Whatever way the fashion windsock is blowing, some prints will never go out of style.
Stripes are a dependable fallback, particularly in knitwear. Nothing is chicer (and easier) than chucking on a Breton top over jeans with pearls and a bold red lip.
Florals, no matter how often you wish to quote that Devil Wears Prada one-liner, are a perennial favourite in spring, of course, but also through the remaining three seasons. If you’re on the hunt for a special occasion dress - be it for the races, a wedding, or a formal work event - then a riot of petal patterns rarely fails to hit the mark. Simply adjust the palette to the level of sunlight.
Polka dots have earned their spot (ahem) in this bracket too. It’s a dependable pattern you can yank out of your closet whether you’re dressing for work, play or holiday. Don’t make the mistake of thinking dependable means dull, mind you. In the hands of the right design genius, this timeless pattern looks as current as ever.
Need we remind you of the Zara polka dot dress phenomenon? The simple white design with tiny black spots became the hottest dress of summer 2019. Rare was the London thoroughfare that you couldn't find someone wearing it. It was so ubiquitous that you'd see it at festivals, in wedding party photos - sometimes worn by the bride - and even spawned its own Instagram fan account (the now abandoned @Hot4TheSpot).
The Spanish retailer didn't trigger the trend as such (part of its popularity was down to inclusive sizing), but it did dust the pattern down from the dusty reaches of our collective fashion consciousness.
With lighter days coming, polka is making a playful return for both on and off-duty ensembles. Loved by royalty (Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales is often snapped in it) and the A-list, we’ve rounded up the hottest styles to be spotted in right now.
Shop the edit below
Mint Velvet Black Spot Print Ruffle Maxi Dress
Bring the power of polka dots into your workwear wardrobe with Mint Velvet's midi. The design mixes sizes in waterfall panels along the skirt, while the mini ruffle arms mean your arms won't overheat if you decide to add a blazer up top. Available in sizes 6 - 18.
Buy now £59.00, Mint Velvet
Alessandra Rich Twist-front gathered polka-dot silk midi dress
Inspired by tailored vintage cuts, designer Alessandra Rich presents a sharper take on polkas. The print feels elevated on silk fabric and the twisted waist suggests separates. The one to pick when you're watching Mad Men reruns.
Buy now £1395.00, Net-A-Porter
Self-Portrait Polka-dot taffetta corset dress
Is it romanticism you're gunning for this spring? Look no further than Self-Portrait's corset dress, the ivory polyester speckled with uniform black dots. The dry clean-only design suggests girl-next-door, even if you're anything but.
Buy now £475.00, My Theresa
French Connection Polka Dot Candice Satin Dress, Black/White
If you usually find yourself in head-to-toe black, a simple monochrome polka dot can add some variety without pushing you out of your comfort zone. The statement pattern teamed with the flattering V-neck cut, full sleeves and flared skirt makes this an easy office day winner. Plus, it’s currently reduced from £120. Talk about a bargain.
Buy now £48.00, John Lewis
Finery London Polka Dot Midi Tea Dress
A wardrobe staple, Finery London's take on the polka dot dress has a yes from us. Take the versatile midi everywhere, from work trips, family outings or brunch with your pals. The regular fit design comes in an inclusive size range (8 - 22) and skips lining, keeping it feeling light and airy.
Buy now £49.00, M&S
Damson Madder Penelope midi - blue & red spot
So often polka dots stick to the black and white script but label of the moment Damson Madder proves you can have fun with the print with a powder blue and red alternative. A corset-style top sits above a full skirt, the seam hidden by two kitsch bows. Be warned: there are only a few sizes left, so if the stars are in your favour - be quick!
Buy now £90.00, Damson Madder
Monsoon Dora Polka Dot Velvet Midi Dress Teal
Monsoon is a great place to pick up dressier pieces, and its sales rarely disappoint. In the realm of polka dots, this teal midi stops the look from being OTT by keeping the pattern up top on a sheer layer with ruffle trims. A velvet skirt adds to the textural vibe. Available in sizes 8 - 24.
Buy now £75.00, Monsoon
Reformation Talvi Dress
Who doesn't want to feel like a 50s pin-up some days? Reformation references midcentury fashion in its Talvi dress, a polka-patterned halterneck design that comes with the womenswear holy grail - pockets. Ideal for weddings with enough of those dots in play so as not to be mistaken for the bride, the design finishes at midi length with a flash of black lace.
Buy now £398.00, Reformation
Nobody’s Child Black Polka Dot Jacquard Angela Midi Dress
For a subtler take on polka print, this Nobody's Child design nails it. Jacquard dots are layered over the dress in the same colour with matching lace trims pulling everything together. Add strappy deals and simple gold jewellery for an easy date night look.
Buy now £79.00, Nobody’s Child
Free People ultraviolet polka dot shirred bust midaxi dress in oak
It may be 35 years since Pretty Woman hit our screens, but Julia Roberts' outfits from the movie look still offer plenty of inspiration. We're referencing her polo look with Free People's brown and white spot midaxi, which comes in sizes 4 - 16. A look with superb variety, dress it up or down as the occasional calls.
Buy now £158.00, ASOS
Zimmerman Crush ruffled polka-dot linen and silk-blend organza mini dress
Polka is a pattern loved from the high street to the high end. Luxe label Zimmerman offers this Molly Ringwald-inspired design from its Resort '25 collection. Made with linen and silk-blend organza, it's so fun, so sexy, so 80s. Save it for destination wedding receptions or Ascot.
Buy now £1775.00, Net-A-Porter
RIXO Meg Leopard Midi Dress
This much-loved Rixo design has been seen everywhere from Eurostar lounges to garden parties. With two heavyweight patterns in the mix - inverse polkas and leopard print panels on the skirt - it's one for confident dressers. The Meg midi comes in regular and petite fit with sizes spanning 6 - 26.
Buy now £275.00, RIXO
