Each season, I monitor my favorite Instagram fashion girls' style choices, and I've recently observed a striking pattern worth noting: polka dots, specifically on dresses. This summer, polka-dot dresses are making waves from coast to coast, with women styling them for everything from European getaways to daily office wear. But while these dresses are undeniably fun and flirty for the warmer months, it is their timeless charm and deep connection to fashion history that's responsible for their long-lasting and widespread popularity.
Polka-dot dresses have been a popular fashion choice since the 1950s. Legendary actresses such as Joan Crawford, Marilyn Monroe, and Julia Roberts wore them in iconic films, and they even became a signature look for Princess Diana in the '80s. These influential women helped establish polka-dot dresses as a fashion staple.
When styling this print, it's essential to do so thoughtfully to highlight its classic appeal. For instance, you can choose footwear like ballet flats, pointed-toe pumps, knee-high boots, or sleek sneakers, and handbags such as structured shoulder bags or raffia purses. For the perfect finishing touch, complete the look with wide-brimmed straw hats, pearl necklaces, or cuff bracelets.
To ensure that you have everything you need to get started on this trend, I've curated a collection of the 19 best polka-dot dresses below. Prepare to be spellbound by this style, just like everyone else on my Instagram feed.
Shop the best polka-dot dresses:
This dress is the perfect introduction to the style. It features small polka dots, delicate straps, and a simple silhouette that makes it appropriate for every occasion.
The adjustable tie straps and the distinctive blue-and-white palette of this dress represent a departure from conventional polka-dot designs.
I'd wear this for date night with kitten heels, silver hoops, and a black clutch.
Got a wedding coming up? This halterneck style will help you make a subtle statements.
This is the perfect summer dress for the office. I love the brown-and-yellow combination.
I was shocked when I saw the under-$150 price tag. This dress looks at least $500.
This linen dress is a casual and cool way to nail the look.
Posse creates some of my favorite summer dresses. I adore this one for its simple and elegant style.
If I saw someone wearing this on the street, I would immediately know they were into fashion.
I imagine this worn on a cool summer evening with pointed-toe slingback heels. However, I can also see it styled in the fall or winter with knee-high boots.
The mini silhouette, dainty straps, and lightweight material scream heat-wave dressing.
I'd wear this one every day if I could. Not only do I love Ganni, but the combination of denim and polka dots is an immediate yes in my book.
If you don't own a Dôen dress, what are you waiting for? I can't even count on my fingers how many fashion It girls own a piece from the California brand.
This polka-dot style is perfect for the transitional season with its midi length and dark hues.
Embrace the playful charm of summer with the adorable bubble hem and puff sleeves.
The delicate lace detailing brings a touch of romance that beautifully complements the fun and flirty polka-dot pattern.
I picture this dress in a lush field in the heart of Tuscany.
This may seem simple, but it is extremely versatile, allowing you to get a lot of use out of it.
I would describe this as elegant, classic, and chic, which means it's perfect.
Show off your radiant, sun-kissed décolletage in this breezy and lightweight number.
The combination of polka dots and florals perfectly complements L'Agence's unique dress designs, appealing to women from 20 to over 50 years old.
The floral accent makes this mini stand out from the rest. Plus, it's under $250 but looks designer. Yes, please.
Who said you can't wear a polka-dot dress over a swimsuit? This is the perfect style for that.
I need this for my friend's rehearsal dinner in October in the Hamptons. It's chic and classic and won't take the attention away from the bride.
It is so elegant, and I can't believe it comes with the chic belt.
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