The divisive nature of polka dots dates back to the Middle Ages: In a time before sewing machines made equally spaced spots possible, people avoided the pattern like the not-so-metaphorical plague because it reminded them of disease. It may no longer be a harbinger of illness, but the print remains alienating today.
All that said—whether you like it or not—the spotty pattern is back in a big way this season. And fresh takes from the spring/summer 2025 runways are anything but cutesy: from 3D dots at Prabal Gurung and speckled shorts at Paloma Wool to graphic outerwear at Jacquemus. Dresses remain the most classic way to showcase the playful print—with plenty of iterations from designers like Carolina Herrera and Rodarte. So if you’re a skeptic about this trend’s return, we’re starting there in our attempt to convince you otherwise.
Off the catwalk, a similarly vast array of polka-dotted options awaits: Choose between jaunty minis, elegant midis, or sweeping floor-grazing styles. Our favorites include standout features (like a color-blocked palette, drop waist, or asymmetric hem) that keep them feeling elevated. Shop our edit of the best polka dot dresses ahead, and let us change your mind.
The Minis
From park picnics to lazy weekend lunches, you’ll want to keep a few mini dresses in your rotation for easy wear. Whether you gravitate toward breezy silhouettes, like Damson Madder’s lemon-colored smock, or prefer a bit more structure, like Ganni’s drop-waist corset style, introduce pattern into the mix with a polka dot print. (For the office, the long-sleeved Ronny Kobo pick offers polish with a shorter hemline.)
Ganni Polka-Dot Corset Mini Dress
Wayf Darcy Dot Sleeveless Dress
Lovaan Val Ruched Mini Dress
Ronny Kobo Carlotta Tie Minidress
Damson Madder Lilo Mini Dress
The Midis
Silvia Tcherassi’s satin halter-neck and Reformation’s tailored style show just how much range exists within the midi silhouette. Our favorite pieces can be dressed up with kitten heels and splashier accessories for formal fêtes but work equally well as resort wear for that long-awaited holiday.
J.Crew Crinkle Side-Tie Dress
Zara Polka Dot Halter Dress
Reformation Michelle Dress
Silvia Tcherassi Guadalupe Printed Halter Dress
Self Portrait Polka Dot Midi Dress
The Maxis
And then there are those occasions that call for something fancy. Any one of these longer gowns will do the trick, whether you have a black-tie wedding on the calendar or simply take your vacation dress code very (very) seriously. We love the bright colors from Elisamama and Bode. For peak sophistication, the unconventional take on polka dots from Nina Ricci will definitely be memorable.
Nina Ricci Draped Polka Dot Gown
Mango Flared Long Sleeve Dress
Posse Paloma Polka-Dot Dress
Asceno Riviera Ibiza Dress
