Patterns in Fashion: iv. Polka Dots

In Victorian times, small and evenly spaced polka dots became popular with the introduction of machine-made fabrics, replacing the hand-sewn dots created by seamstresses.
By the 1920s, polka dots started to be worn in larger and more flamboyant styles, alongside the smaller and more sophisticated designs.
Disney's Minnie Mouse has been known for wearing large red and white polka dots since 1928, but she recently changed to a Stella McCartney-designed deep blue polka dot trouser suit for her A/W 2022 runway show in Paris.

In the 1950s, polka dots gained popularity as part of the Bombshell and Rock'n'Roll styles, being sported by celebrities such as Elizabeth Taylor, Marilyn Monroe, Brigitte Bardot and Sophia Loren in various clothing items such as dresses, swimsuits, bikinis, capri pants, crisp neck scarves and blouses.
Whether worn in a dotty, spotty, ditsy or classic dot design, the polka dot can be seen as playful and fun, yet also timeless and elegant.
In the 1980s, polka dots made a comeback, notably worn by Diana, Princess of Wales in striking, tailored outfits for her public appearances.
For an understanding of how you could best wear polka dot patterns, please book a Body Type Style Analysis.