Polka Dots Spring Fashion Trend Takes Over Streets and Runways
Take a quick glance at the street style pictures from February's various fashion weeks, and it is not hard to spot spring's cheeriest trend. Polka dots are taking over in a big way, and even the super chic women of the front row are indulging in their fun side with this playful print. This resurgence highlights how classic patterns can make a vibrant comeback each season.
The Perennial Appeal of Polka Dots in Modern Wardrobes
In many ways, polka dots are one of those perennial prints—like leopard—that never completely disappear from our wardrobes. However, right now they are everywhere; from handbags to dresses, jackets to skirts. The great thing about this look is that you can translate it to be as subtle or out-there as you wish. Like a pared-back style? Stick to black-and-white prints with a scattering of dainty dots. More of a maximalist? Oversized polka dots or vibrant colours are your friends.
For inspiration, here are a few of the polka dot pieces we have spotted making street style waves in the past few months—plus, our round-up of the best polka dots on the high street.
Styling Polka Dots: Dresses and Outerwear
Dresses: A floor-sweeping polka dot maxi dress or metallic minis are great vehicles for polka dots. For an all-out embrace of the polka dot trend, you cannot go wrong with a dress. We keep being told that floral midi dresses are out, but a polka dot dress is very much of the moment, and equally wearable. If in doubt, stick to black-and-white, then add bright accessories for a dose of colour.
- H&M Draped Mesh Dress
- Finery London Floral Tie Neck Midi Tea Dress
- H&M Halterneck Chiffon Dress
Coats and Jackets: A polka dot coat looks great with colour pop accessories. You may well be at the point of the year where you never want to look at your winter coat again—if so, we hear you. It may be time to swap for something lightweight and jollier, such as Free People's polka dot denim duster, or a short spotty number from ASOS (on-trend funnel neck also featured).
- Free People We The Free Monique Denim Duster
- Nobody's Child Cream Polka Dot Swing Jacket
- ASOS DESIGN denim funnel neck sports jacket in polka dot
Versatile Polka Dot Tops and Accessories
Tops and Blouses: Polka dots elevate the 'nice top and jeans' combo; swerve away from a classic black and white look for added oomph. Chances are you have already got a polka dot top somewhere in your wardrobe—whether it is a voluminous pussy-bow blouse or a strappy polka dot cami. This print is the perfect way to bring an element of playfulness to smart workwear, and for casual styling a polka dot top looks great in the classic 'nice top and jeans' combo.
- H&M Draped One Shoulder Top
- Reformation Raya Fitted Silk Shirt
- Phase Eight Rita Spot Print Shirt
- H&M Halterneck Top
Accessories: Polka dot accessories are an easy way into the trend. The easiest way to dip a toe in the trend? Polka dot shoes of course. New Look's slingbacks are really calling to us. Elsewhere on the high street you can find polka dot scarves, bags, and scrunchies.
- New Look Black Satin Polka Dot Slingback Court Shoes
- Sam Edelman Michaela Shine Mary Jane Ballerina Pumps
- Cream Polka Dot Mini Charm Tote Bag
Skirts, Trousers, and Final Thoughts
Skirts and Trousers: A chic look at Fashion Week. If you are a bit over leopard print skirts, then the polka dot satin slip skirt is a good step on for spring. H&M's cream version, with a pretty fluted hem, is calling to us for the sunnier months ahead. Prefer something less girly? Try Mango's stylish spotted jeans with a black bomber and ballet flats.
- H&M Viscose Skirt
- Mango Polka Dot Balloon Jeans
- H&M Draped Midi Skirt
- Mint Velvet Polka Dot Lace Trim Midi Skirt
- Adidas Satin Polka Dots Wide Leg Pant
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