Fashion is made of great classics – be it colors, structures, key pieces or materials. Regardless of the trend or season, it is always valid to have timeless items in the wardrobe. In the case of polka dots, there is no doubt that it is considered one of the most feminine and elegant patterns of all time. Back in the 50’s, it was once voted a favorite among Hollywood stars such as Marilyn Monroe and Rita Hayworth for looks that marked vintage aesthetics. Unlike this time, the print is gaining space in both urban scenes and looks that call for more sophistication. Here, Camila and I have invested in proposals that match completely different occasions and show the versatility of pattern. While she opted for a one shoulder blouse combo with smaller dots + denim shorts, I chose a version with the full size prints on the dress. Notice how in the two productions there is an added information: on the one hand, the puffy sleeve. On the other, transparency. It’s always worth innovating on effects, styles and textures when we talk about patterns.
In ready to wear collections, there are options that give an even more elegant and cool tone to the polka dot. At Carolina Herrera, a variation in the ratio between the dots of the body of the dress and the sleeves create a modern, super feminine contrast. As a matter of fact, the founder of the brand, Mrs. Herrera, transformed the polka dots into one of her unmistakable DNA elements, in addition to being responsible for presenting them on her runways for past seasons – and even became an exhibition theme in São Paulo. As for Elie Tahari Summer 2020, asymmetry was the characteristic chosen to give bossa to the black and white look.
Another label that doesn’t exempt the mix of neutral shades is Michael Kors. On its latest runway, cropped top and high-waisted pants emerged in a chic, laid-back 2-piece sets . For Tommy Hilfiger, the game of transparency and the gray background of the skirt gave a touch of boldness and power to the black dots.
With a certain navy mood, Adam Lippes and Tory Burch bet on the navy blue background for their white polka dots. On one side, a model with a slumped waist that plays with ruffles in the skirt and ruching on the blouse. On the other, a dress with a princess neckline, discreet ballooning effect and draped throughout the piece.
I am delighted to see such an iconic aesthetic renewed every season. Even if the pattern is the same, I love to see each stylist’s interpretation and the context of the creation. And there are a thousand ideas to embed the trend into your style.
XoXo, Alice.
