Last Updated on July 21, 2026 by Eve Dawes
The fashion trend everyone’s wearing this year and how to style them this season
Polka dot dresses have been everywhere this year, from the runways to the streets, horse races to wedding guest outfits. Just open up your Instagram and you’ll be sure to see polka dots. It’s one of those timeless prints that’s hard to go wrong with. It suits both minimalists and maximalists and is such a chic print for Summer. Actually make that Spring and Fall too. If you’ve been wanting to give this trend a go, I’ve rounded up the best polka dot dresses to embrace this trend whatever your budget and style. From cute minis, to elegant midis and flowing maxi dresses, classic black and white polka dot dresses to colorful red and white iterations and brown polka dot dresses for Julia Robert (Pretty Woman) vibes. Get prepared to wear this trend on repeat. I certainly have!
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Are polka dots in style for 2026
Polka dots are having a major moment and are back in style in full force from oversized to micro dots, tops to dresses and coord sets. It’s one of those prints that never gets old, especially with some fresh styling ideas. I’ve already added 4 to my summer wardrobe!
Polka dot dresses and tops continue to be a runway favorite season after season. From playful, feminine styles at Moschino, to oversized dots on crochet dresses and gowns at Carolina Herrera, and retro fit and flare skirts at Jacquemus.
If you’re looking for something ultra feminine Magda Butrym and Self-Portrait can do no wrong. For something more affordable and minimalistic More To Come and SNDYS hit the mark and for retro chic the Sans Faff black and white polka dot dress pictured below and red Posse dress are perfection.
How to style polka dot dresses
If you’re stuck for ways to wear your polka dot dresses to keep them looking fresh, here’s 11 ways to style them from day to night:
- Pair with kitten heels and a mini handbag for a look that’s fresh and elegant.
- For a casual look, style with strappy flat sandals and cute mini bag.
- For 80’s power dressing for the office add black tights and stiletto pumps.
- Two tone slingback heels like Chanel’s add a timeless elegant touch especially with brown polka dot dresses.
- For a preppy look, style your black and white polka dot mini dress with black loafers and white ankle socks.
- Add metallic heels or silver Mary Janes for a glam touch for the evening.
- Style your red polka dot dress with sneakers or ballet flats for a relaxed but fun summer aesthetic.
- Think Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman and style your brown polka dot dress with simple white pumps or for a modern take, pointy kitten heels.
- To transition from Spring or into Fall add a black or navy blazer for a polished look.
- If you’re braving sheer styles, layer over black tights and style with pointed toe stiletto pumps for a sexy but ladylike look. Add a cardigan to keep it relaxed.
- For a change from tone on tone add a pop of color, whether that’s red shoes, red bag or a red lip.
Polka Dot Dresses I’m Wearing Right Now
Three polka dot dresses currently in heavy rotation, from casual mini to full on gown:
The Lovers and Friends Betty Mini Dress in Black Polka Dot ($190) is the easiest of the three to throw on. It’s a flattering mini silhouette with a low back and adjustable straps that works equally well dressed down with sandals or dressed up for the evening. I got it to go with my Chanel slingback heels, so I’ve been pairing mine with strappy flat sandals and a mini bag for daytime, and swapping in for block heels and gold jewelry once the sun goes down.
The LPA Dorothy Mini Dress in Black and Cream Polka Dot ($229) has a slightly softer silhouette and cream toned dot that reads a touch more elevated than a classic black and white pairing. What sold me on it besides the print which is my current obsession is the matching polka dot scarf which I thought was so elegant. If you don’t want to wear it around your neck you can also use it as a headband, belt or tied around your bag. This is such a great dress if you want polka dots without it feeling too graphic. This one looks best with something equally soft, think nude heels or a cream blazer thrown over the top for cooler evenings.
For anything black tie or formal, the MAJORELLE Brandi Gown in Black and White Dot (currently $309, marked down from $328) has been on repeat all summer for me and proves polka dots aren’t just a daytime print. This floor length gown with it’s flower embellishment makes the case for wearing the trend to your next formal event. It feels really special on and moves beautifully and it’s one of those dresses that turns heads and gets compliments. Keep accessories minimal here, a slim clutch and simple drop earrings or studs to let the print and the silhouette do the talking.
Shop the best polka dot dresses trending now
You really can’t go wrong with this trend. Whether that’s a classic white or black style, colorful red polka dot dress or for Julia Roberts Pretty Woman vibes a brown polka-dot dress.
Here’s the 30+ styles that caught my eye from designer to luxe for less, minimalist to maximalist.
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