The Polka Dot Obsession

Lately, I’ve been craving polka dots like never before.

It all started with a pair of spherical earrings I found, and suddenly, I was on the hunt for the perfect polka-dot shirt to pair with them. That’s when the obsession began.

Hand holding a pair of bold statement earrings featuring large white pearls and glossy black beads, set against a black and white polka dot fabric background with a leather detail.

The earrings that started everything.

I catch myself scrolling, searching, and saving all things polka dots. Then one day, Brendon looked at me and said, “What is this obsession with polka dots now?” And that’s when I realized… if he noticed, it’s real! Turns out, I’m not alone. As I continue to search for the perfect polka dot top, I’ve noticed that this trend is quietly making its way back and stealing my heart completely. Let’s dive into this dot-filled moment together.

Ariana Grande in vintage Givenchy polka dots dress

Jennifer Lawrence at the 2024 Oscar wearing polka dots

Dakota Johnson in a polka-dot Ganni dress

NY - February 2025

Polka dots are timeless, fun, and full of joy. I’ve always been drawn to them. There’s something playful and lighthearted about dots that never gets old. Over the years, many designers have featured them in their collections, each bringing a fresh take to this classic pattern. And it’s not just in fashion. Artists like Yayoi Kusama have made polka dots the centerpiece of their work, showing how powerful and expressive something so simple can be.

I first saw Yayoi Kusama’s polka dot installations in person at Inhotim in Brazil; that visit completely deepened my love for dots. You can read more about that moment here. Years later, I rediscovered her work at the new Louis Vuitton store on Fifth Avenue (I wrote about it here). Seeing her dots woven into fashion felt so inspiring. It reminded me why I’m on this hunt for the perfect polka dot top.

How I’m Styling Polka Dots Right Now

Here are a few ways I’ve been playing with polka dots in my own wardrobe:

•⁠ ⁠Pairing dots with solid colors. A classic combo that never fails. A polka dot blouse paired with high-waisted, solid-colored bottoms is effortlessly cute.

•⁠ ⁠Mixing textures. A sheer polka dot top layered over a bralette, or under a blazer, adds interest without being over the top.

•⁠ ⁠Sticking to a color palette. I love finding polka dots in my best colors; it keeps the look polished, even when the pattern is playful.

•⁠ ⁠Adding small touches. If a complete polka dot look feels too bold, try it in accessories like a scarf, bag, or even your earrings (like mine!).

To Get You Inspired

If you're ready to dive into this timeless trend, here are some of my favorite polka dot looks I’ve come across lately. These photos are full of fun, fresh ways to wear polka dots. Subtle touches to bold statements.

Take what speaks to you and make it your own. Dots can be sweet, edgy, romantic, or minimal: it’s all about how you wear them.

You can shop my Polka Dot Lookbook down below! I saved pieces that feel just right for right now.

Are you a polka dot lover too?

What trend have you been loving lately?

Let’s chat in the comments. I always love hearing what’s inspiring you.

 

Ana Harris - Personal Stylist

Color Analysis - Wardrobe Styling

Studio in Fall River, MA - Serving clients from Rhode Island, Boston, and beyond.

@stylebyanaharris

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