Holland: Dutch women are growing to greater heights, challenging even the Scandinavians as the tallest in the world. With an average height of 176 – 180 cm, they tower over their English cousins who reach 172cm.

These record breaking figures come from workwear specialist Simon Jersey, and says the company, fashion and workwear designers should take note.

Operating across a global market, the company is finding that demand for non- standard sizes is increasing, as size and shape trends change. Already the company has had to alter some of its garments to suit its pan-European customers.

Simon Jersey’s Dutch country manager Liddy Brink, herself 6ft tall, confirms the changing trends, observing that in the past 10 years, women’s blouses in Holland have lengthened by 1- 2 cm both at the back and on the arms.