Dirndl
A dark skirt with floral accents on the bodice will draw the eye upward – the area you want to highlight. The goal is: understated on the bottom, exciting on top.
Solid-color dirndls
Use eye-catching details up top – statement jewelry, ruffles, collars, shoulder accents. A Snow White collar or a dramatic neckline works wonders. Below the waist, keep it subtle.
The blouse
Go for puff sleeves and a boat or Carmen neckline to accentuate your shoulders and create balance with your hips.
The apron and bow
A classic apron cut that lies flat is ideal – avoid shiny fabrics. A bright, colorful bow will emphasize your slim waist.
Skirt length
Petite A-Madls should go for knee-length skirts (about a hand above the knee). Taller girls can also rock mid-length or calf-length dirndls.
Shoes
Heels are your best friend – they lengthen your legs and complete the silhouette. But avoid delicate straps or skinny heels – they contrast too much with sturdy legs.
H-Madl
You're an H-Madl if:
- Your waist is straight and barely defined.
- Your shoulders and hips are about the same width.
- You have long, slender arms and legs.
- Your body has a sporty or androgynous look with no strong focal point.
The perfect dirndl for H-Madl
While H-Madls might lack curves, they often have beautiful long limbs. With the right dirndl, even a straighter figure becomes a curvy dream.
The Dirndl
Opt for a bodice with a gentle or deep V-neckline – this adds volume to the bust area. A wide, flared skirt enhances curves, especially with subtle apron ties or slanted seams and decorative trims.
Combine a flowy skirt with a fitted bodice to create the illusion of a defined waist and curvier hips.
Details
Feminine accents like ruffles, draping, bows, and lace break up the androgynous look – but use them strategically at the bust, shoulders, or hips.
Patterns
Clean, structured patterns like stripes or checks work well. If you prefer solid colors, ensure the apron bow blends harmoniously with the rest.
Skirt length
Ideal length is just above the knee to show off those long legs.
Shoes
H-Madls have freedom here – but flats, lace-ups, or trendy sneakers are often the best match to avoid over-stretching the silhouette.
O-Madl
You're an O-Madl if:
- Your body’s center of gravity is around the stomach and waist area.
- Your narrowest point isn’t at the waist, but just below the bust.
- Your forearms and wrists are slender and delicate.
- Your midsection is the most prominent part of your body.
- Your legs – especially calves and ankles – are slim and shapely.
The perfect dirndl for O-Madl
As an O-Madl, your midsection is your soft, feminine center. Your figure is wonderfully round and womanly, and you likely have beautiful legs and fine arms.
Avoid anything that emphasizes the belly or natural waist. No bold waistbands or contrasting apron ties. Stick with subtle, matte fabrics for the torso, and choose simple dirndl styles.
Neckline
Draw attention upward – to your bust and neckline. Collars, statement necklaces, or V-shaped necklines work wonders. Try scarves or shawls with bold patterns.
Shoulders
Use boat necklines and wide straps to balance your figure. If you have slim upper arms, puff sleeves can work. For broader arms, avoid additional volume.
Show off your wrists
Choose ¾ sleeves or bell sleeves that highlight your wrists. You can also wear a beautiful traditional bracelet. Your legs and ankles can also take center stage – go bold with patterns, lace, or decorative accents. T-strap heels, Mary Janes, or ankle boots are ideal for showing them off.
Material
Choose soft, flowing fabrics that skim over the belly and waist. The fabric should hug gently without clinging, especially around the midsection. It can be more fitted in the bust area.
X-Madl
You're an X-Madl if:
- Your shoulders and hips are about the same width.
- You have a very slim waist and strong hips.
- You have a larger bust.
- Your upper arms are on the stronger side.
- Your butt and thighs are fuller.
The perfect dirndl for X-Madl
With your feminine curves and defined waist, you already have the classic dirndl figure. A few styling tips will help you enhance this silhouette.
Highlight your waist
Your waist-to-hip line is your best asset – show it off! Dirndls with contrasting colors and fitted cuts around the waist bring out your shape beautifully.
