I’ve never thought of myself as someone who could pull off the polka dot trend. It wasn’t until my mom introduced me to what has now become one of my favorite movies, Pretty Woman, that I became fixated on mastering the polka dot look.

In the film, Julia Roberts’ character, Vivian, transforms into the picture of elegance in a brown and white polka dot dress and matching hat. She looks so chic — who wouldn’t want to copy her look?

While I can’t say I have many charity polo matches to attend myself, I wanted to recreate Julia’s classy feel with a trendier, more modern twist for school, a night out, and everything in between. 

“Modern” is a key word here. While I am a devout fan of New Girl, I’m not trying to look like its titular character Jess when wearing polka dots. What I mean is that polka dots can look purposefully retro, which by all means is a look many people go for. But it’s not what I’m trying for with my looks.

As young college women, most of us are looking for the fine line between elegant and cool. And the new wave of polka dot trends is here to satisfy all our fashion needs.

Over the past few seasons, we’ve seen the full return of the polka dot, so now is your perfect time to try it. The bold print comes in every size and color, and it adorns every product imaginable.

There is something for everyone, but here are some ideas for how to wear polka dots. Just don’t forget to make the looks your own!

Table of Contents

Pastels

Products: Skirt – Forever 21, Top – Missguided, Shoes – Nordstrom Rack, Socks – Urban Outfitters, Earrings – Free People

Pastels can be hard to wear, but polka dots make for the perfect cute complement.