Polka dots are a familiar and classic pattern that we see in varying degrees every season. The playful print is having a fashion moment so we’ll be seeing lots of dots. They’re showing up in casual, dressier, and formal clothes. Also in socks, underwear, workout wear, swimwear, scarves, handbags, jewellery, co-ords, and footwear.
Polka dots carry a sense of whimsical and retro charm, but in 2026 they seem more elevated and sophisticated. Less cutesy and more serious. More “grown-up” for lack of a better way of describing it. For the most part, polka dot patterns are neutral and two-toned. Many of them are very small in scale. Black and white polka dots reign supreme. There are also navy and white, earth tones and white, and other colour combinations.
Unexpected pattern scales, an elegant touch, and innovative fabrics refresh the playful pattern. The collection below showcases some examples.
Polka dots are great at setting the mood of an outfit. The simple geometric pattern can be as minimalist as it can be maximalist, depending on the details. Polka dots are versatile and therefore easy to remix into a wardrobe. Oversized dots make a bold and graphic statement. Micro dots can give items a textured and luxe feeling. Asymmetrical dot placements add a contemporary edge. And some dots are small enough to look like a solid and function like a false plain.
Patterns, like colours, are extremely personal and we can be very moody about them. What is eye candy to one person is poison eye to another. Some people enjoy polka dots, and some don’t. Some enjoy a particular type of polka dot. Some will wear polka dots in certain wardrobe items, but not others. I believe that there’s a polka dot for every person because they can very subtle or bold.
Personally, I bat for Team Polka Dots and always have them in my wardrobe. There is something inherently cheerful about polka dots, and I don’t tire of them. I’m particularly fond of their trendy elevation this year. I like them two-toned and best in navy and white, although I’ll wear polka dots combined with white and another colour. I also like self-colour polka dots that are textured. I’ll wear just about any size polka dot, and am open to the pattern in most wardrobe items. Asymmetrical polka dot placements are fab, and hubs Greg bats for Team Polka Dot Collared Shirts and Socks.
Over to you. What do you think of the elevated polka dot trend?
