The Norwegian bunad is one of the country鈥檚 most recognisable cultural symbols, but its story is far more complex than many visitors realise. From regional identity to modern craftsmanship, here鈥檚 what you need to know.
A bunad is Norway鈥檚 traditional folk costume, worn to celebrate identity, heritage, and belonging. You鈥檒l see them all over the country, particularly on special occasions, worn by people of all ages.
Although bunads are most commonly associated with women, men鈥檚 bunads are also widely worn and are growing in popularity.
For visitors, the most striking time to see bunads is on Norwegian Constitution Day, when towns and cities across Norway fill with colour, embroidery, and silver. But to understand the bunad properly, you need to look beyond that single day.
Table of Contents
What Is a Bunad?
At its simplest, a bunad is a traditional Norwegian costume, but that definition only scratches the surface.
Bunads are formal garments rooted in historical clothing traditions from rural Norway. They are typically made from wool, designed to be fitted, and richly decorated with embroidery, woven fabrics, and silver jewellery.
Each bunad reflects a specific region, and sometimes even a specific village or valley. In that sense, it is not just clothing but a visual expression of identity.
Read more: On Wearing A Bunad For The First Time In 20 Years
Today, there are around 450 recognised bunads or bunad variants in Norway. That鈥檚 an extraordinary number for a country of just over five million people, and it reflects the deep regional diversity that still defines Norwegian culture.
Bunad vs Folk Costume: What鈥檚 the Difference?
To really understand the bunad, it helps to distinguish it from another term you鈥檒l sometimes hear: folkedrakt, or folk costume.
Folkedrakt refers to traditional clothing that evolved naturally in rural communities and was worn as everyday dress in earlier centuries. These garments developed over time, shaped by local materials, climate, and customs.
Bunads, on the other hand, are often later reconstructions or interpretations of these traditions. Many were designed or standardised in the 20th century, based on historical research, surviving garments, and regional textile traditions.
In practice, the line between the two can blur. Some bunads are very close to original folkedrakt traditions, while others are more stylised interpretations.
A Modern Tradition with Deep Roots
One of the most common misconceptions about bunads is that they have been worn in their current form for hundreds of years. In reality, the modern bunad is largely a 20th-century development.
However, that does not mean it is an invented tradition. Bunads are deeply rooted in older clothing traditions from Norway鈥檚 pre-industrial farming society. What changed in the 1900s was the way those traditions were documented, revived, and formalised.
The bunad movement emerged during a period of strong national identity-building in Norway. Around the time of independence from Sweden in 1905, there was a growing desire to define what it meant to be Norwegian.
Traditional clothing became part of that answer.
The Bunad Movement: Hulda Garborg and Beyond
The person most often associated with the early bunad movement is .
A writer, playwright, and cultural activist, Garborg travelled widely across Norway collecting inspiration from traditional dress. In 1903, she published Norsk Kl忙debunad, which helped spark renewed interest in traditional clothing.
However, the bunad movement was not the work of one person alone.
Klara Semb played a crucial role in developing more historically grounded designs, while Aagot Noss later documented and analysed traditional clothing in detail.
Together with craftspeople, historians, and institutions, they shaped what we now recognise as bunad culture.
When Do Norwegians Wear Bunads?
Despite how visible bunads are on special occasions, they are not everyday clothing. Instead, bunads are reserved for life鈥檚 most important moments.
You鈥檒l typically see them worn at weddings, confirmations, baptisms, and milestone birthdays. They are also common at church services and cultural celebrations.
But above all, bunads are associated with Norwegian Constitution Day. On this day, large numbers of Norwegians dress in bunad, although not everyone owns one. Many others wear suits, dresses, or festdrakt.
Regional Identity and the 鈥淩ules鈥� of Bunad
One of the defining features of the bunad is its connection to place.
Traditionally, people choose a bunad from a region they have a personal connection to, whether through family heritage or where they grew up. The idea is that the bunad represents your story.
That said, these 鈥渞ules鈥� are not absolute. In modern Norway, many people choose a bunad simply because they like the design, or because they feel a connection to a place through life experience rather than ancestry.
The idea of strict rules is often jokingly referred to as the 鈥渂unad police.鈥� While partly humorous, it also reflects an ongoing cultural conversation about authenticity, craftsmanship, and tradition.