Accentuate the neckline
Go for wider, modest necklines (like V-neck or sweetheart) that flatter a larger bust. Add a touch of lace, ruffles, or bows for charm – especially if the dirndl is otherwise simple.
Elongate your silhouette with vertical lines
V-necks and tunic styles are great for adding length. On colder days, wear a blazer with a deep lapel or a flowing shawl to keep the visual line going. Don’t forget: heels make your legs look longer.
Avoid bulk around the midsection
In everyday outfits, skip skirts or pants with pleats or pockets at the belly. Dirndls are usually fitted at the waist, but the apron bow balances things out, so it’s not a problem.
Waist focus
If your tummy is flat, wear skirts and trousers at the natural waist. If you have a little belly, lower the waistband slightly – but never below the belly. With dirndls, since the waistline is already defined, choose an apron in a matching or subtle color to avoid too much contrast.
Neckline or legs – not both
X-Madls have naturally sexy curves, so don’t overdo it. Choose between showing cleavage or legs. The ideal skirt length is knee-length or just below. Taller X-Madls can wear calf- or full-length skirts too.
Y-Madl
You're a Y-Madl if:
- Your upper body is broader than your lower body – especially in the shoulders and chest.
- Your shoulders are wider than your hips.
- Your shoulders are square and not sloped.
- Your waist is straight or only slightly defined.
- You have a fuller bust and ribcage.
- Your hips are narrow and boyish.
- You have long, slender legs.
The perfect dirndl for Y-Madl
With your strong upper body and delicate lower body, your goal is to balance the proportions. There are two types of Y-Madls: sporty and curvy. Sporty types have broad shoulders and chest but a smaller bust; curvy types have both.
To balance your proportions, add vertical lines and draw attention downward – to your legs, hips, and butt.
Avoid adding bulk to the upper body
Skip puff sleeves and shoulder embellishments. Instead, choose a clean V-neckline, lowered waist, and vertical seams to flatter your shape.
Soften the shoulders
Use necklines and sleeves that round the shoulders. Seams and shapes that taper toward the neck help visually slim the area. Avoid spaghetti straps.
Go for V-neck dirndls
Necklines that break up the bust visually are ideal. V-necks, lapel collars, and wrap styles work well. Explore our vintage dirndls for flattering cuts.
Don’t shorten the upper body
A longer torso balances wide shoulders. Since dirndls can't easily change torso length, choose subtle, narrow apron ties to avoid drawing attention to the waistline.
Add volume to the lower body
To offset your upper half, you can go bold with your skirt: shiny fabrics, vibrant patterns, or textured aprons all help create a more balanced silhouette.
Color tips
Keep dark, matte tones on top and lighter, brighter, or patterned fabrics on the bottom. If your dirndl has a set color split (bodice vs. skirt), make sure it’s not a harsh contrast.
A solid-color dirndl creates a continuous vertical line – perfect for balancing the top half. If you choose patterns, go for ones that increase in size from top to bottom.
Unsure about patterns? Stick to small, geometric prints for a safe bet.
Dirndl Guide for Plus-Size Women
“Do you even have a dirndl in my size?” or “Nothing ever fits me…” – I hear this all the time! The answer: Yes, there’s a perfect dirndl for every woman. You’ll even find beautiful options in larger sizes.
Key tip: make sure your skirt is not too short – knee-length at the very least, ideally calf-length. Don’t tighten the waist too much – it only emphasizes the hips. Stick with muted colors and minimal frills – this applies to both dirndl and blouse.
Instead, draw the eye to your neckline or another highlight: your beautiful face, fabulous cleavage, or stunning braided hairstyle.
Practice makes perfect
Recognize yourself in one of these Madl types? Remember: your body is just as unique as you are. The key to finding the perfect dirndl is knowing how to highlight your assets and play down your less favorite parts.
For more tips, check out our article “How Should a Dirndl Fit?”.
So remember the golden rule of the figure guide: Show off your best features – and forget about your weight or “flaws.” A few clever styling choices, and your dirndl look will be perfect. Let us know – which Madl type are you?
