Trending Now: Polka Dots

How to get the trend spot-on for any occasion in your diary, from how to accessorise a polka-dot dress to what to wear with a dotty blouse

Content editor

Dulcie Emerson

Woman wearing a black and white polka-dot dress

Do the polka

Polka dots are hot news this spring/summer and they're inspired by the wardrobes of style icons from the 1950s. Make like Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn with a fit-and-flare dress to embrace the vintage aesthetic.

Our black and white polka-dot dress is guaranteed to spark joy. With its pleated puff sleeves and tiered skirt for added volume, it'll put a welcome spring in your step. Wear with sleek kitten heels and a clutch for an evening event, or with chic ballet flats for a high-low mix that feels so right for now.

Complete the look with subtle gold jewellery. We love red lipstick for setting off the retro-inspired design, but understated make-up also looks unfussy and ultra-modern.

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Woman wearing a polka-dot blouse with white linen trousers, silver hoop earrings and textured bangles

How to style polka dots

Wondering how to get the most wear out of your polka-dot piece? Fret not. Polka dots and denim jackets are a match made in heaven, the durability of the latter adding an instant casual edge to even the flounciest dresses or blouses. You could also try pairing with a leather jacket, a tailored blazer, or with a lightweight jumper knotted around your shoulders.

Polka-dot skirts are easy to wear during warmer weather, whether you choose a mini, midi or maxi length. Or if in doubt, choose a polka-dot top and then keep your bottoms simple: classic linen trousers pair well with polka dots.

Add a pair of chic ballet flats for everyday wear, or dress up with strappy heels if you're going out-out. Bare legs are the only accessory you'll need on sunny days.

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Woman wearing polka-dot dress with gold hoop earrings, a black bag and black kitten heels

How to accessorise a polka-dot dress

A print as eye-catching as polka dots needs little in the way of complex accessories. Keep bags minimal, in either the colour of the dot or the background, or in a contrasting shade. Think complementary pastels or a pop of bright, zingy colour.

Match your accessories to your footwear for a co-ordinated look, or keep things polished with neutrals. If you prefer an artful clash, mix things up with unexpected colour and texture. Finally, when it comes to gilding the look, reach for oversized gold jewellery – like these Autograph hoop earrings – to amplify the old-school glamour of polka dots.

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