Bunad Craftsmanship and Materials
A bunad is not just clothing. It is a handcrafted piece of cultural heritage.
Most bunads are made from wool, with linen shirts and intricate embroidery. The level of detail can be extraordinary, particularly in hand-stitched designs.
Silver jewellery, known as 蝉酶濒箩别, is a central part of many bunads. These pieces vary by region and often carry symbolic meaning. Historically, silver was believed to offer protection, and many items are passed down through generations.
A full bunad outfit can include:
- A dress or suit
- Embroidered shirt
- Apron (for many women鈥檚 bunads)
- Shawl or cape
- Headwear
- Shoes
- Silver jewellery
Each element contributes to the overall look, and quality craftsmanship is highly valued.
How Much Does a Bunad Cost?
A bunad is a significant investment. Prices vary widely depending on the region, materials, and level of craftsmanship.
As a general guide, a women鈥檚 bunad today often starts at around NOK 35,000 and can easily exceed NOK 50,000 once accessories are included. Men鈥檚 bunads can be similarly priced or even higher.
Several factors influence the cost:
- Hand embroidery versus machine embroidery
- Type and quantity of silver jewellery
- Tailoring and custom fitting
- Additional items such as shawls and headwear
Because of the cost, bunads are often purchased for major life events such as confirmations, and are intended to last a lifetime.
Popular Regional Bunads
With around 450 recognised bunads across Norway, it鈥檚 impossible to cover them all. However, some stand out either for their historical importance, widespread use, or distinctive design.
What becomes clear very quickly is that bunads are not just regional, but deeply local. Even neighbouring valleys can have noticeably different traditions.
Nordland Bunad
The Nordland bunad is one of the most popular modern designs and is widely worn across the country.
The women鈥檚 version is known for its rich blue fabric and floral embroidery. Interestingly, the original design was intended to be green, but blue became dominant due to fabric availability at the time.
The men鈥檚 version features a vest, knee-length trousers, and traditional stockings, creating a classic and balanced look.
Hardanger Bunad
Often considered Norway鈥檚 most iconic bunad, the Hardanger style played a central role in shaping the country鈥檚 national identity.
Characterised by a red bodice, white embroidered apron, and intricate detailing, it became widely associated with Norway around the time of independence in 1905. For many years, it was effectively treated as the country鈥檚 national costume.
Headwear traditionally indicated marital status, adding another layer of meaning to the outfit. Even today, Hardanger remains one of the most recognisable bunads both within Norway and internationally.
Telemark Bunad
Telemark is one of Norway鈥檚 richest regions for bunad diversity.
Rather than a single design, the region includes multiple traditions such as beltestakk, 谤补耻诲迟谤酶测别, and 驳谤氓迟谤酶测别. These vary in colour, embroidery, and structure, reflecting Telemark鈥檚 long-standing reputation for textile craftsmanship.
Telemark bunads are often considered among the most 鈥渢raditional鈥� in the sense that they closely reflect older folk costume traditions.
Bunad from Setesdal
Setesdal offers one of the clearest links between historical folk dress and modern bunad.
The men鈥檚 bunad is particularly distinctive, featuring black knee-length trousers and a richly decorated red vest. It remains closely connected to older traditions that were once worn in everyday life.
Women鈥檚 bunads from Setesdal also stand out for their bold colours and strong contrasts, reflecting the valley鈥檚 enduring cultural identity.
Tr酶ndelag Bunad
The Tr酶nderbunad was developed in the early 20th century as an attempt to create a shared regional identity for central Norway.
Inspired by 18th-century Rococo fashion, it stands out for its elegant cut and refined style. It is available in several colour variations, most commonly blue, green, and red.
While relatively modern compared to some other bunads, it has become firmly established across the region.
Bunad from Gudbrandsdalen
Gudbrandsdalen has a particularly rich and varied bunad tradition, with several distinct styles found along the length of the valley.
These bunads often feature detailed embroidery, patterned fabrics, and intricate silverwork. The region鈥檚 long agricultural history helped preserve strong local traditions, which are still clearly visible in the designs today.
It鈥檚 one of the best examples of how bunads can vary even within a relatively small geographic area.
