Whether large or small, featured in the most varied patterns and on any item of clothing or accessory, polka dots remain one of the constants of women's clothing. They can be chosen in a myriad of color variations to show off a "polka dot" total look or combined with monochromatic elements to create highly original outfits.
From season to season, the polka dot pattern reconfirms itself as a great classic, a touch of retro and elegant style: let's discover, together with Artigli, how to wear polka dots, the distinctive print in vogue since the 50s and with a timeless charm.
Polka dot pattern: from origins to success
The success of the polka dot print began a long time ago: in the 1920s, the Miss America of the time was immortalized in a shot that went around the world: the beautiful girl was wearing a daring polka dot swimsuit.
The history of polka dots continued thanks to Walt Disney and the famous character Minnie, who showed off a red and white polka dot dress completed by an enormous bow, which became iconic. Subsequently, the polka dot print, also known by the term “polka dot”, began to be used on fabrics and worn by the pin-ups of the 50s: among the many divas passionate about this pattern, the very elegant Brigitte Bardot stands out, appearing in iconic images of the era in refined skirts studded with polka dots.
Decades pass and polka dots remain one of the key prints of the female wardrobe, a symbol of timeless elegance: it is impossible to forget the polka dot suits worn by the style icon Lady Diana, who showcased colorful polka dots of different sizes on dresses and accessories, such as her signature hats.
Polka dots on the runway and in the cinema: inspirations
To create a trendy and impactful polka dot look, the possibilities for inspiration bear the signature of the big names in international fashion. Dolce & Gabbana, for example, have used polka dots to create patchwork of different patterns, mixing them with floral prints in vintage-style dresses that echo the models worn by the divas of the 50s, then revisited in a contemporary version.
The polka dot dress also took the cinematic spotlight thanks to the signature of Max Mara on one of the costumes used for the filming of the movie “The House of Gucci” and worn by Lady Gaga as Patrizia Reggiani.
An 80s shirtwaist dress in a brown and white polka dot print to wear for various daily occasions. In the Chanel Haute Couture collection, on the other hand, polka dots appear as precious stones that adorn dresses and skirts with extreme elegance, to be worn only for truly special events and dream evenings, red carpet style.
Polka dots: how to best combine this pattern
When it comes to polka dots, mistakes are just around the corner. Let's see how to combine this print in women's clothing to create outfits that enhance our strengths without appearing banal or inelegant. Let's start with the style rules for matching the polka dot pattern.
White "dots" look great on darker colors, such as black, navy, and gray. You can also think, in the wake of Dolce & Gabbana, of particular combinations with floral or checkered patterns: a mix & match with a decidedly glamorous effect.
Polka dot blouses are ideal for giving a touch of originality to a casual look consisting of classic skinny pants in the cold months and shorts in spring and summer. In winter, polka dots also find a place on warm sweaters to wear over monochromatic trousers.
As for polka dot accessories, the best combination for polka dot shoes and bags is with particularly sober outfits. Ribbons and scarves with polka dots are particularly loved, to be combined with colorful dresses to recreate a vintage style that is always fashionable.
For daytime looks, go for multicolor polka dots; for evening looks, let's try soft wool sweater-dresses to match with polka dot tights; while for elegant occasions, let's choose to wear sheer polka dot clothing for a truly refined result.
What, on the other hand, are the mistakes not to make when it comes to polka dots? Certainly, never overdo it by combining polka dot accessories with a polka dot dress: excessive use of the pattern could clash. Let's remember not to overdo the number of accessories to match the outfit either, as this type of print is already inherently demanding and flashy.
Garments with a polka dot pattern tend to shorten the figure and make it look fuller: it is better to avoid wearing prints with polka dots that are too large, which do not streamline the figure, but opt for small dots in accessories or details. Finally, let's remember not to mix many colors together with polka dots to avoid a carnival effect.
Let yourself be guided by the Artigli style in choosing polka dot women's clothing to make your daily outfits original and trendy: discover the new arrivals in dresses, knitwear, pants, and many accessories, always updated according to the latest trends!