There is no denying that the fashion world is going dotty over polka dots. These cheerful spots are fast becoming a perennial print, up there with florals and stripes.
Polka dots are huge for autumn 2011 and continue over to spring 2012, where they take on a more nautical vibe. They first appeared on the runways in 2009 and have been growing in popularity with designers ever since. Now, if you take a look at the first drop for the autumn season, you’ll see the rails awash with these energy-giving spots.
Anyone Can Wear Polka Dots
For the print phobic, polka dots offer a welcome change to the ubiquitous florals and not-so-figure-friendly horizontal stripes. Polka dots are playful, flirty, timeless, and more importantly, can be worn by any age group.
Polka dots can be fun and fashionable on a 20-something in all the colors of the rainbow, but in neutral or jewel colors, they can also look classic and chic on older women.
I have to hold my hand up too, and say that ever since my late 20s (which is more years ago than I care to remember) I have never owned anything “dotty.” I'm also not a big fan of florals. However, this autumn season I've weakened and bought a beige and black polka dot shift dress and a chiffon blouse in black with white spots. I’m also currently coveting a polka dot oversized silk scarf at one of my local French boutiques. Therefore, I’ve finally succumbed to the polka dot print trend, and I’m glad I did!
How to Wear Polka Dots
With a little bit of know-how to carry them off to their best effect – anyone can wear spots:
- Younger women can really rock this trend with any color polka dot print and can also clash prints to give a mismatched look. Pairing spots with stripes is great on-trend look for the young at heart.
- The secret to keeping things stylish when you are older is to choose a classic color combination and let the print speak for itself, keeping the rest of the outfit plain and simple. A black and white polka dot chiffon blouse, for example, will look great paired with a black pencil skirt, or black jeans.
- Older women look chic in a polka dot print of neutrals such as beige, black, camel, navy, white, and red – all classic colors that add a hint of sophistication. For a more on-trend look go for a strong jewel color such as teal or fuchsia pink, shades that are all over the runways and can be worn just as well in your 70s as your 20s.
- If you are a polka dot virgin, then you can dip your toe into the trend – literally – with a pair of cute polka-dot print pumps or a quirky spotty clutch bag. Alternatively, go for an oversized polka dot scarf, which will not only add a lift to a plain outfit but will show that you are on the ball when it comes to trends.
- With 40s-inspired dresses currently hitting the shops, if you are not into 40s florals, one of the best ways to embrace it is through a polka dot print. The UK fashion chain Dorothy Perkins, for example, currently has a cheeky red and white polka dot dress with a real 40s feel – team this with a pair of beige patent courts, a gold cuff and a beige clutch and embrace a vintage look.
- If you are wearing spots, keep accessories simple. When it comes to footwear, go for neutral colors such as beige, black or navy – either pulling a color from the print or nude-colors that do not detract from the print itself. Choose plain, simple jewelry such as a gold or silver cuff, a large (but simple) statement ring or some plain oversized earrings.
- For spring 2012 polka dots take on a more nautical look. Replace the traditional Breton stripe with some nautical-inspired spots in a red, navy or white print if you want a fresh and up-to-the minute feel.
Any woman can look great in polka dots and there has never been a better time to embrace this energy-giving print. If in doubt, polka dots in a chic color palette such as navy and white, brown and cream or beige and black will not only be timeless but will flatter any age.
Sources:
- Scarborough, Eliza. "Three Ways to Wear Polka Dots," Daily Mail, September 5, 2011
Gill Hart - Gill Hart is a fashion and image professional who specializes in women's fashion over 50.
