Trend How To: Polka Dots

If you’re anything like me, when polka dot clothing comes to mind it’s normally images of children’s dresses or an old ladies shirt that has lipstick stains around the collar.Call me crazy, but that’s never been great incentive to stride confidently out the door in such a print. It seems all these years, the humble polka dot has been yearning for more, shaking off the stereotypes and proving itself worthy of a full fashion revival. Thankfully, this leaves us fashionistas with a fun, flirty, and adorably retro print to work into our Spring/Summer wardrobes.

Designers like Marc Jacobs, Diane Von Furstenberg, and David Koma paraded polka dots down the runway earlier this year and ever since, a rising number of celebrities have been spotted wearing the print. So it seems only natural that Australian retailers are encouraging us to do the same, by producing jackets, dresses, shirts, and skirts to ensure we’re well covered.

Keen to embrace the trend? Then take cues from Katy Perry, and rock a fitted polka dot dress that is loaded with vintage, pin-up girl charm. Or perhaps you’re looking for something polished and feminine that will work for the office and your after work date? Then swap your white shirt for a polka dot one, team with a simple blazer, and we guarantee the result will be perfectly appropriate (and still a little bit sexy).

Start seeing spots with some of our top picks:

1. Marc Jacobs Wool Fleece Dress, $1850 at www.netaporter.com 2. Boutique Baby Doll Dress, $160 at www.topshop.com 3. Tie Front Blouse, $304 at www.shoplesnouvelles.com 4. SES Polka Dot Self Tie Dress, $24.95 at www.westfield.com.au 5. Navy Crochet Collar Swing Top, $70 at www.topshop.com 6. Marc Jacobs Wool Fleece Skirt, $995 at www.netaporter.com 7. Navy Front Pocket Blouse, $76 at www.topshop.com 8. Indy Spot Dress, $79 at www.sportsgirl.com.au 9. Halston Heritage Silk Sheer Blouse, $265 at www.shopzoeonline.com