Kleren

Kleren is the Dutch word for clothes or garments. It is a plural noun referring to items worn on the body, such as shirts, trousers, jackets, dresses, and underwear. In everyday language, kleren denotes tangible items you own or wear, whereas the related term kleding is a general, mass noun meaning clothing as a category, often used in formal or abstract contexts. For example, Ik pak mijn kleren means I’m grabbing my clothes.

A common proverb is "Kleren maken de man" (clothes make the man), which expresses how appearance can influence perception.

Etymology and related terms: Kleren comes from the Dutch verb kleden (to dress) and is related to other Germanic terms for clothing, such as German Kleidung and English clothes.

Usage and care: Clothing encompasses a wide range of fabrics, including natural fibers like katoen (cotton), wol (wool), linnen (linen), and zijde (silk), as well as synthetics. Care varies by material but typically includes washing, drying, ironing, and proper storage.

Cultural and historical notes: The Netherlands has a long textile tradition, with a modern fashion industry and active second-hand markets. Clothing styles reflect climate, season, and cultural norms, and trends can vary by region and era.

In summary, kleren refers to the tangible garments people wear, while kleding serves as a broader term for clothing as a concept.