The polka dot dress has been having a moment. 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 spring/summer runways, from Altuzarra to Dries Van Noten.
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 royal engagements.
- The chocolate brown editor's pick: Reiss Polka-Dot Cut-Out Midi Dress, £218 / $398
- The white editor's pick: M&S Pure Cotton Polka Dot Ruffle Midi Dress, £42 / $82.99
- The pink editor's pick: Nobody's Child Polka Dot Dress, £88 / $168
- The black editor's pick: Mango Polka Dot Dress, £49.99 / $118
- The designer editor's pick: DÔEN Emerence Polka-Dot Silk-Blend Dress, £490 / $450
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. She was pictured in this white midi dress at Westminster Abbey's VE Day service in May 2025, and previously wore the same dress at the Order of the Garter Ceremony in July 2023.
The Princess of Wales has also worn polka dot dresses in black and navy as well as brighter colours, stepping out in this azure blue midi at the 2022 Wimbledon finals and a black Emilia Wickstead piece in summer 2020.
© Neil Mockford
© BBCIn summer 2024, Demi Moore looked stunning in a white polka dress by Elie Saab to attend the premiere of her movie The Substance at Cannes Film Festival. She styled the plunging piece with black sunglasses, pointed Aquazzura pumps and her dog, Pilaf, in tow.
© Getty ImagesAlexandra Leclerc proved a bright polka dot dress can look so chic when she wore one by Posse to support her husband at the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco in June. She styled it with a white Roger Vivier crochet clutch and matching Aquazzura Bisous mules.
© WireImageHow 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 budget to designer.
The best polka dot dresses to shop this season
Nobody's Child Polka Dot Dress
Editor's Note:
If you're looking for a polka dot dress in a bright colour, I love this pink style from Nobody's Child. It's cut with a bandeau neckline and comes with detachable spaghetti straps so you can wear it in two different ways.
M&S Pure Cotton Polka Dot Ruffle Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
Made from pure cotton and cut with a floaty skirt, this M&S midi is the ultimate day to night heatwave dress. It's finished with frill detail.
Reiss Polka-Dot Cut-Out Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
I love Reiss for timeless pieces (as do the royals) and on my wish list is this chocolate brown polka dot midi dress, which has playful cut-out details. Also featuring contrasting binding, a high neckline and a front split, it's beautiful for any spring or summer occasion.
Rixo Amy Silk Dress
Editor's Note:
Made from luxurious silk crepe de chine, Rixo's powder blue polka dot dress is perfect for any summer occasion. It features the brands signature bias cut and a low open back.
River Island Polka Dot Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
I love a blue and brown colour clash, and this River Island polka dot midi will see you through every more formal occasion this summer. It features a high neck and a trending godet skirt.
Reformation Sabine Linen Dress
Editor's Note:
Reformation has so many cute polka dot dresses, it's hard to choose just one. With its classic cut featuring a square neckline, midi length and comfortable smocked back, this is a style you'll wear year after year. It's made from pure linen, so it's ideal for summer.
Mango Polka Dot Dress
Editor's Note:
For a new season style in black, Mango just dropped this lace-trimmed polka dot dress. Falling to a midi length, with delicate adjustable straps and a side slit, it's so chic in the warm weather.
DÔEN Emerence Polka-Dot Silk-Blend Dress
Editor's Note:
Made from a buttery silk-blend with a chic boat neckline framed by delicate ruffles, this polka dot midi dress by royal-favourite brand DÔEN is so beautiful for summer.
Topshop Ruffle Shoulder Amalfi Slip Dress
Editor's Note:
If you're shopping for an upcoming formal event, I love Topshop's chiffon polka dot maxi, which features a scoop neck, ruffle details, and a bra-friendly cut-out back.
