Netherlands Flag: Why Orange Became Red, History & Facts
Explore the Dutch red-white-blue flag, the older orange-white-blue Prince’s Flag, why orange gradually became red, the 1937 color decree and the royal orange pennant.
What does the Netherlands flag look like?
The Dutch national flag consists of three equal horizontal stripes: red on top, white in the middle and blue on the bottom.
A 1937 Royal Decree formally described the colors as bright vermilion red, bright white and cobalt blue.
Why did orange become red?
The Royal House states that the earliest documented Dutch flag from 1572 used orange, white and blue. During the seventeenth century, orange gradually gave way to red.
A traditional explanation says orange was harder to distinguish at sea, but the Royal House presents this as a story rather than a definitive historical conclusion. The red-white-blue version eventually became dominant.
How old is the Dutch flag?
Dutch tricolour traditions date back to the revolt against Spanish rule in the sixteenth century. The orange-white-blue flag was associated with William of Orange, while the red-white-blue arrangement became increasingly common in the seventeenth century.
After periods of French influence and political change, the red-white-blue tricolour returned as the preferred national flag. Queen Wilhelmina’s 1937 decree settled the official colors.
Why is an orange pennant sometimes flown above it?
On King’s Day and certain birthdays of members of the Royal House, the Dutch flag is traditionally flown with an orange pennant above it.
The Royal House states that on other occasions the flag is normally flown without the orange pennant.
Can anyone fly the Dutch flag?
Yes. The Royal House notes that there are no general statutory rules restricting private use of the Dutch flag. Individuals may fly it throughout the year.
There are, however, established customs: a raised flag should not touch the ground or obstruct traffic, and if it remains up at night it is good practice to illuminate it.
Netherlands flag quick facts
| Colors | Red, white and blue |
|---|---|
| Official color wording | Bright vermilion, bright white, cobalt blue |
| Earliest documented tricolour | 1572 |
| Earlier colors | Orange, white and blue |
| Official color decree | 1937 |
| Royal celebration addition | Orange pennant |
Netherlands flag FAQ
Why is the Dutch flag red instead of orange?
Orange gradually gave way to red during the seventeenth century. The exact reason is not settled.
What is the Prince’s Flag?
The older orange-white-blue Dutch tricolour associated with William of Orange.
When were the modern colors officially fixed?
In 1937 by Royal Decree.
Why is there sometimes an orange pennant?
It is used on King’s Day and certain royal birthdays.
Can private citizens fly the Dutch flag?
Yes. The Netherlands has no general legal restriction preventing ordinary private display.
Royal House of the Netherlands — Dutch Flag
Royal House — Flag Instructions