Bunad from Sunnm酶re
The Sunnm酶re bunad is known for its elegance and relatively restrained colour palette.
Often featuring deep blues or blacks with fine embroidery, it reflects the coastal culture of western Norway. While less bold than some inland designs, its subtle detailing gives it a distinctive character.
Hallingdal Bunad
Known for its bold embroidery and strong colour contrasts, the Hallingdal bunad is one of the more visually striking designs.
The contrast between dark fabrics and vivid decorative elements gives it a distinctive appearance. Traditionally, it is worn without a belt, although one can be added if desired.
Bunad from Oslo
The bunad from Oslo is a reminder that not all bunads are rooted in long-standing rural traditions.
As a relatively modern design, it draws on historical elements from eastern Norway while reflecting the capital鈥檚 more urban identity. Typically available in darker tones such as blue or black, it has a more understated and refined appearance.
It is a popular choice for those with a connection to the Oslo region or those seeking a simpler aesthetic.
Bunad from Rogaland
Rogaland鈥檚 bunads are characterised by strong contrasts and richly detailed embroidery.
Many designs feature dark base fabrics combined with colourful floral patterns, with aprons and shawls playing an important role in the overall composition.
The region鈥檚 history of trade and cultural exchange is reflected in the variety and richness of its designs.
Bunad from Svalbard
One of the newest additions to Norway鈥檚 bunad landscape, the highlights how the tradition continues to evolve.
Inspired by Arctic life, it incorporates motifs such as glaciers, local flora, and the unique environment of the islands. There is even a local expectation that you should have lived on Svalbard through all four seasons to wear it.
It鈥檚 a striking example of how bunad remains a living, developing tradition rather than something fixed in the past.
Bunad and UNESCO Recognition
In 2024, Norway鈥檚 bunad tradition when it was inscribed on UNESCO鈥檚 list of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
This recognition highlights that bunad is not just about clothing, but about knowledge, craftsmanship, and cultural identity passed down through generations.
It also reflects the living nature of the tradition, as bunads continue to evolve while remaining rooted in history.
Bunad vs Festdrakt
In recent years, another term has become more common: festdrakt.
Festdrakt is inspired by traditional Norwegian clothing but is not tied to a specific region. It offers more flexibility in design, colour, and interpretation.
For many people, festdrakt provides a more accessible alternative to bunad, particularly given the cost and expectations associated with traditional designs.
A Living Tradition
Perhaps the most important thing to understand about the bunad is that it is not a museum piece. It is a living tradition.
New designs continue to emerge, including modern interpretations and even regional styles from places like Svalbard. At the same time, traditional craftsmanship remains highly valued, and many bunads are still made using techniques passed down through generations.
Whether worn to celebrate heritage, mark a life event, or simply feel connected to Norway, the bunad remains one of the most powerful symbols of Norwegian identity.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Since this article was first published, we鈥檝e received a huge number of questions about the bunad. So, here鈥檚 the answers to the most common queries.
Do all Norwegians own a bunad?
No, not at all. While bunads are very visible, especially on Norwegian Constitution Day, ownership is far from universal. It鈥檚 estimated that around 70% of Norwegian women and roughly 20% of men own a bunad.
Cost is the biggest factor. A full bunad outfit represents a significant financial investment, and not everyone chooses to prioritise that.
On national day and other celebrations, you鈥檒l see a mix of bunads, suits, dresses, and festdrakt. The important thing is participating in the celebration, not what you wear.
Can foreigners wear a bunad?
There鈥檚 no law or official rule that says foreigners cannot wear a bunad. However, bunads are strongly tied to identity, heritage, and belonging. Traditionally, people choose a bunad based on their family roots or a place they have lived.
Because of that, many Norwegians feel that wearing a bunad without a personal connection can feel a little out of place. That said, attitudes are changing, and it鈥檚 not uncommon to see people choose a bunad simply because they love the design or feel a connection to Norway.
If you want to take part in the tradition without navigating those expectations, a festdrakt is often recommended as a more flexible and culturally comfortable option.
Why is a bunad so expensive?
The short answer is craftsmanship. A bunad is not mass-produced clothing. It is typically made using high-quality wool fabrics, linen, and detailed embroidery. Many elements are still done by hand, particularly in higher-end versions.
