Polka dots are summer's biggest trend. Here are 32 stylist-approved pieces to wear

CNN

10 hours ago

Polka-dot outfit quick picks
Breezy sundress: Brovave Boho Sundress
Heart-adorned top: Reformation Joelle Top
Boho skirt: Madewell Smocked-Waist Midi Skirt in Shibori Dot Print
Retro bathing suit: J.Crew Gemma Ruched Bandeau One-Piece
Everyday crossbody: Kate Spade Devin Breezy Dot Double-Zip Dome Crossbody Step aside, floral prints, because polka dots are the reigning print for summer fashion.
While polka dots may not have necessarily vanished from our closets entirely, there's no doubt the print is everywhere in stores this summer in some fresh, modernized takes on the traditional pattern. 'What makes polka dots so timeless is that they've been iconic since the 1920s, yet they continue to evolve with every decade,' said Michaela Leitz, a personal stylist and size-inclusive fashion expert. 'Right now, we're witnessing a return to more personal, expressive dressing — and polka dots offer the perfect balance between vintage charm and modern energy.'
To help you find the best polka-dot outfit options for the warmer weather, I tapped four stylists to share their favorite picks and tips on how to wear the pattern this season (hint: you can mix and match different polka-dotted pieces!). Whether you're on the hunt for comfy dresses, breezy shorts or resort-ready handbags for a more subtle way to wear the print, we've got you covered from head to toe. And while we didn't include any 'Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka-Dot Bikinis,' our stylists rounded up some polka-dotted swimwear with more coverage so you can still channel the nostalgic song poolside this summer.
The Occasion by Old Navy Satin Cowl Maxi Dress
Old Navy is making an elevated comeback now that designer Zac Posen is its Chief Creative Officer. Leitz is a fan of this slip dress from the brand's "The Occasion" line. She said it's "light, simple and wonderful for hot summer nights." Plus, it has an extensive size range from XS to 4X.
Reformation Calix Polka Dot Crepe Minidress
According to stylist and personal brand coach Ellie Steinbrink, polka dots will always be in style, and summer is a great time to incorporate some pieces into your wardrobe — but you don't always have to go the traditional route. "If black and white aren't your colors, there are plenty of amazing polka-dot pieces in other colors right now! Some others I am loving are chocolate browns, rust and also blues," she said.
Brovave Boho Sundress
I'm loving this gorgeous shade of green for a colorful spin on standard black and white polka dots. It's an effortless piece to slip on for brunch or a day at the park, or with a denim jacket for those chillier summer nights.
Gap Mesh Mini Dress
Gab Saper, stylist and founder of Wardrobe Editor, vouches for this short mesh polka-dot dress that keeps things cool during those humid days commuting to the office. We love that it comes in regular, tall and petite sizes.
Charles Henry Polka Dot Empire-Waist Cotton Dress
Avoid going too literal with polka dots by enlisting this ultra-dainty option into your summer rotation. I love the more muted color combo and that the print is super small, so it's ideal for those not wanting to stand out too much. Plus, the empire waist and plunging neckline give a flattering fit.
Asos Curve Cowl-Neck Minidress With Contrast Hem
Saper loves this flirty dress, which offers a bit of surprise with the contrast ruffle hem. It's perfect for a daytime summer party or a more casual wedding reception.
Petal and Pup Kailana Midi Dress
If you're looking for a longer summer dress, Steinbrink likes this corset tie-back option that'll show off your fresh tan and give you a more custom fit.
Alex Mill Flora Dress in Dot
Looking for something blue? Steinbrink also gives this sleek dress her stamp of approval. Fun fact according to the brand's website: 'The polka dots were inspired by a vintage silk scarf we found on an inspiration trip in Paris.' The print also comes in a skirt style.
Aritzia Mabel Dress
Say hello to the staple dress you'll reach for again and again. This flowy number, which offers a comfy fit-and-flare design and smocked waist, is just what you've been looking for. It's ultra lightweight, so it's ideal for those humid days commuting to the office. Extend its use by pairing it with a leather jacket in the fall.
Reformation Noha Dress
A retro-meets-edgy pick from Saper, this Reformation piece is just the dress for a night out on the town or daytime activities alike. The side slit pumps up the edge too.
The Occasion by Old Navy High-Waisted Taffeta Midi Skirt
Steinbrink and Saper are also fans of Old Navy's more sophisticated line. They both love this statement-making (and affordable!) skirt from the brand, which also has a matching top if you're looking for a bold look for a summer soirée.
Old Navy Maternity A-Line Midi Skirt
If you're pregnant this summer, that doesn't mean you can't join in on the trends. This skirt gets Leitz's approval because she said it's "comfortable, playful and made to move with you."
