The year was 2006. On a sun-drenched August afternoon in Richmond, a 24-year-old Kate Middleton arrived at a polo match and unwittingly cemented one of her earliest and most memorable style moments. Dressed in a red V-neck dress scattered with polka dots, the future Princess of Wales captured the fashion world’s attention and kickstarted a trend that would dominate the decade.
Fast forward 19 years and the polka dot dress trend is enjoying a major renaissance. As summer 2025 takes hold, this nostalgic print is everywhere once again, proving its enduring appeal and reminding us just how ahead of the curve Middleton really was. Her look, with its retro-inspired neckline, vibrant red hue and playful dot pattern, feels as relevant today as it did nearly two decades ago.
Back then, she paired hers with a classic raffia wedge. Today, you might swap that for a sleek heeled mule or a chic Mary Jane flat—proof that timeless pieces can always be reimagined for a new era.
With polka dots once again dominating new-in sections, now is the perfect time to embrace this joyful trend. Keep scrolling for my edit of the best polka dot dresses to wear this summer.
SHOP POLKA DOT DRESSES:
While I love this in the polka dot, it also comes in a pretty floral print.
Style with strappy sandals or pair with heeled mule.
Add a pop of colour to your summer wardrobe.
I always come back to Rixo for their elegant summer dresses.
This looks much more expensive than it actually it.
I'm banking this ahead of high summer.
Style this with strappy sandals or wear with a knee-high boot when the weather cools.
Shop this while it's on sale.
This also comes in a red floral design.
Be quick—this won't stay in stock for long.
The halterneck design adds such a pretty element to this simple dress.
-
If You're Going to a Spring or Summer Wedding, These 26 Pieces Will Make You the Best Dressed GuestThe only warm-weather wedding guest dress list you need.
-
This Stylish New Yorker Has Has Impeccable Taste—35 Chic Spring Picks That Have Her AttentionThe dresses alone are gems.
-
ASOS Launched a New Collection Called Arrange—29 Styles Worth Checking Out ASAPShop our favorite picks ahead.
-
I'm a Fashion Editor Who Loves Effortless Vacation Essentials—25 Gap Finds That Caught My EyeMany are even on major sale.
-
Hot Take: This Trending Dress Color Is Prettier Than Pink, Red, and WhiteSorry, I said it.
-
Minimalists and Maximalists Agree—Polka Dots Are the Print of the MomentAnd they're here to stay.
-
It's Officially Linen Season—48 Fashion Editor Approved Styles to Wear Throughout 2025All your linen dreams come true.
-
22 Pretty, Everyday Dresses to Throw on Any Day of the WeekSign me up.
