Polka Dots Are Hot Again: 10 Ways To Bring Them Back Into Your Closet

Since polka dots are primarily a summer favourite, it only makes sense to weave them into everything that’s on-point for warm weather. That’s exactly where flowy dresses come in. The silhouette, paired with this playful print, will look beyond chic. Personally, I’d lean towards — and recommend — smaller black dots on a white base, especially when ruffles and frills are part of the mix.

How To Style: Since it can make up a great brunch look, go for nude lip shades, your favourite sunglasses, and kitten heels. 

Pro-Tip: 8 Summer Brunch Fits Inspired By Alexis Rose From Schitt's Creek

Polka dots aren't exactly a fashion risk at the office; in fact, they fit right in, thanks to their mostly monochrome colourways. There are plenty of ways to work them into your 9-to-5 wardrobe: think sheath dresses with boat necklines, ruched-waist skirts, blouses with tie collars, or tailored separates. The list goes on.

How To Style: The setting speaks for itself, so keep the look cohesive. Opt for a structured bag and a pair of dainty studs. Nothing too loud in the face, but still chic enough!

Pro-Tip: 12 Cool Workwear Outfit Ideas

While I’m all for miniature black dots on a white base, the classic white dots on black really shine after sunset. That’s when tights, bandeau tops, backless dresses, and all things sheer and lacy enter. And if you’re aiming for full-on “I eat elegance for dinner” energy, add pearl jewellery.

How To Style: All this, when topped up with a shade of red, either in the form of a lipstick or an envelope bag, would do wonders!

Pro-Tip: 10 Best Outfits For Dates 

It’s no secret that while polka dots look class-apart in black and white, they’re just as stunning on other shades too. And since this is a summer trend, we can’t let vibrant hues gather dust in our closets, can we? From primary reds to pastel purples and deep greens, white dots are total people-pleasers — they blend into any situation… oops, colour.

How To Style: Don't be afraid to play around with colours. Looking to wear green? Add on pink earrings and/or tie-up heels and look as bright as day!

Pro-Tip: 10 Brunch Outfit Ideas Ranging From Casual To Fancy

Polka dots have that kind of energy that makes you want to book a vacation ASAP — not that anyone ever needs convincing. They’re fresh, a little exotic, and perfectly suited for beachwear, resort wear, and anything that screams ocean breeze, coconut trees, and seaside shacks.

How To Style: Goes without saying that if you are going beachy, beaded bracelets, hats, woven or tote bags come together hand in hand.

Not a fan of full-on polka dot outfits, but still love the print enough to keep it in your wardrobe? I hear you. And luckily, there are plenty of ways to do just that. With brands like Flying Berry, Accessorize London, and Twenty Dresses dropping some seriously cute accessories, there are tons of subtle ways to work polka dots into your look.

How To Style: Since the polka dots are playing the role of enhancers here, pair them with solid outfits and watch your look get an instant upgrade, all with just a hint of this chic print!

I genuinely think picking an outfit for a sleepover is way harder than choosing one for a date. It needs to be comfy, cute enough for those group selfies and it definitely needs to fit well, because you’ll probably end up snoring in it. While the level of comfort is totally your call, if you’re aiming for cute and chic, there’s one print that nails it every time. Say it with me? Polka dots!

How To Style: If you're choosing loungewear that can double up for last-minute errand runs, go the extra mile with cute slippers and a matching hairband. 

Pro-Tip: 11 Home Wear Brands Online For Utmost Comfort

I firmly believe that clashing two prints, whether similar or totally different, is an art. And let’s be honest, not everyone can pull it off, because (a) making two patterns look cool together is no easy job, and (b) just to reiterate — it’s really not an easy job. But here’s the sweet spot: you don’t need a degree to try it out, especially when polka dots are in the mix. They play well with other polka dots, and even with stripes or checks. For some inspiration, scroll through the products!

How To Style: Whether you're going full-blown polka or just adding a hint, pair your outfit with gold jewellery and super-minimal accessories to steer clear of any print clash disasters.

If the world had a time machine, I’d head straight to the 1870s, the later Victorian era, when fashion took the front seat and everything else tried to catch-up. Think figure-hugging gowns, ruffles, balloon sleeves, and bows. What a time to exist! And guess what else made its mark back then? Polka dots. So, if you’ve got a soft spot for all things retro, consider this your official sign.

How To Style: Want to look like you just stepped out of the aristocracy? Reach for cat-eye sunglasses, bow headbands, and Mary Jane shoes. And if you're feeling extra, then frilled hats are absolutely welcome.

Pro-Tip: 10 Iconic Vintage Outfits Throughout History

To honour the very people who brought polka dots back to the hot list in 2025, yes, the French, it only makes sense to take A-to-Z style cues from them. And how are they wearing polka dots, you ask? Boujee here, boujee there, boujee everywhere. That luxe feel is all in the details. Cherry mocha shades, slip dresses, headscarves, gloves — basically anything that screams fancy.

How To Style: If you want to look all-out Parisian and hop onto trends what they are hopping onto, check out this guide.