Charivari

Charivari – the Most Authentic Accessory in Bavarian Costume

A charivari is not an ordinary piece of jewellery. It is a personal object with history – or at least it should be. In the original Bavarian costume tradition, the charivari was a kind of wearable diary: coins from distant cities, hunting trophies, small votive offerings, personal keepsakes. Wearing a well-filled charivari told a story without saying a word about who you were and what you had experienced.

Today charivaris also come as ready-made jewellery pieces – and that is not necessarily a loss. Someone who does not have their own collection but wants to wear a charivari can start with a modern version and enrich it over the years with their own pieces. That is entirely in keeping with tradition.

How to Wear a Charivari

The charivari is attached to the fly of the lederhose – traditionally on the left, sometimes in the centre. The hanging pieces dangle loosely and jingle while walking, which is part of the charm. On dirndls it is attached to the bodice, often slightly to the side so that it lies over the apron.

A charivari should not look rigid. It should hang, jingle, show movement. Stiff, immovably fixed versions lose this character. The attachment is made via a cord or chain hooked onto the trouser button.

Types of Charivari

• Traditional coin charivari: Old coins, talers and small figures. Each piece has its own story. The most valuable charivaris are often family heirlooms.
• Hunting charivari: Gamsbart, antler fragments, teeth and claws. Deeply rooted in hunting culture. Very authentic, though sometimes restricted today by wildlife protection regulations.
• Modern charivari: Metal plates, stylised motifs, clean form. No personal history, but beautifully crafted and the perfect starting point for building a collection.
• Ladies' charivari: More delicate and compact than men's versions. Worn on the dirndl bodice, often with small heart, flower or cross pendants.

Caring for a Charivari

A metal charivari can be polished with a soft cloth. Pieces made from natural materials – antler, teeth, coins – need little maintenance other than being stored dry. Tarnished coins can be cleaned carefully – but not too aggressively, as a slight patina is part of the charm of an authentic charivari.

For the complete men's tracht look: Men's Accessories and Lederhose collection.

Frequently Asked Questions about Charivari