On paper, polka dots are the perfect print for my aesthetic. I seldomly wear bright colours and tend to gravitate towards more classic pieces. So given the fact that polka dots usually come in monochromatic palettes and are largely considered timeless, you'd think I would take to them naturally. But for some reason, I've just never been into spots.
Looking back to my school days, I think my year-11 performance in Grease, for which I wore a polka-dot circle skirt complete with poodle embroidery, has something to do with my reluctance to wear the pattern today. Since then, I've always found it a bit twee and, well, costume-like. But seeing as polka dots are set to make a major comeback this autumn, I decided it was time to overcome my reluctance. To help myself embrace the polka-dot way of life, I set out to find chic polka-dot outfits that could overwrite my mindset.
It turns out fashion people really love to wear polka dots. I didn't expect to find so many excellent polka-dot outfits, but to my surprise, they were in plentiful supply. Below, I've rounded up eight outfits (none of which feature embroidered poodles) that feel entirely fresh.
Scroll on to see the stylish polka-dot outfits that have convinced me to give spots a whirl this season.
1. POLKA-DOT DRESS + TRAINERS
Style Notes: One of the easiest ways to channel polka dots is by way of a black and white midi dress. Marie Hindkaer brings hers up-to-date with a pair of trending New Balance trainers.
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2. SUIT + POLKA-DOT BAG
Style Notes: If you're tentative about polka dots like I am, why not dip your toe into the trend with a spotty accessory?
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3. PUFF-SLEEVE BLOUSE + POLKA-DOT TROUSERS
Style Notes: Wide-leg trousers have made their mark on the autumn style agenda. Tick off two trends at once with a polka-dot pair.
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4. POLKA-DOT DRESS + MULES
Style Notes: Polka dots make for a stylish alternative to floral prints, which usually dominate the wedding-guest-outfit scene. Make like Lucy Williams, and give yours a glamorous overhaul with metallic mules.
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5. POLKA-DOT JUMPSUIT + TENNIS SHOES
Style Notes: Essentially an entire look in one, a jumpsuit is the perfect outfit option when you're pressed for time. Opt for a polka-dot style, and you'll look all the more directional.
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6. JUMPER + POLKA-DOT SKIRT
Style Notes: Unlike the A-line style from my Grease performance, polka-dot skirts with ruching and draping feel significantly more modern.
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7. POLKA-DOT SHIRT + JEANS
Style Notes: Who says your polka dots need to stick to muted palettes? Williams clearly has a thing for polka dots, and this time she's wearing a bold, black and yellow shirt with an embellished bag and classic jeans.
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8. POLKA-DOT CO-ORD + STRAPPY SANDALS
Style Notes: Plan on wearing your polka dots after dark? A silky, spotty co-ord and strappy sandals are the way to go.
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