On top of that, the silver jewellery can be a major cost. Pieces are often handcrafted and can be added over time, sometimes becoming family heirlooms.
You are also paying for tailoring. A bunad is usually made or adjusted to fit the individual, which adds to both comfort and longevity.
In a world dominated by fast fashion, the bunad represents the opposite: slow, skilled, and designed to last for decades.
How long does a bunad last?
A well-made bunad is designed to last a lifetime, and often much longer.
It鈥檚 very common for bunads to be passed down through families, particularly between generations. Adjustments can be made to accommodate changes in size, and many bunads are altered several times over the years.
With proper care, including careful storage and occasional maintenance, a bunad can remain in excellent condition for decades.
When do you typically buy a bunad?
Many Norwegians receive or buy their bunad for a major life event.
The most common occasion is confirmation, which usually takes place in the teenage years. For many families, this marks the transition into adulthood, making it a meaningful moment to invest in a bunad.
Others may purchase one later in life, particularly if they develop a stronger sense of connection to a region or want one for weddings and formal celebrations.
Can you wear a bunad outside Norway?
Yes, and many people do. Norwegians living abroad often wear their bunad for celebrations, particularly on Norwegian Constitution Day. It鈥檚 a powerful way to maintain a connection to home and identity.
You may also see bunads at international events, cultural festivals, or even weddings held outside Norway.
Are there rules about how to wear a bunad?
There are traditions rather than strict rules. For example, certain ways of wearing a bunad, including how jewellery is arranged or how headwear is used, are tied to regional customs. In some cases, details like head coverings historically indicated marital status.
That said, modern usage is more flexible. While some people are very particular about tradition, others take a more relaxed approach.
The so-called 鈥渂unad police鈥� reflects this tension, but for most people, the goal is simply to wear the bunad with respect and pride.
What is the 鈥渂unad police鈥�?
The term 鈥渂unad police鈥� is often used humorously, but it has some basis in reality.
It refers to people who are particularly concerned with how bunads are worn, including whether the correct regional style is chosen, whether accessories are authentic, and whether traditions are followed properly.
There are also organisations and advocates who focus on preserving craftsmanship and promoting Norwegian-made bunads, especially in response to cheaper imported versions.
In everyday life, most Norwegians don鈥檛 take this too seriously, but it remains part of the cultural conversation.
Can you mix and match parts of a bunad?
Traditionally, no. A bunad is intended to be a complete outfit from a specific region, with all elements designed to work together. Mixing parts from different bunads would generally be seen as incorrect.
However, some flexibility exists today, especially with accessories. For example, jewellery may be added gradually over time, and some people personalise elements within the boundaries of their chosen bunad.
How do you choose the right bunad?
For many people, the choice is guided by family history. If your parents or grandparents come from a particular region, that often determines your bunad. Others choose based on where they grew up or feel a strong connection.
There is no single 鈥渞ight鈥� answer, but understanding the background of your chosen bunad adds depth and meaning to wearing it.
What is included in a full bunad outfit?
A complete bunad typically includes several elements, and not all are always included in the base price.
For women, this often includes the dress, shirt, apron, shawl, shoes, bag, and silver jewellery. Headwear may also be included depending on the region.
For men, a bunad usually consists of a jacket, vest, trousers, shirt, stockings, shoes, and sometimes a hat, along with silver buttons or accessories.
Many people build their bunad over time, starting with the core garments and adding accessories later.
Are bunads still being designed today?
Yes, the tradition is still evolving.
While many bunads are based on historical designs, new interpretations continue to emerge. Some are based on newly discovered historical sources, while others reflect modern craftsmanship within traditional frameworks.
One of the most interesting examples is the development of a bunad for Svalbard, incorporating local symbols and identity. This ongoing evolution is part of what keeps the bunad tradition alive.
Is it worth buying a bunad?
That depends entirely on your connection to Norway and how you plan to use it.
For many Norwegians, a bunad is one of the most meaningful items they own. It represents family, heritage, and important life moments. For others, especially visitors, it may not make sense given the cost and cultural context.
But whether you own one or simply admire them, the bunad remains one of the most fascinating and enduring aspects of Norwegian culture.
