Dutch Shopping Vocabulary: #1 Exclusive Guide

Dutch shopping vocabulary is a must while traveling to the Netherlands. The Dutch have perfected the art of simple, sophisticated, and comfortable fashion. Trench coats, layering, and neutral tones are all components of the Dutch style that elicits poise & confidence. 

I remember studying abroad in northwestern Europe and noticing how people dressed incredibly simply yet refined. The masculine silhouettes combined with intricate jewelry and accessories were something I’d never seen. Everyone looked so comfortable, yet so cool and well put-together. It was mesmerizing, and I bought into the culture immediately, as did all of my fellow classmates. 

If you visit the Netherlands, you will take one look around you and wish to imitate the cool street styles and Dutch culture. This article will guide you on your quest for that sophisticated fashion sense that you can’t get back home. 

Speaking Dutch while fashion-hunting is the best way to integrate yourself even further into the culture. People will notice your efforts, be appreciative, and perhaps give you tips for the best deals. 

Plus, practicing shopping vocabulary is a practical way to improve your language skills, as shopping is a common experience. In this lesson, we will also give vocabulary about supermarket shopping, as that is another everyday language topic! Okay, let’s begin!

‘Doe Marr Normaal’ – Just Act Natural

To begin our guide to Dutch shopping, we have to discuss the concept of ‘doe marr normaal’ (just act natural) in the Dutch style. Dutch culture is built around community and joining efforts to create a beneficial place for everyone to live. This famous phrase is also associated with Dutch fashion in terms of dressing in what feels natural to you. 

The Netherlands is an open-minded place, and people will not judge you for dressing how you wish; it is just that most Dutch people prefer to dress in a natural look. So remember the phrase ‘doe maar normaal’ while browsing the racks, and remember to dress in the most natural way!

Dutch Shopping Vocabulary And Phrases

You’ve already studied Dutch phrases for health & basic greetings, but now you want to learn fashion vocabulary! Not to fear, these five Dutch phrases will take you far on your hunt for the best shopping in the Netherlands. 

How Much Does It Cost? – Hoeveel Kost Het?

[Speechword voice=”Dutch Female” isinline]Hoeveel Kost Het?[/Speechword]

Undoubtedly the most important phrase to know while shopping, simply asking ‘hoeveel is het?’ is a fantastic way to interact with locals (and perhaps even get the local price!) 

What Size Is It? – Welke Maat Is Het?

[Speechword voice=”Dutch Female” isinline]Welke Maat Is Het?[/Speechword]

Sizing can be vastly different from country to country. Still, if you find a baseline for your sizing in the Netherlands, this phrase will be incredibly useful for you. 

Can I Try It On? – Kan Ik Het Even Aandoen?

[Speechword voice=”Dutch Female” isinline]Kan Ik Het Even Aandoen?[/Speechword]

Bust out this simple phrase to get to a dressing room and try on your top picks. It is nice to say a few words while trying to do a simple task and avoid language confusion. 

I’m Just Looking. – Ik Kijk Alleen Even.

[Speechword voice=”Dutch Female” isinline]Ik Kijk Alleen Even[/Speechword]

This is a polite way of saying, ‘please don’t bother me’ while taking a gander through a shop. 

Can We Have A Look Around? – Kunnen We Even Rond Kijken?

[Speechword voice=”Dutch Female” isinline]Kunnen We Even Rond Kijken?[/Speechword]

This phrase would be polite to say right when you walk into a shop, and it shows respect and helps you practice speaking in real time. 

More Useful Dutch Shopping Phrases

Here is a comprehensive list of phrases that will be helpful for your shopping adventures. 

Even MORE Dutch Fashion Vocabulary 

Here’s a quick-fire list of more Dutch words related to fashion. Let’s see how many you can remember! 

Dutch Supermarket Vocabulary

Shopping isn’t just about fashion … you need to shop for food too! Here is basic, useful Dutch supermarket vocabulary. 

Ready To Go Shopping?

Now that you know the necessary Dutch vocabulary and expressions, it’s time to explore on your own in the beautiful country of the Netherlands and find some good deals.

Be brave and use your Dutch skills in person – you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment afterward, showing a huge sign of respect and effort to the locals. 

If you want to learn more Dutch with a trusted partner, try out the Ling App. Learning Dutch can be difficult and frustrating, so Ling creates short, comprehensible lessons for languages that anyone can master with a bit of practice. For added retention, there are mini-quizzes and games for the user to play on repeat until fully learned.

Download Ling today from the App Store and Play Store and begin your journey to mastering Dutch!