It’s the Summer of Subverted Polka Dots

Again, this approach covering yourself in dots is one we saw during the recent resort 2026 season. At Coach, rockstar-worthy plaids and leathers were juxtaposed against peppy polka-dotted ties. Fendi took a fully-monochromatic route by pairing a dotted shirt, skirt, and belt together. Sandy Liang, meanwhile, paired her version of a polka-dotted collared shirt—silky and ruffled—with a pink plaid mini skirt. Who doesn’t love an artful textile clash?

The slightly twisted take is seemingly gaining legs this summer, as we are now starting to see polka dots on the most unlikeliest of pieces. Hailey Bieber's seasonal wardrobe is a prime example: The model and Rhode founder stepped out in New York City recently wearing a pair of spotted capri leggings. (Yes, capris—those are having a moment, too.) The pattern is now making its way onto everything from athleisure, to luxurious Manolo Mary Janes.

The saturation of the trend now means you can truly make of it whatever you wish. I don’t know about you, but I’m inspired by the more off-kilter styling. Pair chic dotted Manolos with baggy jeans, or a more formal polka dot top with gym shorts! Make the trend weird and fun! Think less Audrey Hepburn, more polarizing trendsetter. Riri would approve.