Pretty polka dots are multiplying and the trend for the spotty fun print is growing by the day.
We tell you why we love the them, why now is the time to buy and show you all our favourite picks from vintage inspired dresses, to accessories and pretty tops...
So Very Subtle When you hear the word subtle polka dots probably aren't the first thing to spring to mind, but this season’s love affair with the dot means there really is a choice for everyone. Polka dots need not be garish, bright or over the top, with designers and stores offering monotone versions in pretty garments with classic cuts. These are a great option for work wear to soften harsh suiting or to add interest to plain items. They are also great on those who may be bigger, because they won’t add bulk to the frame or accentuate any negative areas. If you are looking for a subtle take on the trend remember the golden rule of ‘smaller is better’.
The smaller and lighter the spot the more subtle it will be. My pick of the bunch is the pictured Galaxy Short Sleeve Shirt from Dotti. It features tiny black spots on a sheer pink fabric. Cute detailing compliments the Parisian chic feel of the top. Wear with winter suiting or your favourite pair of jeans and lay on the girlie touches!
Va-Va Vintage The celebrity and fashion world’s obsession with vintage is really what made polka dots a huge trend. Fifties and forties polka dot flirtations have been seen on all our favourite stars, the pages of fashion magazines and the racks of our stores. Many of the items are in the traditional vintage colour ways of white, red, blue and black or in cuts that are so very reminiscent of Ms Marilyn Monroe. The great thing about this look is that it’s so easy to find pieces within your budget. Op shops and Trade Me have a veritable wealth of cost effective polka dot pieces that are true vintage or retro items.
In store the trend allows you to go as cheap as $25 for a Sweetheart Neckline Polka Dot Tee at SUPRÉ to a Marc Jacobs black and white printed Chiffon Sun Dress for $350. If you are after that perfect vintage inspired buy look no further than this pink and black polka dot A-line Halterneck Dress from Ezibuy label Apart. This dress can be worn two ways, as a halter or you can tuck the straps into the dress for a strapless version.
Sophisticated Spots Yes you can wear a polka dot dress to an evening event or a 21st. Just because the print is fun and flirtatious does not mean that it is completely incapable of being dressed up. This is a great way to buy spots if you are not really sure the trend is for you or if you want your spotty buy to look great for work and play. If you’re in this boat choose a black item with a small white polka dot and stick to classic cuts. A shirred waist party dress might be out of the question but anything that is A–line, shirt cut or empire waisted is a good choice.
I love the pictured dress by Mink Pink from Wild Pair. It’s the kind of garment where the polka dot is not the focus of the look but enhances it and adds a playful edge. Pair back with simple black heels and a fitted black blazer for work. For the weekend wear with a vintage heel and red beads for something beatnik and fun.
Playin' Polka My favourite way to wear polka dots is in a bright accent piece. There are so many around this season, from blue and white polka dot tees to bright polka dot shoes and even polka dot jeans. These are great buys now, because there will still be so many dotty things popping up next season to play off the basic white items now arriving in stores. Next time you see a cute polka dot bag, pair of shoes or basic tee don’t just walk on by – these will be great buys for summer.
I stumbled across something that really fits into the bright accent piece category, this aptly named Lady Bug shrug is from Dotti and would look super cute over a plain tee with denim or over a plain black dress.
Cheap and Chic If you’re on a budget or already have those great polka dot items there is one more thing you might want to stock up on. Even though I've gone through all the basic polka dot items you might want this season and how to wear them I just couldn't go past this great budget buy. The pictured Polka Dot Thong from Ezibuy label Emerge is super cute and just oozes summer fun and beach trips. Plus they're only $19.95 so they really are cheap and chic.
Pretty polka dots are multiplying and the trend for the spotty fun print is growing by the day. 
When you hear the word subtle polka dots probably aren't the first thing to spring to mind, but this season’s love affair with the dot means there really is a choice for everyone. Polka dots need not be garish, bright or over the top, with designers and stores offering monotone versions in pretty garments with classic cuts. These are a great option for work wear to soften harsh suiting or to add interest to plain items. They are also great on those who may be bigger, because they won’t add bulk to the frame or accentuate any negative areas. If you are looking for a subtle take on the trend remember the golden rule of ‘smaller is better’. 
The celebrity and fashion world’s obsession with vintage is really what made polka dots a huge trend. Fifties and forties polka dot flirtations have been seen on all our favourite stars, the pages of fashion magazines and the racks of our stores. Many of the items are in the traditional vintage colour ways of white, red, blue and black or in cuts that are so very reminiscent of Ms Marilyn Monroe. The great thing about this look is that it’s so easy to find pieces within your budget. Op shops and 
Yes you can wear a polka dot dress to an evening event or a 21st. Just because the print is fun and flirtatious does not mean that it is completely incapable of being dressed up. This is a great way to buy spots if you are not really sure the trend is for you or if you want your spotty buy to look great for work and play. If you’re in this boat choose a black item with a small white polka dot and stick to classic cuts. A shirred waist party dress might be out of the question but anything that is A–line, shirt cut or empire waisted is a good choice. 
Playin' Polka
Cheap and Chic