Little Dutch Size Guide
About Little Dutch Sizing
Little Dutch is a beloved Dutch brand specialising in high-quality children's clothing and accessories. Known for their charming aesthetic and practical design, Little Dutch offers comfortable, well-fitting garments for babies and young children. The brand emphasises quality fabrics, thoughtful construction, and designs that allow children room to move and play freely. Little Dutch garments are typically cut with slightly generous proportions to accommodate active play and growth, making sizing true to age-based European standards.
Little Dutch primarily operates using European sizing standards (measured in centimetres), which correspond to age ranges rather than arbitrary size numbers. This approach ensures parents can easily select appropriate clothing for their child's developmental stage. The brand’s fit is generally relaxed and comfortable rather than snug, reflecting Scandinavian design philosophy that prioritises practicality and freedom of movement.
How to Measure Your Child
Accurate measurement is essential for finding the perfect fit in Little Dutch clothing. Follow these steps to measure your child at home:
- Height: Have your child stand barefoot against a wall with heels touching the wall. Use a spirit level or flat object to mark the top of their head on the wall, then measure from floor to mark in centimetres. This is the primary measurement for Little Dutch sizing.
- Chest: Ask your child to stand with arms relaxed at their sides. Measure around the fullest part of the chest (usually at nipple level) with the tape measure held snugly but not tight. Keep the tape parallel to the ground.
- Waist: Measure around the natural waistline (usually at belly button level) with the tape measure comfortably fitted but not compressed. This helps ensure good fit for trousers and bottoms.
- Hips: Measure around the fullest part of the hips and bottom. Stand naturally and keep the tape measure parallel to the ground. This measurement is important for skirts and dresses.
- Sleeve Length: Measure from the centre back neck, across the shoulder, and down the arm to the wrist with arms slightly bent. Alternatively, measure from the inside shoulder seam to the wrist.
- Timing Matters: Measure your child in the afternoon or evening when natural swelling from activity is at its peak. Avoid measuring immediately after waking or after strenuous activity.
- Both Sides: Children’s bodies are not always symmetrical. Measure both sides and use the larger measurements when sizing.
- Allow for Growth: Leave approximately 2–5 centimetres of extra room in length for growth, depending on the season and how quickly your child is growing. Little Dutch clothing should never be tight.
Little Dutch Children's Clothing Size Chart
Little Dutch uses European height-based sizing standards. Find your child’s height in centimetres to determine the appropriate size. The following chart correlates height ranges with age estimates and corresponding measurements:
| Size Label | Height Range (cm) | Approximate Age | Chest (cm) | Waist (cm) | Hips (cm) | UK Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50 | 44–50 | Newborn | 44–46 | 43–45 | 44–46 | Newborn |
| 56 | 51–56 | 0–2 months | 48–50 | 46–48 | 48–50 | 0–3 months |
| 62 | 57–62 | 2–4 months | 50–52 | 48–50 | 50–52 | 0–3 months |
| 68 | 63–68 | 4–6 months | 52–54 | 50–52 | 52–54 | 3–6 months |
| 74 | 69–74 | 6–9 months | 54–56 | 52–54 | 54–56 | 6–9 months |
| 80 | 75–80 | 9–12 months | 56–58 | 54–56 | 56–58 | 9–12 months |
| 86 | 81–86 | 12–18 months | 58–60 | 56–58 | 58–60 | 12–18 months |
| 92 | 87–92 | 18–24 months | 60–62 | 58–60 | 60–62 | 18–24 months |
| 98 | 93–98 | 2–3 years | 62–64 | 60–62 | 62–64 | 2–3 years |
| 104 | 99–104 | 3–4 years | 64–66 | 62–64 | 64–66 | 3–4 years |
| 110 | 105–110 | 4–5 years | 66–68 | 64–66 | 66–68 | 4–5 years |
| 116 | 111–116 | 5–6 years | 68–70 | 66–68 | 68–70 | 5–6 years |
| 122 | 117–122 | 6–7 years | 70–72 | 68–70 | 70–72 | 6–7 years |
| 128 | 123–128 | 7–8 years | 72–74 | 70–72 | 72–74 | 7–8 years |
Baby Footwear Size Chart
Little Dutch baby shoes are sized using UK infant sizing. Measure your baby’s foot length in centimetres to ensure proper fit. Always allow 0.5–1 centimetre of growth space in baby shoes.
