‘Super-flattering’ print that’s loved by the Princess of Wales, plus the best polka-dots on the high street & how to wear them.
M&S has just unveiled a fresh collection of new-season occasionwear - including a standout polka-dot mini dress
Everyone is going dotty for polka dots this season.
From the catwalks of Carolina Herrera and Moschino, to the blue carpet of the Met Gala that took place on Monday night in New York with Priyanka Chopra wearing Balmain and the Princess of Wales stepping out on Thursday for VE day in a polka dot Alessandra Rich dress - spots are everywhere.
And now the high street is also filled with them.
The perfect print to add to your summer wardrobe, you can find everything in spots from shoes and bags to dresses, skirts and everything in between.
Whether you’re after a classic monochrome option, a Pretty Woman brown and white look or some bright fun spots for the warm weather ahead, take a look below as our fashion team show how they’re styling the print of the season.
Abby McHale, 30, Deputy Fashion Editor
- Dress, £99, Nobody’s Child -
- Shoes, £35.99, Zara -
- Bag, £39.50, M&S Collection at Marks & Spencer -
- Necklace, £26, Oliver Bonas -
- Sunglasses, £9.99, H&M -
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Polka dots seem to be one of those prints that stand the test of time, so if you have any in your wardrobe you can wear them time and time again.
I love polka dots for an occasion as I think they look really classy, and this dress from Nobody’s Child is perfect.
The ruched detailing down the front is super-flattering and you can wear it strapless or with straps, depending on your preference.
I’ve decided to go double dotty and pair with these kitten heels from Zara - the contrast of the monochrome reversed on these compared to the dress adds another dimension to the look.
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I'm finishing off the look with a pop of colour in this fun floral red bag from M&S, some gold jewellery and a pair of sunnies.
Clemmie Fieldsend, 34, Fashion Editor
- Blouse, £59.99, Zara -
- Jeans, £27.99, H&M -
- Shoes, £27.99, Pull & Bear -
- Cuff, £98, Reiss -
- Bag, £85, Cos -
- Sunglasses, £2.50, Primark -
Being a minimalist, when it comes to bold prints like polka dot, I favour small spots.
When I first saw this monochrome blouse from Zara I fell for it, it's more than just a spotty top - it's practically a cape.
I’ll be wearing it on warm summer evenings out for cocktails and catch-ups with my girlfriends, as well as on holiday.
The cape gives it an elevated feel that adds oomph to an outfit with no effort and a pussy-bow blouse feels sophisticated and feminine all at the same time.
I'm pairing it with wide-leg white jeans for a summer vibe and heeled sandals for a chic, timeless outfit.
It's all polished off with simple accessories, like this gorgeous cuff from Reiss that will finish any look and a raffia clutch from Cos that I will use all summer and for future summers to come.
Tracey Lea Sayer, 53, Fashion Director
- Top, £30, Next -
- Lipstick, £28, Ilia -
- Trousers, £34, Next -
- Red sandals, £20, Next -
- Bag, £249, Massimo Dutti -
- Sunglasses, £12.99, H&M -
I remember wearing a polka-dot puff-ball skirt back in the '80s with a bright-yellow duster coat and a pair of stripy leggings (don’t ask!), thinking I looked the bee's knees.
Back then it was all about the colour clashing, bold prints and looking as out-there as possible.
Style icons Cyndi Lauper, Madonna and Prince all rocked dots and looked amazing, and designers like Valentino and Dolce & Gabbana have made them their own, but I have never been able to find a modern-day 2025 spin on the trend that works for me.
Fast-forward 30 years and I think I still associate polka dots with the '80s in all its gory, clashing glory!
They either transport me back in time or look too girlie on me - this ensemble is as close as I can get to giving them a go.
I like the oversized print on this Next ironically, puffball, top!
Wearing voluminous sleeves always helps my non-existent waist and I love a pair of white high-waisted wide-leg trousers for the summer.
Add in a red lip, some cool flats and a pair of sunnies and I am prepared to give polka dots a go for the first time since 1989!
Emily Regan, 25, Fashion Assistant
- Dress, £89, M&S Collection at Marks & Spencer -
- Shoes, £27.99, Zara -
- Bag, £59.99, Mango -
- Hat, £32, & Other Stories -
- Sunglasses, £22.99, Parfois -
I’m not usually a fan of polka dots, but recently Marks & Spencer completely won me over with this gorgeous organza minidress and I'm honestly surprised it hasn't sold out yet.
It’s the ideal piece for just about any summer occasion.
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Whether you’re heading to a garden party, packing for your holiday or dressing it up for the races or a christening, it’s an incredibly versatile piece.
I’ve doubled up my polka dots with this contrasting pair of heels from Zara, a classic fedora, and oversized square sunglasses for that chic, old-money aesthetic.
Why Everyone Is Loving M&S
Deputy Fashion Editor Abby McHale revealed to Fabulous why M&S is the shop of the moment. She explained:
“M&S has really pulled it out of the bag this season, there is so much good product to be excited about.
“A brand once known for its ‘frumpy fashion’ that notion is long gone with it now being one of the leading high street stores for womenswear.
“Its handbag range in particular is super strong with them selling 170% vs plan, with lots more designer dupes for just a fraction of the price.
“The brand is now also the #1 for style perceptions, compared to the #3 spot it had last year, this comes from a really strong design team focused on modernising the brand, not only taking into consideration how the pieces look, but how easy they are to wear also.
“Price is also a big factor with you being able to get many good quality pieces all for under £30.
“After having a sneak peak of the upcoming collection there are so many more amazing pieces that are dropping over the next few months to keep your eyes on.
“Think leopard print dresses, colourful co-ords, embroidered boho jackets, plus lots of swimwear and amazing accessories, as well as great wardrobe staples that will last year on year.”