Are you attracted to clothes with polka dots on them? Do you see a navy polka dot dress and just think, “I just have to have that cute pattern in my spring wardrobe?”
I think polka dots are such a cheerful pattern and in fact, in the United States, the polka dots pattern became famous in 1926 when Norma Smallwood, Miss America at the time, wore a polka dot swimsuit. As a result, many women fell in love with the print.
Many of us remember Julia Roberts’ lady-like brown with white polka dots dress from Pretty Woman. Such a classic look. And then Lucille Ball was famous for wearing various polka dot swing dresses in I Love Lucy.
Today I will share with you four fun ways to style a navy polka dot dress. This Ann Taylor dress has been so popular, that it is almost sold out. But, I’ve got you covered with several terrific substitutions. Let’s get to the cute looks.
In this post...
This first outfit really shows the features of this dress. I paired the navy polka dot dress with pearls and wicker because that’s an iconic look. My pearls are long and create movement when I walk. The skirt of the dress is accordion pleated which is very on-trend right now. My purse is a wicker one from J. McLaughlin and I think this shop sells terrific handbags and belts. The belt is a khaki canvas trimmed in honey-colored leather. It goes with so many spring and summer looks, especially white denim and this navy dress.
The dress has a small ruffle at the armhole. I wore “diamond studs” with all four looks and with this outfit, I added a pearl bracelet as well as cream strappy, razor-heeled sandals also from Ann Taylor. Pro-tip: I think Ann Taylor carries darling as well as comfortable shoes each season. They also carry a few pretty scarves each season.
I loved this pairing! Wearing this navy polka dress with this pink-trimmed cream jacket felt fresh and interesting. The jacket has round brass buttons as well as pink fringe-trimmed pocket flaps.
I again wore the cream Ann Taylor razor-heeled sandals which are low enough to be pain-free and yet sexy enough to not look frumpy!
Wearing this navy polka dot dress with a plaid tweed sweater jacket was quite a bold choice. It was definitely an example of pattern mixing which is very popular this spring. I wasn’t sure these pieces would work together, but it was worth a try! Do you think it’s too much? Tell me below in the comments.
I again wore the J. McLaughlin belt because I am short-waisted and the belt helps to give my waist some definition.
Above is a close-up of the pretty gold buttons and the light pink edging on the cuffs and front of the sweater jacket.
Outfit Four: Blue Polka Dot Dress with a White Linen Blazer
This is the most classic of the four ways of styling this dress. Pairing the blue polka dot dress with the white linen dress just works so effortlessly. Pro-tip: The white jacket with cream sandals and white Coach purse all work well together. It’s very acceptable to mix creams and white as long as it looks okay to your eye.
I am a big fan of rolling the sleeves of my jackets. I think it adds a sense of style that isn’t as evident with an unrolled sleeve. Pro-tip: Lastly, classic jewelry such as “diamond” studs, strands of pearls, and a simple dress watch all serve as wonderful basics that elevate any outfit. They are so worth their initial investment because the cost per wear is ultimately so small.
What Shoes to Wear with a Polka Dot Dress?
The question arises quite often as to what shoes to wear with a polka dot dress. I chose to wear a strappy cream sandal as it picked up the cream in the polka dots. But other great options would be black patent leather pumps, flats, or sandals. Red shoes would be terrific in a flat or pump. Black calf leather shoes would work wonderfully. Lastly, nude pumps or sandals would definitely be an excellent go-to choice.
I hope you enjoyed these four ways to style a navy polka dot dress. I think polka dots are such a playful pattern and should be enjoyed by all who like them. Let me know in the comments below which look is your favorite.
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XO,
Dr. Julie
PS Here are a few more posts for you to enjoy:
How to Wear a White Blazer Six Ways
A Pink Gingham Shirt Five Different Ways!
Spring Fashion for Women Over 40
REALLY CUTE Spring Tops for Women
So cute!!!
Oh thanks Col!
I always love classic looks so love the linen jacket. BTW…check the wording under the first part of jacket comments. You look so springy!