| UK Size | US Size | EU Size | Foot Length (cm) | Approximate Age |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 3 | 18 | 10.1 | Newborn–2 months |
| 2.5 | 3.5 | 18 | 10.5 | 1–3 months |
| 3 | 4 | 19 | 10.9 | 2–4 months |
| 3.5 | 4.5 | 20 | 11.3 | 3–5 months |
| 4 | 5 | 20 | 11.7 | 4–6 months |
| 4.5 | 5.5 | 21 | 12.2 | 5–7 months |
| 5 | 6 | 22 | 12.6 | 6–8 months |
| 5.5 | 6.5 | 22 | 13.0 | 7–9 months |
| 6 | 7 | 23 | 13.4 | 8–10 months |
| 6.5 | 7.5 | 24 | 13.8 | 9–12 months |
| 7 | 8 | 24 | 14.2 | 12–15 months |
| 7.5 | 8.5 | 25 | 14.7 | 15–18 months |
| 8 | 9 | 25 | 15.1 | 18–24 months |
Children’s Footwear Size Chart (Walking & Play Shoes)
For toddlers and young children learning to walk and play outdoors, Little Dutch offers junior shoe sizes. These continue from infant sizing and accommodate growing, active feet:
| UK Size | US Size | EU Size | Foot Length (cm) | Approximate Age |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8.5 | 9.5 | 26 | 15.5 | 20–24 months |
| 9 | 10 | 27 | 15.9 | 2–2.5 years |
| 9.5 | 10.5 | 27 | 16.4 | 2.5–3 years |
| 10 | 11 | 28 | 16.8 | 3–3.5 years |
| 10.5 | 11.5 | 29 | 17.2 | 3.5–4 years |
| 11 | 11.5 | 29 | 17.2 | 4–4.5 years |
| 11.5 | 12.5 | 30 | 18.1 | 4.5–5 years |
| 12 | 13 | 31 | 18.5 | 5–5.5 years |
| 12.5 | 13.5 | 31 | 18.9 | 5.5–6 years |
| 13 | 1 | 32 | 19.3 | 6–6.5 years |
Little Dutch Accessories & Special Items
Hat & Head Sizing
Little Dutch hats, caps, and bonnets are typically sized by age range rather than circumference. When ordering, match your child’s age to the size label. If your child has an unusually large or small head for their age, measure head circumference in centimetres and add 1–2 centimetres for comfort:
| Size | Age Range | Head Circumference (cm) |
|---|---|---|
| 0–6 months | Newborn to 6 months | 35–39 |
| 6–12 months | 6 to 12 months | 39–43 |
| 1–2 years | 12 to 24 months | 43–47 |
| 2–4 years | 2 to 4 years | 47–51 |
| 4–6 years | 4 to 6 years | 51–55 |
Mittens & Gloves
Little Dutch mittens and gloves are sized by age range. Young children’s hands grow rapidly, so ordering slightly larger gloves ensures they will not be outgrown immediately. Look for adjustable cuffs or stretchy materials for the best fit across age ranges.
Socks & Tights
Little Dutch socks and tights typically come in age-range sizing (0–6 months, 6–12 months, 12–24 months, 2–4 years, etc.). Because sock fit is less critical than clothing fit, sizing is generous to accommodate growth. If your child is between sizes, choose the larger option for longer wear.
Understanding European Sizing vs. UK/US Sizing
Little Dutch uses the European (metric) sizing system, which differs significantly from UK and US sizing:
- Height-Based Sizing: European brands like Little Dutch base children’s sizing on height in centimetres, rather than age in months or years. This is more accurate because children grow at different rates.
- Relaxed Fit: European children’s clothing typically allows more room for movement and growth than UK or US equivalents. A Little Dutch size 92 may correspond to a UK size 2–3 years, but will fit more generously.
- No Size Numbers in Names: Rather than XS, S, M, L, Little Dutch uses height measurements (50, 56, 62, etc.) or simple age ranges. This removes confusion and makes sizing universal across gender.
- Seam Allowances: Little Dutch garments often include generous seams that can be let out as children grow, extending the lifespan of each piece.
Sizing Tips for Little Dutch Clothing & Footwear
- Height is Key: Little Dutch sizing is primarily based on height in centimetres. Measure your child’s height barefoot against a wall before ordering. Height is a more reliable indicator of fit than age, as children develop at different rates.
