Polka-Dot Dresses are Summer’s Unexpected Trend—Here’s How to Style Them

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You might think of them as vintage, but polka-dot dresses are everywhere this summer, no doubt a result of seeing them in spring and summer 2025 runways. Celebrities like Kaia Gerber and Sydney Sweeney have also been spotted stepping out in the whimsical pattern, and Priyanka Chopra wore the style at the Met Gala.

As shopping editors, our team is constantly writing about the latest fashion trends and buying behaviors. (The Labubu craze has been on our radar for some time now, but unlike the collectible, polka-dot dresses are timeless.) And this summer, it’s all about having fun with colors and lengths when it comes to the trend. While I love a classic black-and-white pattern, I’ve been into the red, browns, and even pink polka dots lately.

Want to lean into the retro style? Below, we broke down exactly how to style polka-dot dresses this season.

Glamour’s polka-dot dress wish listBlack-and-White Polka-Dot Dress: Petal & Pup Francesca Dot Midi-Dress & Scarf, $89Red Polka-Dot Dress: Princess Polly Nellie Polka-Dot Maxidress, $75Brown Polka-Dot Dress: Doen Lorraine Dress, $398White Dress With Polka Dots: Bardot Citron Polka-Dot Halter Cocktail Midi-Dress, $671. Black-and-white polka-dot dressesIf you normally stick to neutrals, then the OG black-and-white polka-dot dress is a great place to start. To give it a modern twist, go with an open-back option. “Styling a polka-dot dress is all about creating balance,” says Nena Evans, a fashion and lifestyle digital creator. “Try a raffia tote and thong sandals with a cotton midi for daytime, or opt for a voluminous polka-dot silhouette with a leather mini bag and pointed-toe mules when the occasion calls for something more elegant.”

A smaller micro trend we’ve been eyeing? The skinny scarf, which has been quietly appearing attached to dresses at major retailers like Zara, Abercrombie, and more. Combine that with a cute crossbody bag and strappy heels, and you have an elegant ensemble fit for a beach wedding. If you’re taking it out for date night, just add a black leather jacket, a clutch, and platforms.

Petal & Pup Francesca Dot Midi-Dress & Scarf

Reformation Zani Dress

If you’re already a fan of floral dresses, you’re going to fall in love with red polka-dot dresses. There’s something about them that instantly says summer picnic or California winery. If you’re stepping out in a red polka-dot dress, you really can’t go wrong with your go-to sneakers (we recommend slim Adidas) or ballet flats. The color is so punchy and plays to the tomato-girl summer aesthetic that’s been making the rounds on social media. I’m eyeing this red number from Revolve as my next travel-dress purchase.

Princess Polly Nellie Polka-Dot Maxidress

Frankies Bikinis Emilia Crepe Minidress

3. Brown polka-dot dressesSince I’m a fan of browns and neutrals, the brown polka-dot dress, à la Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman, is right up my alley. You can really have fun with this color by pairing either a romantic slip or a silk maxi version with pointy kitten heels.

Zara Polka-Dot Midi-Dress

Doen Lorraine Dress

4. White dresses with polka dotsI recently added this House of CB halter polka-dot dress to my wardrobe. It’s form-fitting and doesn’t swallow my petite frame (I’m 5’2″). I plan to wear it with oval sunglasses and silver Mary Janes—boom, easy. I’ll add a black or navy blazer if I want to look a little more intentional. And if you’re looking for something a little more affordable, check out these Amazon summer dresses that are under $100.

Solada Polka-Dot Print Georgette Halter Sundress

Bardot Citron Polka-Dot Halter Cocktail Midi-Dress

The Drop Luna Scoop-Neck Linen Maxidress

Mango Polka-Dot Dress With Draped Body