It feels like for some time now, stripes have been the print of choice for fashion girls due to their French-girl proximity. But now everyone is obsessed with polka dots—and showing no sign of slowing down.
The pattern was prominent in the 2010s when everyone was engaging in peak twee. Now that ballet flats are firmly back, it feels right that we would also see a resurgence of polka dot everywhere. But no one is being casual about it. If you buy a really great polka-dot dress, you're likely to immediately need to buy another one. I speak from experience.
Me in my favorite Rixo polka-dot dress, which I wrote about recently
When I first got my Rixo Clarice polka-dot dress, I wasn't expecting for it to quickly become one of my most-worn pieces. But it is. I wear it all the time when I don't know what else to wear, and I can't go anywhere without getting a compliment on it. I blame the polka dots. They are so charming and so cute. The dress feels retro; it has a vintage vibe. But it also isn't too much. So I can and often do easily dress it up and down with some ballet flats or little kitten heels. I add a polka-dot flower choker when I'm feeling saucy.
One of my other go-to dresses is also a polka-dot dress by Saks Potts. (RIP. I will miss this brand!) It's a white dress with long flowy balloon sleeves and large red polka dots. It's another thing I always gravitate toward when I can't quite decide what else to wear. Polka dots just make me feel like that girl.
Me in my beloved Saks Potts polka-dot dress, which I pack for every trip and wear on every vacation
And recently, every other fashion editor I've spoken to has been feeling the same. We're all deeply addicted to buying polka-dot dresses. Maybe it's 2025's version of the LBD as we start to move away from minimalism. You need at least one, but once you find the perfect one, you'll realize you can never have too many.
Below, the absolute best polka-dot dresses that will jump-start your next dress obsession. Trust me.
Shop the best polka-dot dresses:
-
Trust Me, These 5 Summer Trends Will Still Be Dominating in The FallInvest now, wear all year.
-
I Swear By Elegant Outfits—35 Standout Items That Would Fit Right Into My ClosetHere's to a chicer outfit rotation.
-
Too Hot to Think? Try These 33 Chic Summer Finds From Revolve That Basically Style ThemselvesMatching sets and lovely lace styles.
-
It's Settled: Fashion People in NYC Are Obsessed With This Non-Denim Skirt TrendLet Ciara show you how it's done.
-
My Love Language Is Summer Linens and Cottons—J.Crew and Anthropologie Speak It FluentlyHeat-wave approved.
-
The Pretty Summer Top You'll See in Every New York Park This SummerWine included.
-
Linens, Trousers, and Button-Downs, Oh My! These 30 Banana Republic Sale Picks Are Summer MagicUp to 60% off.
-
This Anti-Trend Item Makes Every Summer Outfit a SuccessWrinkly clothes have never been cooler.
