Beyond stripes and checks, this print has been ultra-trendy since this summer and is now the star of the season. From the runways to the streets, and even on the red carpet, it’s everywhere!
From Historical Misfortune to Fashionable Fortune
While plaids and stripes have been staples in celebrity and TV host wardrobes, another pattern has truly stood out this season, even making its way into nail art trends! Interestingly, this pattern, which today we wear from head to toe, was once considered a symbol of misfortune because it was associated with diseases like smallpox.
It wasn’t until the 19th century that this pattern gained prominence, thanks to the polka dance which lent it its name. During the 1840s, the dance was so popular that anything associated with it became instantly fashionable, including this motif.
Moving into the 20th century, this trend caught on, particularly with the Miss America swimsuit in 1926, which stirred up significant attention. However, it was in the 1950s that this print, specifically polka dots, truly had its golden age. Celebrities, including Marilyn Monroe, wore it with pride.
The Resurgence of Polka Dots
After gaining massive popularity this past summer, polka dots have stormed the fashion runways. Recently, the fashion-focused search engine Tag Walk noted a 1,742% increase in the use of polka dots in the 2026 Resort collections compared to the previous year. Major labels like Gucci, Fendi, Huishan Zhang, Jacquemus, Acne Studio, and Valentino have all incorporated it into their collections, featuring it on dresses, skirts, bags, tops, and more.
Even now, with New York Fashion Week not yet underway, polka dots dominate the scene. Brands like Patou, Christian Siriano, Fiorucci, Khaite, and Rowen Rose have each reimagined this pattern in their unique ways. From dresses to skirts, blazers, suits, shirts, and pants, polka dots have made their mark everywhere, even on footwear through a collaboration between Repetto and Comme des Garçons.
Celebrities Embrace the Trend
Of course, celebrities have fallen for polka dots. Kaia Gerber wore them in a stunning yellow top at the Venice Film Festival. Ariana Grande appeared in a polka dot dress on the red carpet at the MTV Video Music Awards. Iris Mittenaere was also spotted sporting a black and white polka dot dress during her vacation in Spain.
Polka Dots: A Symbol of Elegance
Polka dots are perfect for brightening up an outfit and adding a bit of flair, especially with the return of drearier weather. So don’t hesitate to embrace this trend. This season, it’s truly the one to adopt.
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Olivia Martinez is the Fashion Editor at Lady and The Track, bringing over seven years of experience in the fashion industry. With a background in fashion design and styling, Olivia has worked with top fashion brands and magazines. Her keen eye for trends and styling tips helps readers stay ahead of the fashion curve. Whether she’s covering runway shows or street style, Olivia ensures that Lady and The Track readers are always in the know when it comes to the latest in fashion.