The first time I wore a polka-dot dress was back in 2008, for a school concert. I was the main dancer before I was asked to move to the back because my dress was black with polka-dots of different shades, and not like the others.
It was very pretty, alright. And the dance was not bad. I loved my dress, but apparently my teacher thought otherwise.
For the next few years, the polka-dots became a huge hit. The other polka-dot dress I owned was red with white polka-dots. It was a sleeveless dress, with an empire waistline and a cute collar. I did not like it at first, but my mother insisted on getting that dress, and I had fondness for it. Well, safe to say my mother has style. My third polka- dot dress was back in the 2010s. It was black with white polka-dots. A custom-made, sleeveless dress, cinched at the waist and with a high- low design.
And that was the last time I saw anyone with a polka-dot outfit until it flooded my Instagram feed and all my shopping apps. That’s when it hit me: the POLKA-DOTS are back, and I am all for it.
When did the ‘Polka-dot’ start?
Nothing is complete in my article without a little bit of history.
The origins of the polka dot date back 200 years, in Bohemia. It gained popularity in the 1840s. Thomas Saint, in the 1790s, made symmetrical spots possible with the invention of the sewing machine. The 1800s were when the Western fashion magazine brought the polka dots to the scene.
The 1940s were the height of polka-dot fashion. Marilyn Monroe popularised the polka dots in the 1950s. Her most iconic photoshoot was in 1951 with a polka-dot bikini. Another pioneer of the polka-dot trend in the 1980s was Diana Spencer, Princess of Wales.
The 1990s also birthed the next generation of divas who popularised the polka dots. Julia Roberts was definitely the talk of the age. Her Pretty Woman brown polka-dot dress was to die for.
Dots on the Runway
Polka dots did not just run through the streets; they draped the runway as well. Everyone was smitten by the dainty designs of the polka dots, but who can blame them? After going through the archives, even I was.
Emanuel Ungaro was no stranger to the polka-dot series. His Spring/ Summer 1988, Fall 1988, and Spring/Summer 1989 collections featured timeless polka-dot designs in different colours, styles, and playful silhouettes.
Yves Saint Laurent Spring/ Summer 1991 collection also featured the most alluring polka- dot scenes with mesmerising designs.
Versace Spring/Summer 1994 featured the polka-dots in various designs like the pleated skirts and tailored dresses.
Todd Oldham Spring 1995 collection was even more mesmerising. Heavily dotted patterns on bold colours were another way to attract people into the polka-dot culture.
Marc Jacobs’ Fall 2016 collection took a darker turn with his interpretation of the polka dots. His gothic-Victorian approach was just as haunting, striking and fantastical. It reminded me of Cruella de Vil’s dark allure as well as her fashion sense, though I do not condone her actions.
The Dotted Trend: Celebrities and their style.
The summer this year was filled with polka dots everywhere. Even celebrities hopped on the trend, making the dots effortless and timeless.
Lily James was seen wearing a Doen Emerence polka-dot midi dress with trimmed ruffles at Wimbledon.
Date night in polka-dot attire is definitely a go, just like Gigi Hadid’s dress for her date night with “Mr Limitless” himself, Bradley Cooper.
Lily Collins looks effortlessly stunning during the summer in her navy blue, midi polka-dot dress, paired with a beige straw hat.
Our very own Duchess of Hastings, Phoebe Dynevor, was also spotted in the trending dots with thong sandals. Perfect for summer wear.
And let’s not forget Demi Moore, breaking the monochromatic white dots with a multi-coloured silhouette, totally changing the narrative of the polka dots.
Fashion Showdown: The Spots v. The Prints
Fast forward to today, polka dots are definitely making their comeback, and it is one of the major trends of today. They are making their comeback in footwear, accessories, handbags, dresses and many more. It gave this heat wave a little more life, if you ask me.
It is definitely up there with the ‘Animal Print’. But the hot gossip is: which one is better? The polka-dot or the animal print? Well, readers, you decide which one is better. At the end of it all, it all comes down to personal taste; as for me, the polka-dot is the one to go.
Well, looking at the state of it, seems like the Animal Print is dominating all fronts, mostly because of the exotic vibe it exudes, unlike the polka dot, which I feel is more of a summer thing. But for the ‘no animal print’ girlies, hopping on the polka-dot trend is a one-way ticket to keeping up with the fashion trends. The polka-dot looks and feels lighter, dainty, and retro.
Are the Polka dots A Summer Lover or a Timeless partner?
Trends come and go, and the partial predictability of their comings and goings is also a question. So, will the polka-dots stay for another season or two? It is definitely a question all the ‘polka-dot’ girlies are asking. This summer, the polka-dots were a screaming sensation and a lover for many. So, maybe let’s take the trend to the next stage. Experimentation is more than just child’s play; it builds a new model- in this case, another statement look. Why not play and pair the polka dots with each item of clothing for this autumn and winter season?
The polka dots are definitely a major uproar, and maybe this time, I shall keep the outfits I buy.
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