This is the most feminine trend for summer 2025. Timeless classic and vintage style in one
On the one hand, creating a polka dot print outfit seems simple and obvious. On the other, polka dots have been practically everywhere, in every decade and across many centuries, so giving them a modern twist might not be so easy. One thing is certain: polka dots can accompany fashion at various stages and find their way into very different aesthetics. Perhaps that's why each time they return to the top is truly heartwarming.
Summer Fashion 2025 - Anna Wintour in a Polka Dot Dress / Getty ImagesThe name "polka dot" print (literally translated as a pattern of dots or polka dots) appeared over 200 years ago and is derived from the joyful Czech dance, the polka. The 19th century was a time of great transformation for polka dots, with various meanings attributed to them depending on the trend's development. It flourished most rapidly in Asia, where it could be easily achieved using the Shibori fabric dyeing technique known there.
In Europe, polka dots gained momentum after 1830, when the improved sewing machine emerged, allowing for the development of various prints. By the end of the 19th century, they were popular enough to appear on the covers of contemporary magazines. The turning point for polka dots in the fashion world can be considered 1926, when polka dots appeared on Miss America's outfit, sparking fashion enthusiasm. Just two years later, polka dots began adorning the skirt of one of Disney's most important characters – Minnie Mouse.
From that time on, the golden age of polka dots began, appearing in various formats, on virtually every wardrobe item. They reached their peak in the 1940s, becoming the most popular choice among celebrities. Marilyn Monroe was a huge fan, making them famous a decade later. In the 1960s, they underwent a significant transformation, expanding their size. Polka dots became a more "everyday" print, moving from elegant flared skirts and corsets to looser, trapeze dresses.
In the 1980s and 1990s, polka dots took on a modern dimension. They had to fit the maximalism trend, where they were combined with other prints and colors. The 1950s pin-up girl aesthetic was labeled retro, and polka dots on contemporary outfits looked very futuristic for the time. The classic, subtle pattern was considered elegant and minimalist at the time.
Princess Diana was a huge fan of polka dots, wearing literally any polka-dot garment. From socks to shirts, scarves, and dresses. And while Diana was one of the main pioneers of polka dots at the time, it's impossible not to mention pop culture, where polka dots have graced the big screen, for example in the film "Pretty Woman" starring Julia Roberts.
Summer Fashion 2025 - Polka Dots / Getty ImagesThe 21st century brought a polka dot mishmash to fashion. Designers already had extensive knowledge from previous decades, but they also yearned to create something completely new. At the very beginning of the new millennium, polka dots were the main motif in Ralph Lauren's collections, captivated by the print. Polka dots appeared regularly in fashion houses' collections, and because everyone interpreted them differently, they were able to maintain their continuity through the following decades, appearing in absolutely every form.
Summer Fashion 2025 - Polka Dot Dress / Getty ImagesLast season, there was a significant surge in interest in the polka dot print. Dolce & Gabbana, Stella McCartney, Carolina Herrera, Comme des Garçons, and Marc Jacobs all returned to their iconic polka dot designs. Polka dots are making another major comeback. Every fan of this print can now choose not only the polka dot format but also its aesthetic.
Jacquemus offers a retro style straight from the 1950s, with polka dots on pencil skirts paired with a blazer. Carolina Herrera, on the other hand, sees polka dots on flowing evening gowns and more contemporary crochet ensembles. Moschino, on the other hand, takes a more extravagant approach to polka dots, featuring them on bows and ruffles on dresses. The polka dot print, currently in full swing, has already taken over the most popular chain stores, and according to Trendalytics, searches for polka dot clothing will increase by 260% by 2025!
Stylists are approaching polka dots with considerable imagination. On the one hand, quiet luxury is still at the forefront, while on the other, maximalism begs for even more fashion excitement. Polka dots are appearing on contemporary satin dresses and skirts, and can also be seen in retro aesthetics with fitted tops and flared bottoms, where the XS polka dot size is incredibly popular. But we're also seeing polka dots in a very contemporary version, where they've taken on larger dots, looking particularly striking on fitted crop tops and midi pencil skirts or oversized, irregular dresses.
Summer Fashion 2025 - Polka Dot Dress / Getty ImagesEveryone probably knows the feeling when stores are literally flooded with a new trend in every imaginable form, pattern, and color. So, to avoid falling into a shopping frenzy and filling your wardrobe from edge to edge with polka dot print, it's worth learning early how to wear polka dots in summer, and beyond.
One of the most important elements is definitely the choice of color. Polka dots look great on black, brown, navy, or red fabrics, so a garment in these colors with white polka dots can be fashionable for more than one season. However, those looking for more than just polka dots in polka dots can choose scaled patterns, for example, on shiny turquoise fabrics. Then, black polka dots will truly look phenomenal!
Summer Fashion 2025 - Polka Dot Style / Getty ImagesYes, you can go for a head-to-toe polka dot look! A fitted polka dot vest or corset paired with a skirt is one of this summer's biggest trends. Paired with flip-flops or heeled mules, they'll only enhance the overall look.
2. Half and half peasIf the pea print might be a bit overwhelming, choose a half-and-half version. A smooth, subdued light top and a bold pea skirt , or a pea shirt and a light, light skirt will soften the look.
3. Polka dots as a detailThis print also works well as a simple accent piece. A minimalist outfit with wide-leg jeans and a white top, complemented by polka-dot shoes or a silk scarf, worn both on the head and around the neck, is a perfect blend of contemporary trends and a timeless aesthetic.
Fashionable styles for summer 2025 - polka dot scarf / Getty ImagesIt's hard to ignore 1950s-style dresses . Their "magic" is truly captivating! Short, flared skirts, fitted tops, and polka dots in every imaginable form. You can choose spectacular dresses literally "pulled" from the mid-20th century. Paired with a straw basket and flip-flops, they'll look phenomenal.
Summer 2025 Fashion - Retro Polka Dot Dress / Getty ImagesCombining polka dot prints with modern cuts can create a truly spectacular effect. In this case, sets consisting of, for example, a skirt and a shirt or jacket work particularly well. Contemporary aesthetics absorb timeless designs like a sponge, creating a spectacular effect. Stylists also suggest combining polka dots with... polka dots. Small dots with bold ones, and in inverted colors.
Summer 2025 Fashion - Polka Dots in the Main Role / Getty Images