Boden Isabella Cotton Sateen Skirt
This dramatic cotton skirt Leitz and Saper love is giving all the Carrie Bradshaw vibes. Leitz said it's "perfect for going fully eclectic with other patterns or keeping it simple with a solid top." It comes in petite and regular options, and sizes 0 to 20/22.
Madewell Smocked-Waist Midi Skirt in Shibori Dot Print
For a more laid-back, boho-inspired version of polka dots, Liz Teich, a New York-based fashion stylist, style creator and on-air style expert, recommends this effortless skirt.
J.Crew Cotton Voile Beach Short in Polka-Dot Print
If you want to just dip your toes into the polka-dot trend, a bathing suit cover-up is a safe way to go. These shorts made Teich's list of polka-dot favorites, and there's even a navy version if you don't want something see-through.
Ann Taylor Dotted Ponte Cap-Sleeve Top
This Leitz-approved top is a classic option that'll never go out of style. Plus, the cap sleeves allow for airflow and are perfect for those sweltering summer days.
Reformation Joelle Top
For a fun, modern twist on classic polka dots, opt for this heart-adorned top from Reformation that made Steinbrink's list of favorites. Pair it with denim for a more dressed-down look or trousers for the office.
Aokosor Summer Top
Not into polka dots that can be "spotted" (see what I did there?) from a mile away? I love this casual tee that rings up at just $10 and features mesh sleeves accented with subtle dots in a more abstract pattern. The coral shade couldn't be more perfect for summer.
Eloquii Bow Blouse With Flutter Sleeve
This size-inclusive blouse is one that Leitz personally owns and wears on repeat. If you're looking to strike a balance between professional and fun, this style ticks all the boxes.
Anne Klein Plus-Size Sutton Dot-Printed Faux Wrap Top
If you're looking for a little more coverage, Leitz recommends this versatile, easy-to-wear option that works just as well with jeans as it does slacks. Plus, we love the wrap design for tummy coverage.
Abercrombie & Fitch The A&F Bella Tie-Front Cami
Add a dose of romance to traditional polka dots with this lace-accented top that I've had my eyes on. Pair it with the matching skirt if you really want to commit to the trend. It also comes in an earthier brown and pink version if you want a more unexpected color combo.
J.Crew Gemma Ruched Bandeau One-Piece
With summer in full swing, freshening up your swimwear collection with a polka-dotted one-piece is a no-brainer way to adopt the trend. This swimsuit offers a flattering fit thanks to the ruched midsection. Plus, it's the perfect way to channel your inner Audrey Hepburn poolside.
Holipick Strapless One-Piece Swimsuit in Black and White Dot
This feminine swimsuit from Amazon offers more coverage and has removable straps for a more custom fit. I love the two-tone polka-dot pattern, which offers a bit more dimension than a singular color.
J.Crew Ruched One-Shoulder One-Piece
J. Crew was a crowd favorite among the experts for polka-dot swimsuits, particularly ruched versions. Leitz loves that this one comes in sizes 0 to 24 and a long torso option for a more custom fit.
Target Wild Fable Women's Bow-Front Triangle Bikini
Steinbrink likes this brown bikini set that comes out to $30 for the set.
Sea Paulina Polka-Dot One-Piece
If you're looking to splurge on a new suit for long days at the beach, Teich likes this one that boasts a ruffled top for some extra flair. The two-tone design offers a bit of unexpected contrast that makes it a bit more visually interesting.
Keds Champion Point Low Canvas Polka-Dot Lace-Up
"These bring such a playful twist to a classic silhouette," said Leitz. Her favorite part? The pointed toe draws attention to your feet in the best way possible.
Sam Edelman Bianka Polka-Dot Mesh Slingback Pump
Heading to a wedding this summer? Slip into these mesh heels, which get Steinbrink's stamp of approval. We love the black-on-black look for a more under-the-radar way to wear polka dots.
Loft Dotted Ankle-Strap Ballet Flats
Slip into these Saper-loved ballet flats for work. We love the chain detail that's basically jewelry for your feet.
Melie Bianco Maisel Faux Leather Top-Handle Bag
Afraid to dive into a full polka-dot ensemble? Try starting small with this charming bag that Saper recommends. It also comes in black and white if you don't want something that pops as much.
Kate Spade Devin Breezy Dot Double-Zip Dome Crossbody
Steinbrink vouches for this darling little crossbody made of durable saffiano leather. Leitz also recommends a nearly identical version of this bag at the Kate Spade outlet for under $100.
