If you’ve heard the song “Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini,” then you already know that polka-dot swimsuits have been a classic among swimwear trends. The playful print simply speaks to the nature of summer, so why wouldn’t we want to wear it poolside or at the beach every time we get the chance?
We might blame fashion’s love for polka dots on the likes of Jacquemus, but for swimwear, we went straight to Sabra Krock, the creative director of Everything But Water, for why the swim world loves polka dots.
“Polka dots have long adorned swimwear—going back to the little polka-dot bikini,” Krock says. “The print always reads as fresh and fun for summer, which is why we see it return season after season as a classic.” Krock also shares that this season the polka dot has some new life, with designers playing with scale and a more artistic, painterly style. Of course, the polka dot also plays classically into a vintage-inspired look as well.
See what this expert means and shop our favorite polka-dot swimsuits below.
Marysia makes the cutest swimwear.Top and Antibes Scallop Brazilian Bottom ($141) available in sizes XS to L.
You can’t go without a classic polka-dot bikini.Available in sizes XS to L.
So retro.Top and Unique Vintage Polka Dot Skirted Bottoms ($58) available in sizes 14 to 18.
Big polka dots are so chic.Top and Shale Colorblock High Waist Bottom ($175) available in sizes XS to L.
This cut is so classic.Available in sizes 4 to 12.
This one-piece is too good.Available in sizes 2 to 12.
Get some sun by the pool with this.Top and Side Ruffle Bottom ($115) available in sizes XS to L.
If you prefer a sportier swimsuit, this one is for you.Top and Jade High Rise Polka Dot Briefs ($75) available in sizes S to XL.
This smocked detail is super flattering.Available in sizes XS to L.
You’ll feel so chic in this.Available in sizes XS to L.
Top and Mariposa Thong Bikini Bottoms available in sizes XS to L.
We love this square neckline.Available in sizes S to L.
This swimsuit is so flattering.Available in sizes M to 6X.
The ruffles make this suit so cute.Available in sizes S to L.
This Moschino bikini has a cool edge to it.Available in sizes 36 to 42.
Yes, you need a yellow polka-dot bikini.Available in sizes 0 to 3.
So cute.Top and Scallop High Waist Bikini Bottom ($35) available in sizes X to 3X.
We’re obsessed with this color combo.Available in sizes XS to L.
This retro-inspired bikini will look so good at the beach.Available in sizes S to L.
Throw it back with a red-and-white polka-dot bikini this summer.Available in sizes 6 to 24.
Want to shop more swimwear? Check out the coolest trends you need to know.
-
I'm From Miami—4 Affordable Swimwear Brands I Reach For Every SummerLet bikini season begin.
-
Crochet Season Is Here: These Are the Best Dresses, Swimsuits, and Bags for SummerThe unofficial texture of summer.
-
Every Chic European Woman Is Wearing This Sub-$50 Swimwear TrendA South of France favorite.
-
The 24 Best Swimsuits in Every Summer Color TrendFeast your eyes on these bikinis and one-pieces.
-
The Only 35 Swimsuits You Need to Know About in 2024From bikinis to maillots.
-
Reformation Finally Launched Swimwear, and the Collection Is Pure Elegance*Orders every suit.*
-
Sofia Richie Wore the Retro Bikini Style That's Ripe for a World-Class ComebackAnd it's still for sale.
-
21 Pink Bikinis That Scream Malibu BarbieLet's go party.
