Polka dots are back, and here’s how to wear fashion’s favourite retro print into autumn

Polka dots are back, and here’s how to wear fashion’s favourite retro print into autumn


High-contrast, monochromatic polka dots had their moment last summer, and rather than retreating with the warm weather, they’ve walked straight onto the AW26 runways. Carolina Herrera layered them into dropped-waist silhouettes, Dior rendered them in soft wool, and the print turned up across resort collections with a distinctly cooler-weather sensibility. Silk chiffon over tights, polka-dot trousers under tailored coats, a bow clip as the finishing note. The formula still holds: whimsy meets classic tailoring, Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman, Claudia Schiffer circa ’95. What’s shifted is the styling. Think less sundress, more considered layering. Connect the dots, and wear them through the season.

Polka dots are back, and here’s how to wear fashion’s favourite retro print into autumn
Christian Dior Fall 26
Polka dots are back, and here’s how to wear fashion’s favourite retro print into autumn
Francoise Mila Pants in Polka Dots from Muse
Polka dots are back, and here’s how to wear fashion’s favourite retro print into autumn
Brandon Maxwell Riviera Polka dot Dress from Moda Operandi
Polka dots are back, and here’s how to wear fashion’s favourite retro print into autumn
Isabel Marant Peleo polka-dot mesh pumps from Farfetch

Polka dots are back, and here’s how to wear fashion’s favourite retro print into autumn
Irving Trouser in Silk Georgette from Harris Tapper
Polka dots are back, and here’s how to wear fashion’s favourite retro print into autumn
Barbara polka-dot satin pumps from AMINA MUADDI
Polka dots are back, and here’s how to wear fashion’s favourite retro print into autumn
Elene polka-dot silk-blend twill blouse from DÔEN
Polka dots are back, and here’s how to wear fashion’s favourite retro print into autumn
Pleated polka-dot crepe midi dress from Balenciaga

Polka dots are back, and here’s how to wear fashion’s favourite retro print into autumn
Polka dots are back, and here’s how to wear fashion’s favourite retro print into autumn
Rodarte Flower-Detailed Polka-Dot Dress from Moda Operandi
Polka dots are back, and here’s how to wear fashion’s favourite retro print into autumn
Dolce & Gabbana polka-dot playsuit from Farfetch
Polka dots are back, and here’s how to wear fashion’s favourite retro print into autumn
Prada Bow-detail polka-dot hair clip from Mythersa

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