When learning Dutch, understanding the vocabulary related to clothing and fashion can be particularly useful, whether you’re shopping, discussing personal style, or simply trying to describe what someone is wearing. Here are some essential Dutch words for clothing and fashion, along with their definitions and example sentences to help you integrate them into your vocabulary.
Kleding
This is the Dutch word for “clothing.” It encompasses anything that can be worn, from formal attire to casual wear.
Ik koop vaak nieuwe kleding in de uitverkoop.
Broek
This word refers to “trousers” or “pants” in English. It is a staple in both men’s and women’s wardrobes.
Hij droeg een blauwe broek naar het werk.
Jurk
A “dress.” This item of clothing is typically worn by women and can vary from casual to formal.
Zij droeg een prachtige rode jurk naar het feest.
Rok
This translates to “skirt” in English. Skirts can be of varying lengths and styles, suitable for different occasions.
De rok die zij draagt is erg modieus dit seizoen.
Overhemd
In English, this is a “shirt,” generally referring to a garment with a collar and sleeves that is more formal than a T-shirt.
Hij koos een wit overhemd voor zijn sollicitatiegesprek.
T-shirt
Much like in English, a “T-shirt” is a casual top typically made of cotton and characterized by its T-shape.
Ik draag graag een comfortabel T-shirt in het weekend.
Trui
This word is used for a “sweater” or “jumper.” It’s a knitted garment intended to cover the upper body and provide warmth.
Het is koud buiten, dus ik draag mijn wollen trui.
Jas
This is the Dutch word for “coat” or “jacket.” It’s an outer garment worn outdoors to protect against the weather.
Vergeet niet je jas mee te nemen, het gaat regenen.
Schoenen
Translating to “shoes,” this term covers all styles of footwear.
Ik heb nieuwe schoenen gekocht voor de bruiloft.
Sokken
This word refers to “socks,” the knitted coverings for the feet usually worn under shoes.
Ik heb altijd extra sokken in mijn tas tijdens de winter.
Ondergoed
This term means “underwear.” It refers to garments worn beneath outer clothes, usually in direct contact with the skin.
Het is belangrijk om comfortabel ondergoed te dragen.
Das
Known as a “tie” in English, this is a strip of fabric worn around the collar and tied in the front to give a formal look.
Hij draagt altijd een das naar kantoor.
Sjaal
This translates to “scarf.” A scarf is a piece of fabric worn around the neck for warmth, sun protection, cleanliness, fashion, or religious reasons.
Zij draagt een sjaal om haar nek om warm te blijven.
Hoed
A “hat” in Dutch, this is an accessory worn on the head for various purposes, including protection against the elements, ceremonial reasons, safety, or as a fashion item.
Hij draagt een hoed om zich tegen de zon te beschermen.
Riem
This means “belt” in English. A belt is a flexible band or strap, typically made of leather or heavy cloth, and worn around the waist.
Je moet een riem dragen om je broek op te houden.
Handschoenen
Known as “gloves” in English, these are garments that cover the hands. Gloves can serve many purposes including protection and warmth.
Zij draagt handschoenen om haar handen warm te houden.
Laarzen
This translates to “boots.” Boots are a type of footwear that covers not only the feet but also part of the legs, sometimes extending up to the knee or even the thigh.
In de winter draag ik altijd laarzen.
Understanding these terms will not only expand your vocabulary but also enhance your ability to engage in conversations about everyday life and activities in Dutch. Whether you’re discussing what someone wore at an event, shopping for new clothes, or explaining what you like to wear, these words will be incredibly useful.
