To paraphrase Miranda Priestly, ‘Polka dots? For Spring? Groundbreaking.’ True, polka dots are a tried and tested pattern that, much like check or leopard print, never truly go out of style. But we’re loving the resurgence of the pretty spotty print in 2020 for several reasons. One is that in 2020, we’re trying to shop more responsibly and ethically, and reviving old styles is a great way of revamping existing items while remaining on trend. It’s very likely that you already have some polka dots hanging in your wardrobe, just waiting for a new lease of life.

The other reason we’re embracing the humble polka dot this year is that designers have taken the pattern in really fun, playful directions. Even if you can’t afford to shell out the big bucks for the designer versions, it’s worth examining how creative geniuses have breathed new life into this trend. Richard Quinn used polka dots to emphasise his exaggerated, doll-like silhouettes, sending polka dot dresses down the runway with exaggerated, puffed shoulders and large bows.

Balenciaga also played with silhouette, embracing the large shoulders of ’80s officewear, and taking those shoulderpads to new heights in their one-colour polka dot ensembles. Paco Rabane clashed polka dots with graphic heart prints and floral boots, and layered sheer material with different-sized polka dots to create a billowing effect. Gucci brought polka dot to menswear, embracing the ’70s silhouette of straight jackets, sharp lapels, and wide legged, cuffed trousers, all in glorious polka dot. Hey, if Harry Styles can rock the ’70s style, so can you. Dries Van Noten showed us how to do glimpses of polka dot with gorgeous bags and shoes, bringing a touch of the fun trend into her ensembles.

Be inspired by these new takes on a classic trend and play with your polka dots. Mix and match dots with clashing patterns such as stripes, florals or animal print to add interest and a modern edge to a traditional print. Interesting silhouettes are key, too, so look for exaggerated shoulders, asymmetrical hems, and sheer tops and overskirts than can be layered with other pieces to add textural and visual interest.
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