Patterns, Prints, and Textiles
Jan 26, 2020

The Spring Trend That's Hitting Sooner Than Expected

by Nicole Akhtarzad Eshaghpour

Back in September, as our team watched the S/S 20 shows in New York, London, Milan, and Paris unfold both in person and online, we repeatedly noticed polka dots come down the runways of brand after brand that we admired. Later, as we did more of a deep dive into all the shows and looks, it was clear that the classic print would definitely be coming back as a major trend for the season that’s now fast approaching. After all, endorsements from Balmain, Michael Kors, Marc Jacobs, Max Mara, and more are nothing to balk at.

Fast-forward to just a few weeks ago when this editor was elated to see a stunning Zoë Kravitz turn heads (as always) on the Golden Globes red carpet in a polka-dot dress by one of my favorite labels, none other than Saint Laurent. My interest in the trend was was suddenly reinvigorated, and even though we’re still fully in winter, I couldn’t help but notice that more than a handful of spotted pieces were already hitting retailers, in addition to the red carpets. Some from resort collections, others from fast-fashion retailers that clearly know what’s coming, and as always, a handful of in-between brands which we’ve come to expect will hit the mark. In short, spring has come early, and the polka-dot trend is here just waiting for you to shop (and wear) it. To see the runway inspiration for yourself as well as my edit of the best polka-dot pieces to buy at every price point, just keep scrolling.

Balmain S/S 20

Polka Dot Runway Trend SS20 Balmain

Photo:

Victor VIRGILE/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images

This particular coupling of looks was just one of many viral moments from Balmain's show.

& Other Stories Sheer Puff Sleeve Polka Dot Blouse

& Other Stories

Sheer Puff Sleeve Polka Dot Blouse

Style this with jeans or trousers—either way, you can't go wrong.

Carolina Herrera S/S 20

Polka Dot Runway Trend SS20 Carolina Herrera

Photo:

Courtesy of Carolina Herrera

I love it when a look combines inverted versions of the same print.

H&M V-Beck Dress

This will come in handy so often.

Michael Kors S/S 20

Polka Dot Runway Trend SS20 Michael Kors

Photo:

Courtesy of Michael Kors

This print fit right in with Michael Kors's American-themed S/S 20 collection.

Ronny Kobo Callie Dress

It doesn't have to be all black-and-white.

Dries van Noten S/S 20

Polka Dot Runway Trend SS20 Dries van Noten

Photo:

Courtesy of Dries van Noten

If I'm being honest, it was nearly impossible to choose my favorite look from this show.

Ganni Printed Georgette Skirt

Printed Georgette Skirt

In case you were wondering how to style the skirt, this exact outfit is worth copying.

Milly Micro Dot Top

This classic neckline is just so flattering.

Max Mara S/S 20

Polka Dot Runway Trend SS20 Max Mara

Photo:

Courtesy of Max Mara

As you can see, Max Mara had a whole section of its show devoted to the print.

Reformation Rosaly Top

I always know I'm on to something when Reformation is aligned.

Rat & Boa Camille Dolka-Dot Georgette Dress

Camille Dolka-Dot Georgette Dress

Add accessories to give the trend a festive touch.

Staud Polka-Dot Balloon Sleeve Top

Polka-Dot Balloon Sleeve Top

Always a fashion-crowd favorite.

Altuzarra S/S 20

Polka Dot Runway Trend SS20 Altuzarra

Photo:

Courtesy of Altuzarra

Violeta Polka-Dot Belt Dress

Polka-Dot Belt Dress

When you find an on-sale dress that looks this good with boots, you buy it.

Alice McCall Tokyo Skies Mini Dress

Tokyo Skies Mini Dress

Someone invite me to a party, please.

Richard Quinn S/S 20

Polka Dot Runway Trend SS20 Richard Quinn

Photo:

Courtesy of Richard Quinn

Ending the runway inspo on a fun note, this Richard Quinn look is just begging for a major red carpet moment.

Staud Petunia Dress

Be the star of the next wedding you go to.