Few prints are as joyously nostalgic yet enduringly timeless as polka dots. With origins tracing back to 19th-century Europe, where the playful motif first emerged in textiles and dance costumes, the polka dot has long danced its way in and out of fashion’s spotlight.
Its name nods to the polka dance craze, though the connection is more rhythmic than literal. From Marilyn Monroe’s flirty halternecks to Princess Diana’s demure day dresses, the print has long exuded feminine flair with a hint of ditsy whimsy.
In cinema, polka dots have cemented their status as a visual shorthand for charm, innocence, and playful sensuality. Think of Julia Roberts’ iconic brown-and-white polka dot dress at the polo match in Pretty Woman, a moment that catapulted the print into 90s fashion lore. Or Audrey Hepburn’s dotted ensembles in Sabrina and Funny Face, which epitomised mid-century elegance. Even Minnie Mouse’s red polka dot bow has become a global symbol of sweetly chic style - proof of the pattern’s enduring cultural resonance.
© Getty ImagesDesigners have repeatedly fallen for its charm. Dolce & Gabbana, in particular, have embraced polka dots as a house signature, channelling Mediterranean glamour through bold black-and-white iterations that evoke vintage Italian screen sirens. Marc Jacobs and Carolina Herrera have also woven the dot into their brand DNA, proving its remarkable versatility - equally at home on haute couture and street style.
© Getty ImagesToday, polka dots are enjoying a full-blown renaissance. On the SS25 runways, designers dotted everything from floaty chiffon gowns to structured tailoring and knitwear, reimagined in oversized scales, metallic finishes and unexpected colourways. No longer relegated to retro nostalgia, polka dots now signal a playful, expressive femininity. In the fashion world’s endless cycle, the dot, it seems, is having its moment - again.
Discover the most iconic polka dot moments in cinema history below and flick back through time via the perfectly preppy print.
Most iconic polka dot looks from cinema history:
Pretty Woman
This iconic brown polka dot dress was worn by Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman (1990) during the famed polo match scene. Designed in classic vintage style with a 1950s cut, it symbolises Vivian's transformation - one of the most celebrated character arches of rom-com history.
Mean Girls
Faux Louis Vuitton Pochettes, heart-printed mini skirts, pink cashmere and Malibu blonde blow-outs - The Plastics' style took on a whole new sartorial cachet following the release of Mean Girls in 2004. Regina George was even partial to a sweet polka dot - reinforcing her status as a Y2K onscreen icon.
Grease
Rizzo's statement red prom dress in Grease epitomised 1950s fashion with its bold hue, fitted bodice, and full skirt with large polka dots. The look captured Rizzo’s rebellious yet feminine spirit, standing out among softer pastel tones worn by her fellow Pink Ladies.
Pretty in Pink
Molly Ringwald’s polka dot dress in Pretty in Pink (1986) was designed to reflect her character Andie’s thriftiness. The dress was handmade from two vintage gowns, showcasing 1980s DIY fashion trends. Its pink colour and polka dot pattern paid homage to 1950s influences - a spotted style statement.
The Seven Year Itch
A vision in polka dots, Marilyn Monroe dazzled in a flirty, cinched-waist dress during The Seven Year Itch’s quieter moments. Overshadowed by the legendary white halter, this look boasted a figure-kissing silhouette, a playful print, and a feline hourglass cut.
The Princess Diaries
If you started singing: "Stupid Cupid you're a real mean guy," when this image popped up on your screen, you're not alone. Mandy Moore's bullyish (yet admittedly stylish) character Lana Thomas proved that polka dots reigned supreme during her musical number in the iconic rom-com hit from 2001.
Do Not Disturb
Doris Day's polka dotted pussybow look from Do Not Disturb (1965) stylishly summed up the actress' timeless charm and onscreen magic. Paired with a hat and a champagne glass (the chicest accessory), the costume radiated retro allure with a touch of modesty à la mode.
Priscilla
Priscilla Presley's wardrobe was saturated in elegance, think baby blue satin, mini shift dressed and frothy nightgowns that oozed vintage Sixties appeal. In Priscilla (2023), actress Cailee Spaeny appeared deck out in dots in one scene, a nod to the costume of the era and rock 'n' roll glamour.
Mean Girls
Another Mean Girls moment that is very much worthy of mention. Tina Fey, who played maths teacher Ms Norbury, may not have been a leading fashion figure in the cult film, but subtly nodded to Y2K palettes with her polka dotted blouse that merged scholastic-chic with early Aughts trends.
Grease
Last but not least, another moment of Fifties glamour from Grease. This polka dot puff sleeve number, worn by Frenchie in the final scene of the film, perfectly encapsulated the fit 'n' flare style of dress silhouettes at the time. Further proof that polka dots and cinema go together like ramma-lamma-lamma-ka-dingity-da-dinga-dong.
