How to style different polka-dot dresses

You might think of them as vintage, but polka-dot dresses are everywhere this season. Celebrities like Kaia Gerber and Sydney Sweeney have also been spotted stepping out in the whimsical pattern, and Priyanka Chopra wore the style at the Met Gala.

As shopping editors, our team is constantly writing about the latest fashion trends and buying behaviours. (The Labubu craze has been on our radar for some time now, but unlike the collectible, polka-dot dresses are timeless.) And this winter, it’s all about having fun with colors and lengths when it comes to the trend. While we love a classic black-and-white pattern, we've been into the red, browns, and even pink polka dots lately.

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Want to lean into the retro style? Below, we broke down exactly how to style polka-dot dresses this season.

1. Black-and-white polka-dot dresses

If you normally stick to neutrals, then the OG black-and-white polka-dot dress is a great place to start. To give it a modern twist, go with an open-back option. “Styling a polka-dot dress is all about creating balance,” says Nena Evans, a fashion and lifestyle digital creator. “Try a raffia tote and thong sandals with a cotton midi for daytime, or opt for a voluminous polka-dot silhouette with a leather mini bag and pointed-toe mules when the occasion calls for something more elegant.”

A smaller micro trend we’ve been eyeing? The skinny scarf, which has been quietly appearing attached to dresses at major retailers. Combine that with a cute crossbody bag and strappy heels, and you have an elegant ensemble fit for a beach wedding. If you’re taking it out for date night, just add a black leather jacket, a clutch, and platforms.

@revolve The perfect spring wedding guest dress DOES exist 💁‍♀️🖤 And it has polka dots 🤭🤍 @ivanaramirezm in the LPA Giulia Maxi Dress ✨ #revolve #polkadots #trends #fashion #spring #springfashion #dress #dressinspo #weddingguest #wedding #weddingguestdress #maxidress #style #scarf #chic #styling #accessories ♬ Ariana Grande / Doja cat / Megan Thee Stallion Type Beat(969753) - RYOTA KATO

@thetribeoflion What do we think of this look? Polka dots are so chic for the spring! Dress and jacket are from @Naked Wardrobe 🤎 Everything you need to recreate this look will be linked! #polkadots #springoutfits #springfashion #ootd #basics #fashiontiktok #tiktokfashion #outfitideas #outfitinspo #momsoftiktok #basics #elevatedbasics #capsulewardrobe #closetstaples #elevatingbasics #outfitsdaily #creatorsearchinsights ♬ original sound - Tribe of Lion 🇿🇦🇺🇸🇨🇺🇹🇿

2. Red polka-dot dresses

If you’re already a fan of floral dresses, you’re going to fall in love with red polka-dot dresses. If you’re stepping out in a red polka-dot dress, you really can’t go wrong with your go-to pair of heels or ballet flats. The color is so punchy and plays to the tomato-girl summer aesthetic that’s been making the rounds on social media.

@lesfillesdeva Polka dot silk dress #lesfillesdeva #fallwinter #winterlook #winteroutfit #dress #polkadot #reddress ♬ suono originale - Les Filles d’Eva

3. Brown polka-dot dresses

Since I’m a fan of browns and neutrals, the brown polka-dot dress, à la Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman, is right up my alley. You can really have fun with this color by pairing either a romantic slip or a silk maxi version with pointy kitten heels.

@ms_cazxoxo In this look, I’m wearing a classic brown polka dot dress that gives off a perfect retro feel. The dress features short sleeves and a slit that adds a playful touch to the traditional style. I’ve cinched the waist with a vintage inspired belt to create a flattering silhouette. Paired with a wide brim straw hat, retro cat eye sunglasses, and white pointed-toe heels, this outfit is all about merging elegance with a relaxed, vintage aesthetic. #grwm #stylingvswearing . . . #vintageglamour #fall #fallstyle #autumnaesthetic #vintage #vintagestyle #vintagefashion #vintageclothes #vintageaesthetic #femininestyle #femininefashion #blackvintage #styleinspo #lookbook #falllooks #classy #classystyle ♬ Get Ready - The Temptations

@ciaocarito this Friday’s spring color combo 🦢 styling my gifted @Mister Zimi dress #colorcombo #springoutfit #polkadots ♬ original sound - Ms.Kly - Ms.Kly ^᪲᪲᪲⋆🍒