If you鈥檝e visited Norway on Norwegian Constitution Day, you鈥檝e likely seen the bunad in all its glory. But behind the colour and craftsmanship lies something deeper: a story of identity, tradition, and a country still connected to its past.
And to add; we are all wishing to have one if we dont 馃榿 next best is a folk costume lookalike…
These are party/wedding bunads. There is another kind that you CAN make yourself if you have any kind of sewing skills – it is called ‘hverdagsbunad’ or everyday [work] bunad. It is made of cotton in checkered material in the skirt, the top is usually one color, sometimes it in one piece fastened by the shoulder straps. And most importantly, a big ‘forkle’ or apron.
Let me know if you want to know more about this subject. I could dig out mine and send you a picture.
Hello, I want to know more. I am trying to make a bunad but I am having a problem fitting the bodice. Could you please email me? [email protected]
What is the Bunad of Tonsberg area? Thank you.
There are at least four different types that are called Vestfoldbunad. One is called Vestfoldbunad 1932 and is black or blue with a white a white shirt and a woven belt. Another is called Vestfoldbunad 1956. It is more colourful that the 1932 model with a red bodice and black or blue skirt. You may even have a white, embroidered apron. The belt is woven, or leather with silver “st酶ler” on it. There is even an embroidered Vestfoldbunad which is called “den broderte vestfoldbunaden”. The last model is called “Tranum R酶er”. It is very nice but not as widely used as the other three models. You can google all these models and find nice photos.
Hi, Linda,
Are you related to Linda Thorsen who lived in the community of Woodlawn in New York City in the 1950’s? I was in her class in school and would love to talk with her again. My email address is [email protected].
Sincerely,
Pat Shopland
I received the most marvelous gift from my beloved, his mother’s Hardanger bunad
from when she was a young woman….. It is my absolute treasure, and his sister
crafted the beaded vest, and belt……. Gorgeous, and I consider it an honor
to have received this.
Wow! That is special! My mother (from Stavanger) left her bunad behind when she came to the U.S. Years later she asked family back home to send it to her but somehow it was lost. What I wouldn’t give to have it, now that’s she’s passed away.
Very sad! If you go to Google and search for Rogalandsbunad you’ll find lots of photos. You can buy them- The cost would come up around 25000 Norwegian Kroner (US$3000) with should include the silver embellishment. – start saving!
It is possible to buy used bunads as well馃槉 Search Finn.no
Much cheaper.
And to correct the authers mistake, ther is only one specialist store that owns the original bunadsdesigns and that is Husfliden. They make quality! All others are fake. You can have them make it entirely for you or you can do what some families do, buy the original fabric there ( precut fabric) and have someone else do the sewing and embroidering.
Girls tha get confirmated often get a bunad as a gift for their confirmation
Thats why its sewn so it can be refit later on in life.
Not all of this is exactly correct, but the spirit of it is right.
T酶nsberg is in Vestfold so it would be the Vestfold Bunad.
What an interesting essay and pictures. I do not have a bunad but do have a small silver pin, with silver discs that perhaps incorrectly we call the “wedding broach”. My daughter Kathy brought it back from Norway when she was an exchange teen through the Sins of Norway in 1975. I treasure it.
I’m guessing that’s meant to be “Sons of Norway” although “Sins of Norway” sounds appealing too!
I finally was able to purchase a bunad from Voss, where my great grandparents were from. I had been looking for TEN years. It is in fabulous condition, with the appropriate jewelry and a gorgeous silver belt. I only wish my Grandma was still alive to see it!!!
I would be interested in how you located a traditional made bunad. Thank you!
My Mama gave me her bunad before she passed away in 2010. She bought all the material and made her bunad by herself. The embroidery work is beautiful. Her family, fathers side, is from Egedall so she made it for that area of Norway. Again, it is gorgeous and she was very proud of it. I am so proud of it too. She made the hat and purse and along with her seulas it is complete! Thank you. Some of my spelling is incorrect.
My mama traveled to Norway four times and bought the material for her bunad there. I meant to write that in my comment above. Thanks, Irma Weaver.
