The polka dot dress has been having a moment recently. Over the last few years, the Princess of Wales has stepped out in many polka dot pieces, particularly by Alessandra Rich, and they were all over the autumn/winter runways, from Altuzarra to Vivienne Westwood.
The timeless style is elegant but playful, statement but effortless, sophisticated but fun, which could explain the royal's unwavering penchant for the print.
Its history goes way back, first peaking in popularity in the 1920s, before another boom in the 1950s thanks to the likes of Lucille Ball and Marilyn Monroe.
It's also a favourite of Queen Letizia of Spain, who's worn several polka dot dresses while out on engagements.
- The black editor's pick: Nobody's Child Polka Dot Lupin Midi Dress, £139 / $266
- The white editor's pick: Hobbs Mia Spot Dress, £189 / $425
- The navy editor's pick: Boden Pip Zip-Up Ponte Midi Dress, £139 / $199
- The halterneck editor's pick: Rixo Abi Polka Dot Dress, £295 / $425
- The designer editor's pick: Alessandra Rich Pleated Silk Midi Dress, £1,493 / $1,550
Royals & celebrities wearing polka dot dresses
Princess Kate has been seen in so many polka dot dresses by Alessandra Rich, the two could collaborate on their own collection. Most recently, she was pictured in this white midi dress at Westminster Abbey's VE Day service in May 2025. She previously wore the same dress at the Order of the Garter Ceremony in July 2023, and she wore a very similar style to Royal Ascot in 2022.
© Neil MockfordThe Princess of Wales has also worn polka dot dresses in brighter colours, stepping out in this azure blue midi at the 2022 Wimbledon finals. She later recycled the look at a summer party in London to celebrate the NHS.
© Carlos R. AlvarezQueen Letizia looked beautiful wearing an elegant Carolina Herrera white polka dot dress in Bailen in 2019. Falling to a midi length, it featured a coordinating wrap waist belt.
Like Kate, the Spanish royal has also been spotted in a powder blue polka dot number. She was pictured wearing one to celebrate National Armed Forces Day with her husband King Felipe VI in 2022.
© @catdeeleyEarlier this year, Cat Deeley, the host of This Morning, wore a polka dot dress by Sosandar to present the show. She looked stunning, styling the ruffled hem, long blouson sleeve midi with a belt to cinch her waist.
How I chose the best polka dot dresses
- New-in: You'll find all of the best new season polka dot dresses on the high street in this edit.
- Variety: I've included a range of casual and more formal pieces, so there's something for every occasion.
- Price: There are also options to suit a range of budgets, from £34 at ASOS to £1,550 at NET-A-PORTER.
The best polka dot dresses to shop this season
Nobody's Child Polka Dot Lupin Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
With its chic square neckline, spaghetti straps and A-line shape, Nobody's Child's new black polka dot dress is super versatile and comfortable enough to wear day and night.
Hobbs Mia Spot Dress
Editor's Note:
A chic evening style, Hobbs’ Mia dress has a fit-and-flare silhouette with a satin finish and a beautiful drape. I love the elegant bow back detail.
Boden Pip Zip-Up Ponte Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
Made from a soft jersey fabric and cut with a structured shape and concealed zip-up front, this polka dot midi dress from Boden is the ultimate office piece for autumn 2025. Plus it has pockets.
Reformation Naira Dress
Editor's Note:
Reformation's royal-worthy Naira dress has a modest cut and a vintage feel. It features an all-over polka dot print, short puff sleeves and a long relaxed skirt.
M&S Square Neck Mini Waisted Dress
Editor's Note:
Marks & Spencer's polka dot mini dress has quickly become a bestseller thanks to its flattering waisted silhouette and stylish square neckline. It features added stretch in the fabric for comfort and fastens with a zip at the back.
Rixo Abi Polka Dot Dress
Editor's Note:
Princess Kate owns several dresses from Rixo, and I think she would love this navy halterneck. It features a scarf-style neckline and tiered skirt.
Phase Eight Nicola Spot Dress
Editor's Note:
How pretty is this polka dot dress by Phase Eight? Featuring short puff sleeves and delicate ruffles on the bodice, the pale pink midi is ideal for a wedding or a day at the races.
Abercrombie & Fitch Mila Cap Sleeve Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
Abercrombie's top-rated midi dress is made from their signature stretch-enhanced cotton-blend fabric. It's cut with a figure-skimming bodice, scoop neckline, flattering cap sleeves and a playful skirt.
Alessandra Rich Pleated Polka Dot Silk Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
Crafted from fluid silk, with a classic shirt silhouette and trending drop waist, I think we could see the Princess of Wales wearing this polka dot dress for future royal engagements. It features a bow-detailed neckline and pleated skirt.
Cath Kidston Pink Spot Shirt Dress
© Cath KidstonEditor's Note:
This timeless collared shirt dress features the sweetest button spot print. The pink and black colourway features flattering feminine detailing from the top button placket with a laid on waistband to the gentle box pleats opening into a fit and flare skirt for a classic silhouette.
ASOS DESIGN Chiffon Scarf Mini Dress
Editor's Note:
Wear the scarf dress trend and polka dots in one with this mini from ASOS. The one shoulder style has a chic open back and is perfect for evenings out or holidays away this autumn.
