Dress Trends Come and Go, But Fashion People Know This Elegant Style Will Last Forever

Every fashion editor knows that the fashion trends business can be a fickle game. Racing through trends at a blink or you'll miss it pace, 2024's trend cycle is even less forgiving than those that came before. Amid the noise of rising and falling trends, I always find it useful to keep a few timeless staples close to hand—and having had a scroll through my Instagram feed, it appears I'm not the only one.

Snapping up polka dot dresses left, right, and centre, this classic dress print is a mainstay in the summer wardrobes of fashion people around the world. With a classic motif that's been in circulation for decades, the simple polka dot design wears well with other prints, but also holds its own when styled alone or with block colours.

Influencer styles a polka dot dress.

(Image credit: @georgia_3.0)

Available in wide range of styles, I've found playful minis, chic midis and elegant maxis peppered in the classic print and worthy of a wardrobe space up. From Reformation's evening-ready style, to Marks & Spencer's vibrant dress—this season's polka dot iterations play with sizes, shapes and cuts, creating a diverse range of options to suit any style.

A reliable hero in my own summer wardrobe, below I've rounded up some of the chicest polka dot dress outfits that I've spotted on Instagram below, to top you up with summer styling inspiration. Read on to discover how influencers are styling the polka dot dress trend, as well as shop our edit of the best polka dot dresses to buy now.

See How Influencers Are Styling the Polka Dot Dress Trend

Influencer styles a polka dot dress.

(Image credit: @sabinasocol)

Style Notes: A black polka-dot mini is now a firm favourite in the fashion girl's wardrobe.

Influencer styles a polka dot dress.

(Image credit: @remyfarrell)

Style Notes: Who What Wear's Fashion Editor Remy Farrell styled a chic strapless polka dot dress from Reiss whilst on holiday in Tulum.

Influencer styles the polka dot dress trend.

(Image credit: @abimarvel)

Style Notes: The polka dot print looks chic in every colour—just ask influencer @abimarvel.

Influencer styles a polka dot dress.

(Image credit: @theindiaedit)

Style Notes: Keep your accessories to a minimum and let that playful print do the talking.

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(Image credit: Hannah Almassi)

Style Notes: Who What Wear's Hannah styled an elegant flamenco-style gown from De La Vali.

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(Image credit: @styleidealist)

Style Notes: Style with a strappy sandals for an easy and chic summer look.

Influencer styles a polka dot dress.

(Image credit: @summerrachelwarren)

Style Notes: The polka dot print looks extra elegant in the form of a longline halter neck dress.

Shop Our Polka-Dot Dress Edit

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Natalie Munro
News Writer

Natalie Munro is Who What Wear UK’s news writer. Having worked in the fashion industry since her time at university—where she obtained a BA in Journalism from University of the Arts London, Natalie's experience spans journalistic and styling roles. In the early stages of her career Natalie predominately worked on editorial shoots for fashion publications such as British Vogue, Vogue Ukraine, AnOther Magazine and Elle UK, before moving into journalism roles.

On completion of her degree she interned in the editorial team at British Vogue and later went on to freelance for the publication. Here, she developed her interest in reporting on the latest fashion news and trends. Inspired by the dynamic nature of the industry, Natalie went on to write for other lifestyle and fashion brands and publications before taking on the role as News Writer for Who What Wear.

With an interest in uncovering the latest fashion trends, Natalie takes a leading role in identifying news for Who What Wear UK. Focusing on trends on and off the runway, as well as street style and celebrity fashion, Natalie reports on a daily basis, ensuring that she remains ahead of the trends. Natalie also creates content for Who What Wear’s social channels including TikTok and Instagram on a weekly basis.