Socialising with the Austrians 69are usually only worn for balls but they can be worn for the
opera as well). Julie has known young people who were not
allowed into the Opera House for a performance because
they were wearing jeans.
Dinner at a restaurant requires semi-formal wear: no
jeans, beach sandals or shorts. It is extremely embarrassing
when you are thrown out for improper attire. However in
the summer, the Schanigärten and Heurigen do not care
what you wear.
When going for walks in the country, people will wear more
comfortable clothing such as jeans and hiking shoes or they
may opt to dress in Trachten or traditional Austrian clothing
(many stores carry a modern, affordable version): Lederhosen
for men (usually older men) and boys; short-walking Loden
jackets (buttons can be made out of bone or plastic) for
men, women and children; checkered or plain white shirts
for men, women (sometimes with frilled collar and cuff) and
children. Walkers often wear pants of linen or denim, with
flowers stitched on the pockets for women; traditional Dirndl,
or dresses, for women and girls; scarves with Edelweiss
(mountain flower) for women and children; sturdy shoes for
men and children with Edelweiss decoration, and similarly
decorated high-heeled versions for women; and green or
grey felt hats worn with a Gamsbart (like a shaving brush).
Austrian children are well behaved and respectful of adults.