Trending 26th February 2025 by Stellar Magazine

On The Dot: The Return Of The Classic Polka Dot

Timeless and classic

via Pexels

As we all may know, patterned pieces are especially popular in the warmer months. In past years it has been animal prints such as leopard, cow, and zebra, but could polka dots be making a comeback?

Previously cemented in the period between the roaring 20s and the retro 50s, polka dots fell out of fashion, but the trend is on the rise again. Appearing in spring/summer fashion shows such as Jacquemus and Acne Studios, polka may be 2025’s biggest trend.

Spring is known for florals and flounce. Bright pops of colour start to make a comeback as the leaves start to change. So far this year, we have seen an influx in polka dots in statement pieces such as bags, tops and skirts. The question remains on whether polka dots will be the newest go-to basic, or if it’s just this season’s fad.

The history of the polka dot takes us back to the late 1700s when the first sewing machine was made. But the trend did not really pick up until the mid 1800s, due to the association of the pattern with uncleanliness, disease, and the plague.

The name ‘polka’ originates from a Czech peasant dance, which took over the nation and made its way into everyday life. The trend however, only stuck when it became known as the iconic repetitive circled pattern we all know and love today.

@allerupaesthetics Polka dots are back – The pattern of 2025 Pin: EmmaAllerup #fyp #foryou #viral #pinterest #aesthetic #trends #fahion ♬ sade x lana – 🎀

The trend began to evolve into what we know it as today further into the 20th century, when people like Norma Smallwood, who won Miss America in 1926, was seen in a polka dotted swimsuit. This was revolutionary at the time, and may have even influenced Disney executives to create the iconic polka dot skirt Minnie Mouse wears.

Fashion icons such as Princess Diana and Marilyn Monroe have been known to love a polka dotted print to make a bold statement. The use of polka dots in media is apparent in the 1990 film Pretty Woman, where main character Vivian Ward (Julia Roberts) wears a brown polka dot dress – flirty, but but also timeless and classic.

In recent years, polka dots have been seen not only on runways but also at award shows – like the polka dotted Dior dress Jennifer Lawrence wore at the 2024 Oscars. Sienna Miller, British American actor opted for a boho chic look at Wimbledon, including a dainty, black and white polka dotted pattern on a flow-y, collared, button-up dress, paired with a white slingback kitten heel.

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Of course, the fashion fad has made it to the mainstream too, appearing in prêt-à-porter brands we know and love. With the print being readily available to all consumers, it’s creeping its way onto summer dresses, scarves, shoes, bags, and even nail art. Is it time to replace the beloved and classic French tip with this funky, retro-inspired pattern?

As Nicky Zimmermann (co-founder and creative director of the eponymous Australian brand) said: “There is something timeless about [polka dots], they never feel outdated, and their versatility can add a modern touch to any piece.”

Here are some of our favs to get you started.