My mother in law Signe Eriksen, was one of the group of Oslo women chosen to design a bunad for Oslo. As a city there was, at the time, no traditional bunad. The gorgeous blue dress with Signe’s wildflower embroidery is now the official Oslo bunad. Her own dress came to me when she died. Unfortunately it had been in her attic and was damaged bt moths. I took it and had pillows made of the material. I would love to know more of the story of how the dress was designed and the other women in the group.
That’s so cool! I recently found out that I have family from there and I’m trying to learn more about it; the Oslobunaden are so beautiful!
My great-grandparents emigrated from Skotselv. What bunad would be traditional for this area? Thank you?
It would probably be Nedre (“Lower”) Buskerud
My maternal Grandmother’s mother was from H酶nefuss in Buskerud, and her father from Nord Aurdal in Valdres. My maternal grandfather’s parents were from Nor-Odal, just north-east of Oslo .Which would be the most expected District I choose the bunad from ?
I saw your post and had to tell you, I met my third cousin that lives in Honefoss! I also went to Sokna, then to my Grandfathers home in Hen! My Bunad is actually from Lillehammer..Ha en fin dag馃槑
I wonder if we are related, my Mother lived in Hen, most of the family is still in Honefoss and my Father and his parents came fron Sokna. I was born in Kongsberg. I have a Hardangef bunad, parts from Norway and my mother made the skirt for me.
My grandmother came to Vancouver Canada at the turn of the century, with her traditional dress from Sweden. When she passed away my mother passed her mother’s dress to me, the first born grand daughter. The dress includes her beautiful red and black handwoven twill floor length skirt and matching apron with long handwoven ties, handmade lined black broadcloth vest, silver pin and beautiful fine woolen floral fringe shawl. I am honored to be the caretaker of her dress for our family. Her family name was Boberg. They had a lumber mill on the edge of the North Sea, in the community of the now Skaftung Finland. Her niece Harriet and family still live there and care for the land there.
My Bestemor returned to Bergen in 1959 for her sisters golden anniversary. The family surprised her with a family made Hardanger bunad for me at, age 7. I wore it proudly ,marching in the 17th of Mai parade in Brooklyn ,NY as a child. It was made for a woman of 5’7″ ,however I grew into a 6′ woman, long waisted and it no longer fits. I also have a “Everyday bunad” which also no longer fits.I would love to have either on to proudly wear. Are there and patterns for long waisted women?
My family came from Torpa, in Land. It is west of Lillehammer, across the Mj酶sa and in the valley. Does anyone know what style of bund comes from that area?
The Gudbrandsdalsbunad is a pretty safe bet. It comes in black and blue. Or there is the Axel Waldemar bunad, which comes in green as well. Both are embroidered and very pretty.
I’d recommend that you email the Husfliden shop closest to Torpa and ask what they say. There is one in Lillehammer and they should be able to advise you. Although this post mentions norskebunader.no I wouldn’t go to them. They are one of the manufacturers who outsource their production outside Norway, and you can tell by the quality. They also mostly do the “popular” versions of the bunads (and not all the bunads either), so they won’t have the local knowledge that Husfliden (norskflid.no) do.
On that side of Mj酶sa it could be Hadelandsbunad.
It’s never been very popular, maybe because it isn’t as lavishly embroidered as many of the other bunads from the area.
My family in Namsos wear beautiful Tr酶ndelag bunader! Whilst not Norwegian as such I’m surprised there is no mention whatsoever of the S谩mi g谩kti/kofte worn by the S谩mi minority in the north and the South S谩mi of Sn氓sa…
Sad that the bunad article did not feature the Hallingdal Bunad, the most unique of all the bunads. It was designed without any kind of belt, although a belt could be worn as an accessory. Because of this, once a bunad is made (expensive ) it is easy to gain weight and not have it be noticed ! (nudge, nudge, wink, wink ! Think about it)
Can you show an example or where I can find picture of dress for Etne?
What is the proper bunad for Akershus? Please & thank you.
Depends, Which area of Akershus? There are several bunads for various locations in Akershus. They include Romeriksbunad, Hurdalsbunad, Eidsvollsbunad, Follobunad, B忙rumsbunad, Askerbunad, and S酶rkedalsbunad. There’s probably some more as well.
Ah ha. The best dress ever. 馃挴% red and white one looks the best.
These look absolutely beautiful. Is there anything that Scandinavians don鈥檛 do with style?