- Allow for Growth: Little Dutch clothing is intentionally cut with generous proportions to allow for growth and active play. Plan to add 2–5 centimetres to your child’s current height to ensure the garment will fit for an entire season without becoming too snug.
- Layer-Friendly Design: Many Little Dutch pieces are designed to be layered beneath coats or worn over long-sleeved undershirts. When sizing outerwear and dresses, account for the thickness of layers your child will wear underneath, particularly during colder months.
- Foot Length for Shoes: Measure foot length in centimetres rather than relying on age estimates for shoe sizing. Have your child stand barefoot on a piece of paper, mark the longest toe and heel, then measure the distance. Always add 0.5–1 centimetre of growth space in baby shoes, and 1–1.5 centimetres for walking shoes.
- Sleeve Length Matters: Little Dutch long-sleeved tops and dresses should end at the wrist bone with a slight bend in the arm. Measure sleeve length from the centre back neck, over the shoulder, to the wrist. Sleeves that are too short will restrict movement; those too long will bunch or drag.
- Nappy Changes & Diaper Access: For babies still in nappies, ensure that bodysuits and rompers are not too tight around the waist and hip. Little Dutch designs often feature practical poppers and openings to simplify nappy changes without removing the entire garment.
- Check Armhole Depth: Ensure armholes are not too tight, as this restricts arm movement and can create discomfort during play. There should be approximately 1 centimetre of space between the child’s armpit and the armhole seam.
- Weight Distribution: Whilst height is the primary sizing measure, very heavy or very lean children within the same height range may need different fits. If your child is significantly heavier or lighter than average, consider measuring chest and waist circumferences and consulting Little Dutch customer service for personalised guidance.
- Seasonal Adjustments: Order sizes for seasonal wear with growth in mind. For winter clothing purchased in autumn, add slightly more growth allowance (4–5 centimetres) because children often experience growth spurts during winter months. For spring/summer items, a smaller allowance (2–3 centimetres) may be appropriate.
- Return & Exchange Options: Little Dutch recognises that sizing can be tricky, especially when shopping online. Always check the return and exchange policy before purchasing. Many retailers offer free returns for sizing issues, making it possible to try items and exchange if needed.
Specific Guidance for Popular Little Dutch Products
Rompers & Bodysuits
Little Dutch rompers and bodysuits should fit snugly without compression at the waist, hips, and thighs. They will stretch slightly with wear. Check that the nappy area (between legs) is not bunching, as this indicates the size is too small. If your baby is at the top end of a size range in terms of height, you may prefer to size up for rompers to ensure comfortable nappy fitting and prevent chafing.
Dresses & Skirts
Little Dutch dresses and skirts are characteristically knee-length or midi-length with relaxed, comfortable silhouettes. Measure inseam from hip to desired hem length (usually at the knee for young children). Length should allow room for growth; aim for approximately 5 centimetres of extra length that can be worn as the child grows before the garment becomes too short. Waistbands should sit comfortably with one finger fitting between the band and the child’s body.
Dungarees & Overalls
Dungarees are a Little Dutch staple. Ensure the inseam is correct so leg openings reach just above the ankle, allowing room for socks and shoes. The shoulder straps should be adjustable to accommodate growth. Straps that are too tight restrict shoulder movement and cause discomfort; those too loose will slip. Waist should be comfortably loose with approximately 2 centimetres of give.
Cardigans & Jumpers
Cardigans and jumpers should be roomy enough to layer over bodysuits or t-shirts. Sleeves should reach to the wrist bone; Little Dutch typically makes sleeves generous but not excessively long. Body length should be hip-length or slightly longer. If between sizes, choose the smaller size for jumpers (which don’t need as much layering room) and the larger size for cardigans (which should accommodate thicker clothing underneath).
Outdoor Jackets & Coats
Winter jackets and outdoor coats should be sized to accommodate warm layers underneath. Measure around the chest and back with your child wearing their typical winter base layers, then add 5–7 centimetres of ease for comfortable movement. Sleeves should end at the w
Sizing Information
General Fit
Little Dutch sizing tends to follow standard UK sizing. However, we recommend checking the specific size chart for each item.
Fit Recommendations
- Check product-specific size charts when available
- Read customer reviews for fit feedback
- Consider the item type (slim fit, regular fit, etc.)
- When in doubt, contact customer service