The Montafon traditional costume is deeply rooted in history and is still worn today. The women's costume in particular stands out with its ornate decorations, handcrafted details and fine fabrics. Since its beginnings in the 18th century, it has constantly evolved and new variations have been added. Thanks to traditional costume associations, artisans and dedicated wearers, this tradition remains alive and part of the regional identity.
Living cultural heritage
UNESCO recognizes tradition as Austria's intangible cultural heritage.
Since December 2024, knowledge of the Montafon traditional costume has been officially included in the National Register of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
The Montafon Schäppel and the Montafon Mäßle with their typical fabrics, colors and motifs are an integral part of the regional identity. Their craft has been passed down for generations and strengthens social cohesion.
UNESCO emphasizes that traditions such as these keep the cultural heritage alive and shape the region.
Festive costume - the most magnificent costume in the Montafon
The Montafon festive costume impresses with its fine, black wool fabric and elaborate embroidery.
"The handmade embellishments in particular make it so precious," explains Ulrike Bitschnau from the Vorarlberg Regional Costume Association. Local flower motifs and gold loops adorn apron strings, collars, sleeves of the Glöggletschopa, plaited ribbons and the breast cloth - these embroideries alone require around 500 hours of work.
Headgear - variety in form and meaning
The Montafon women's costume includes various headdresses.
The Schäppel made of gold or silver wire, decorated with glass stones, pearls and silk flowers, is reminiscent of a crown and is worn by girls until they get married.
The Mäßli, felted from sheep's wool, derives its shape and name from a grain measure and has only been produced again since 2012.
For around 100 years, the Sander hat has complemented the traditional costume - made from black felt or straw and decorated with gold trim on the underside of the brim.
Men's costume - historically inspired, still worn today
Finally, a brief look at the Montafon men's costume: for the 60th anniversary of the reign of Franz Josef I in 1908, the men's costume as it is worn today was reconstructed according to old patterns.
It consists of black loden knickerbockers, a white cotton shirt, a black bow around the neck, a red vest made of loden cloth, a jacket made of dark blue loden and a top hat.
Book tip - The traditional costumes in the Montafon
BUCHER Verlag, Publisher: Vorarlberger Landestrachtenverband, Research: Ulrike O. Bitschnau, Design: Wolfgang Rützler, Hardcover, 128 pages, ISBN 978-3-99018-378-6, 24 Euro