Kate Spade Seasonless Dot Silk Bandana Scarf
Another trend we're loving? Ascots. Tie things together (literally) with one of these polka-dotted silk scarves that Steinbrink loves, which comes in three color-contrasting designs that'll make a classic white tee instantly look more chic. Just like history, fashion tends to repeat itself. From Minnie Mouse to Lucille Ball to Julia Roberts in 'Pretty Woman,' polka dots have been part of many iconic wardrobes over time, and their recent popularity comes as no surprise, said Saper. 'When the world feels scary and uncertain, we reach for what feels familiar and what brings us joy. Our familiarity with polka dots makes them comforting and their playful design and associations makes us happy,' she said.
Coming off the heels of more minimalist trends, it was time for something bolder and more playful to take their place. 'Polka dots evoke energy, optimism and fun,' said Saper. 'Their high-contrast is attention-grabbing, the perfect antidote to the sea of neutrals we've been swimming in.'
The following FAQs were answered by Michaela Leitz, a size-inclusive fashion expert; Gab Saper, stylist and founder of Wardrobe Editor; Ellie Steinbrink, stylist and personal brand coach; and Liz Teich, a New York-based fashion stylist, style creator and on-air style expert.
Can you mix and match polka dots?
Can you mix and match polka dots?
The experts all agreed that you can mix and match polka dots, but with a few tips to keep in mind. It's important to consider the scale and color of the polka dots when coordinating components of your outfit. Saper said to make sure the patterns you're wearing — whether that's polka dots, stripes or florals — are the same or extremely different in order to look intentional. 'A penny-sized polka dot mixed with a quarter-sized polka dot? Feels like you tried to match and it didn't work. A penny-sized polka dot mixed with a grapefruit-sized polka dot? Absolutely, yes,' she said.
If you're mixing two patterns, such as stripes with polka dots, Saper said scale isn't as much of an issue since they're already different. When it comes to the colors you choose when wearing different patterns on the top and bottom, she said each piece should have at least two of the same colors to ensure they work together. 'If you're wearing a black, white and yellow floral skirt, with a black, white and red polka dot top, it will work. If you're wearing a black, white and yellow floral skirt, with a navy blue and brown polka dot skirt … people will have questions,' she said.
With most rules, there's always an exception. Saper said at the end of the day, if you love your look and it defies this guidance, go for it!
What colors can you mix with polka dots?
What colors can you mix with polka dots?
If you're new to wearing polka dots or bold patterns, it's always a safe bet to pair the pattern with a solid-colored piece, though Steinbrink said you don't have to be boring when it comes to polka dots. 'Many people assume you need to wear neutrals with polka dots, but you can absolutely mix it with color,' she said. Teich and Saper both recommend mixing a classic black and white polka-dotted piece with a solid red piece if you're not sure where to start.
Steinbrink added that it's a good idea to lean into colors that work for you and represent your personal style. 'If you love the clean look of black and white polka dots, but black isn't a color that works for your skin tone, you can consider wearing it on the bottom, or in accessories like shoes or handbags.'
What size polka dot should you choose if you want to go bold?
What size polka dot should you choose if you want to go bold?
In short, the bigger the polka dot, the larger the statement. If you're not looking to be the center of attention, Steinbrink recommends opting for small dots. She said, 'You can even look for a piece that uses textures like Swiss dot, embroidery or cutouts to give the illusion of polka dots, without contrasting colors.'
If you want to accentuate a specific part of your body, Saper said to wear a polka-dotted piece to highlight that area. 'Love your legs? Try a big polka skirt or skinny pant. Want to show off your décolletage and chest? A large-scale polka-dot top with a lower neckline will bring the attention,' she said. If you don't want to flaunt a certain area, refrain from wearing a bold print like polka dots.
Is it better to wear polka dots on the bottom or top?
Is it better to wear polka dots on the bottom or top?
According to Leitz, it depends on where you want to draw the eye. 'If you love your neckline or shoulders, choose a blouse with an off-the-shoulder cut and a strong dot pattern up top,' she said. 'Polka dots are playful, but they're also a visual tool, so use them intentionally.'
Teich added that it's a good idea to do a color analysis with a professional, which will determine if you can wear high-contrast patterns and what colors look best on you. If you are a high-contrast person, she said you can wear polka dots on top. If bold patterns don't work for you, she said to opt for a top with a lower neckline, smaller polka dots or polka-dotted bottoms.
For this article, we consulted the following experts to gain their professional insights on the polka dot trend for summer.
Michaela Leitz, personal stylist and size-inclusive fashion expert
Gap Saper, stylist and founder of Wardrobe Editor
Ellie Steinbrink, stylist and personal brand coach
Liz Teich, a New York-based fashion stylist, style creator and on-air style expert
CNN Underscored has a team of skilled writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when applicable to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this article, senior lifestyle editor Tamara Kraus interviewed four fashion experts on the best polka-dot pieces to wear this summer, along with tips on how to wear the trending pattern.