Knowing how to name different pieces of clothing in German can be incredibly useful, whether you’re shopping, packing for a trip, or describing what someone is wearing. This vocabulary topic is essential for day-to-day conversations and real-life interactions in German-speaking countries.
Learn Clothing Vocabulary in German
This lesson introduces key German vocabulary related to clothing. Words are grouped into logical categories such as everyday wear, footwear, accessories, seasonal clothing, and undergarments. Each term is paired with its English equivalent and accompanied by native audio pronunciation to support both visual and auditory learners.
What You’ll Find on This Page
The vocabulary is structured into clear, easy-to-navigate tables:
- Everyday Clothing – Common items like shirts, trousers, dresses
- Footwear – From shoes and boots to sandals
- Accessories – Including belts, hats, scarves, and jewelry
- Undergarments and Sleepwear – Essential innerwear and nightwear
- Seasonal and Outdoor Wear – Jackets, coats, rainwear, and more
Each vocabulary table is designed for practical use, whether you’re preparing for a trip, improving your speaking skills, or studying for an exam. Scroll down to explore the full set of vocabulary tables. Click on each audio icon to hear the word pronounced by a native German speaker. With regular practice, you’ll quickly master clothing vocabulary in German.
Everyday Clothing
| English | German with pronunciation volume_down |
|---|---|
| Shirt | Hemd |
| T-shirt | T-Shirt |
| Blouse | Bluse |
| Sweater / Jumper | Pullover |
| Jacket | Jacke |
| Coat | Mantel |
| Pants / Trousers | Hose |
| Jeans | Jeans |
| Shorts | Shorts |
| Skirt | Rock |
| Dress | Kleid |
Footwear
| English | German with pronunciation volume_down |
|---|---|
| Shoes | Schuhe |
| Boots | Stiefel |
| Sneakers | Turnschuhe |
| Sandals | Sandalen |
| Slippers | Hausschuhe |
| High heels | High Heels |
Accessories
| English | German with pronunciation volume_down |
|---|---|
| Hat | Hut |
| Cap | Kappe |
| Scarf | Schal |
| Gloves | Handschuhe |
| Belt | Gürtel |
| Sunglasses | Sonnenbrille |
| Watch | Armbanduhr |
| Earrings | Ohrringe |
| Necklace | Halskette |
Undergarments and Sleepwear
| English | German with pronunciation volume_down |
|---|---|
| Underwear | Unterwäsche |
| Bra | BH |
| Underpants | Unterhose |
| Socks | Socken |
| Pajamas / Pyjamas | Schlafanzug |
| Bathrobe | Bademantel |
Seasonal and Outerwear
| English | German with pronunciation volume_down |
|---|---|
| Raincoat | Regenmantel |
| Winter jacket | Winterjacke |
| Hoodie | Kapuzenpullover |
| Beanie / Wool hat | Mütze |
| Mittens | Fäustlinge |
| Thermal underwear | Thermounterwäsche |
| Swimsuit | Badeanzug |
How to Make the Most of This Lesson
- Study one category at a time – Begin with the basics and move on to less common items.
- Click on the audio – Each German word includes native pronunciation to help you speak clearly.
- Repeat regularly – Repetition strengthens long-term memory and confidence.
- Combine topics – Try using this vocabulary with colors, seasons, or weather to describe full outfits.
Expand Your Vocabulary
Once you’re comfortable with clothing terms, consider learning related vocabulary topics like colors, shopping, or seasons to speak about fashion and everyday life in more detail.