I have a bunad dress that was my grandmothers in Norway. Hand made and embroidered and at least 80 years old. Does anyone know who could appraise its value and how I might sell it in Norway?
First step is to work out which bunad it is. Do you know where your grandmother was from? Have a look on , You can also do a Google search. Which colour is it, it’s embroidered, does it have an apron, etc. Alternatively you can email norskflid.no with an image and they’ll normally reply. They are very helpful. Value will depend on which bunad it is, if it’s complete, if it has all the silver jewellery, etc.
I have a book published in 1928 – The Fjords and Folk of Norway by Samuel J. Beckett. The first photo is of “a married woman of Hardanger” .. she is wearing a white dress not a black dress as in your photo and a very unusual looking hat .. is this a variation?
It could either be a regular white wedding dress (which is what my great aunt wore) or it could be a white Hardanger bunad. Some of the bunads from certain regions are made in a white variation specifically worn for weddings.
My great-grandparents emigrated from Skotselv at the turn of the last century. What bunad would be from this area? Thank you!
I would like a used Norplant Benadryl price? Also have a hard anger bund that is over one hundred years
I am trying to determine my appropriate bunad: my father’s family emigrated from a farm near Fresvik, in Vik, where Sognefjorden and Aurlandsfjorden meet, in the late 1800’s. Would that be more Akershus, Buskerud, or 脴stfold bunad?
None of those. Fresvik is in the former county of Sogn og Fjordane. I would guess the “Indre Sogn” variety would be most appropriate for there, but someone from the area would need to confirm that.
I have a Hallingdal Bunad, over 100 years old. I first wore it in 1974 after my Mother-in-law finished the embroidery on it.
A few years ago I made my own Hardangar Bunad. I beaded the bib and made the beaded belt on a loom. I just love them both. I bought the Solje and shirt in Norway. I really enjoyed shopping at Husefliden.
My great and great great grandparents met in America and came from all over Norway. My mormor told us so many stories about her father and his family from Fagernes that I have always felt a strong connection to the farm that he and his sisters left to their baby brother…the only one to remain in Norway. I have only visited once and hope to go again. I love the black bunad with the crisp white blouse and would love to rent one for a few hours for pictures. When we prepared my parents home for sale, I could not find her hversdagbunad anywhere. Alas. Mange Takk
Hi, my family came from Oppland (Brandbu, Gran). Oppland and Hedmark are now Innlandet (as of 2020). What style of bunad is appropriate? Does anyone know of a local business that can assist with this style of bunad?
Thank you,
Hi Tiffany
From that area I recommend “Hadelandsbunad” or “Festdrakt” from Hadeland.
Grinakervev in Brandbu make great costumes.
My grandfather’s last name was Lyse and he was born in Stavanger. How would I go about finding the patterns on the bunads from that area? I’d like to cross stitch some of them for myself.
My Mother gave me her Bunad. I won’t fit into it. What do I do with it? I know my Aunt made it for her & my family was from Stavanger/Bergen.
If you visit Norway and want to buy a Bunad, is it hard to find a Bunad shop?
My grandfathers family is from and still lives on Hoidahl/Hoydal farm in historic Tune area. My grandmother’s Hovel family is from Utne farm area.
What would be our bunad and rosemaling? Any special recommendations for weddings, or daily wear or for fun wear at parties or festivals?
My family is from Brandbu and I would love to find a piece of silver jewelry or shawl from that area – or even a pattern to embroider.
Who can I write to, to learn about the bunad or folkedrackt of Ostfold or more specifically Tistedalen, I believe it may have been called Frederickshald. Can anyone please help me? Tusen takk.
My family is from Roros, what is the name of the proper bunad from there?
Can someone help me with the instructions on the Nordlandbunad? The instructions are in Norwegian and I used a translator software, but have some questions about questionable language
Hi! I would like to sew the bunad on my own in Austria. But, the most difficult thing is, to know, which kind of material I have to use. Do you have got an hint, which kind of wool I have to choose? There are differnt measuerments of weight, but which one is the right?
Many thanks in advance!
Best regards,
jasmina
We noticed on Constitution Day, 2025 in Tellemark that many of the men wearing bunads also had small cased knifes strapped to their belted trousers. What is the origin of that “accessory “?