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 black editor's pick: M&S Polka Dot Midi Waisted Dress, £48 / $93.99
- The white editor's pick: DÔEN Emerence Polka-Dot Silk-Blend Dress, £490 / $450
- The navy editor's pick: Reformation Camella Dress, £348 / $348
- The chocolate brown editor's pick: Reiss Polka-Dot Cut-Out Midi Dress, £218 / $398
- The mini editor's pick: Sézane Angèle Dress, £115 / $150
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 affordable to designer.
The best polka dot dresses to shop this season
M&S Polka Dot Midi Waisted Dress
Editor's Note:
Marks & Spencer's polka dot midi dress will take you from the summer heatwaves through to winter. The ultimate day-to-night dress, it gets five-star reviews for its flattering and comfortable fit.
Mint Velvet Cream Polka Dot Mini Dress
Editor's Note
For a mini dress that's still suitable for more formal occasions or even the office, this is gorgeous from Mint Velvet. It's cut with short ruffle sleeves, a ruffle hemline, and pin-tuck detail.
Rixo Izzy Shirt Dress
Editor's Note:
Princess Kate has worn this exact Rixo dress in several different prints, and I love this new polka dot style with sweet strawberry motifs. It looks just as good dressed down with trainers as it does dressed up with stiletto sandals.
Nobody's Child Polka Dot Hartley Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
From the backless cut with delicate straps to the square neckline and drop waist, I'm obsessed with this polka dot dress from Nobody's Child. It's the perfect late summer/early autumn occasionwear.
Reformation Camella Dress
Editor's Note:
Reformation has so many gorgeous polka dot dresses, it's hard to choose just one. With its chic cut featuring a boat neckline, drop waist and midi length, this is a style you'll wear year after year. It's made from a lightweight, sheer georgette fabric, so it's ideal for summer.
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 summer (or autumn) occasion.
Sezane Angèle Dress
For a mini dress you'll bring out every summer, I love this one from Sezane. Made from organic cotton, it's super soft and breathable, and it's so easy to style. I love it paired with strappy sandals and a raffia bag.
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.
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.
