Polka Dot Outfits for men. Classic patterns in menswear have witnessed certain changes over the years: glen check, houndstooth, stripes, and windowpanes on clothing and paisley and polka dots on accessories alike.

Polka dot is an iconic pattern of circles and dots arranged regularly or randomly. They come in various sizes and colors. And they also come in different color combinations you can think of – multi-colored or a single tone on a contrasting background.

The pattern has now been labelled as a means to express playfulness and personality. Polka dots have been seen on the likes of the Duke of Windsor and Winston Churchill. In fact, Churchill’s polka-dot bow-tie from Turnbull & Asser was his trademark in fashion. He wore it from his youth to old age in honor of his father, Lord Randolph.

History. The designs on the clothes then were unevenly spaced because they were manually sewn. In Western dress history, clothes with spotted patterns were initially banned as they were associated with skin diseases like bubonic plague and leprosy. But by the 18th century, polka dots started to make a noise.

We can believe that the term is derived from polka music that became popular in Britain in the late 1900s. Meanwhile, in decades 40s and 50s, polka dot button-down shirts in black and white grew famous for men. And then the bold fashion statement of the 70s brought bright-colored polka dots into the light of fashion. Men started wearing polka dot outfits at different events and functions.

Tips on Wearing Polka Dots

Several factors can affect the impression polka dots create, like the dots’ size, color, and spacing.

• The Size of the Dots. Average to smaller dots are business-appropriate, while large dots are more casual and fun. Smaller versions of dots are called “pin dots,” but the term “microdots” can also be used to refer to the same thing or something slightly larger.
• The Spacing of Dots. The density or spacing of the dots can be determined by “dots-per-inch” (dpi). This refers to how closely the dots are to each other. For instance, wearing a tie with irregularly spaced dots gives off an artistic vibe; it shows that you enjoy defying the norms. 
• Colors. So far, white dots are most commonly seen in men. Regardless if they’re on a tie or a pocket square, they work just fine with the standard white button-down. Navy canvas with white spots is famous for all kinds of ties. Meanwhile, brown and white is another perfect pairing through a grey background. Any two complementing shades are suitable for a team-up, limited only by your preference in fashion.
• Accessories. The good thing about polka-dotted accessories is they look amazing in many two- and three-color combos. The Gentleman’s Gazette said that the dots on your tie or pocket square could create a different vibe. For instance, you can create a three-color combo by wearing a burgundy tie with yellow dots and then pairing them with a grey suit. The color of the dots can also be used to coordinate with your skin undertone.

What to Avoid

• Avoid being overdressed with polka. Not that there’s something wrong with being a clown, but polka dots are often associated with them. Now, if you don’t want to look like one, keep the rest of your outfit simple when incorporating polka dots.
• Avoid wearing polka dots to work as it may be inappropriate. It will not help you make the best impression, and your workmates will not take you seriously. Polka dots are all about style and self-expression, so it is best to save them for the weekend instead of wearing them to a business meeting.
• Avoid showy novelty socks because you don’t want to have people look at your ankles. It is better to wear socks with a subtle yet original pattern that lets you show your style and personality in an elegant way.

How to Wear Polka Dots?

Polka dots have a unique ability to suit a range of occasions, from formal to casual. They are versatile and definitely a must-have in every man’s wardrobe. Keep reading for more intel about polka dots and how to style them.