Trending Now: Polka Dots

This summer, embrace a monochrome look with bold black and white polka dots, as styled by M&S Insider, Emma Hackett (@marksandspencer_em).

“Airy cotton tops and flip flops are perfect for this heatwave. I've styled the polka dot sailor collar top back with pleated longline shorts for a relaxed day time look, paired with a hardware detail bucket bag that fits all my essentials,” says Emma.

This versatile print seamlessly transitions from day to night. “For a cute evening look I have swapped out the sailor collar top for this super flattering shirred peplum top and added a red shoulder bag to inject a pop of colour.”

Wondering how to get the most wear out of your polka-dot piece? Fret not. Go head to toe with bold linen trousers and a co-ordinating polka-dot top.

Adding an extra layer? Polka dots and denim jackets are a match made in heaven, the durability of the latter adding an instant casual edge to even the flounciest dresses or blouses. You could also try pairing with a leather jacket, a tailored blazer, or with a lightweight jumper knotted around your shoulders.

Polka-dot skirts are easy to wear during warmer weather, whether you choose a mini, midi or maxi length. Add a pair of chic ballet flats for everyday wear, or dress up with strappy heels if you're going out-out. Bare legs are the only accessory you'll need on sunny days.

Polka dots are hot news this summer and they're inspired by the wardrobes of style icons from the 1950s. Make like Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn with a fit-and-flare dress to embrace the vintage aesthetic.

Our black and white polka-dot dress is guaranteed to spark joy. With its delicate cowl neckline and fitted bodycon silhouette, it'll put a welcome spring in your step. Wear with sleek kitten heels and a clutch for an evening event, or with chic ballet flats for a high-low mix that feels so right for now.

Complete the look with subtle gold jewellery. We love red lipstick for setting off the retro-inspired design, but understated make-up also looks unfussy and ultra-modern.

A print as eye-catching as polka dots needs little in the way of complex accessories. Keep bags minimal, in either the colour of the dot or the background, or in a contrasting shade. Think complementary pastels or a pop of bright, zingy colour.

Match your accessories to your footwear for a co-ordinated look, or keep things polished with neutrals. If you prefer an artful clash, mix things up with unexpected colour and texture. Finally, when it comes to gilding the look, reach for oversized gold jewellery to amplify the old-school glamour of polka dots.