The Viral Polka Dot Trend Seen on Ariana Grande & Dua Lipa
Ariana Grande Puts a Flirty Spin on the Viral Polka-Dot Trend at the VMAs
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Since the year started, trends have come (and gone) at lightning speed. From sardine mania giving way to dolphins to Labubu world domination, it's been a competitive 2025. Naturally, as your trusted shopping friends, we've spotted another trend making a major comeback: polka dots.
The retro print is far from new. Polka dots first gained popularity in the 1850s, thanks in part to Godey's Lady's Book, a Philadelphia-based womens magazine. In an 1857 issue, the magazine described a muslin scarf printed with polka dots, marking the earliest known mention of the pattern in American media. Before that, there was "dotted-swiss," conceptualized by a Switzerland-based textile company that produced sheer cotton fabric emblazoned with small raised dots. Still, the polka dot was considered the cutting-edge print of its era, with its brilliant display of evenly spaced, perfectly sized dots on such a grand scale.
Image Source: Getty Images
Fast forward to the present day, and the print has well-proven its ageless relevance. Street style stars embraced the trend in full force during the menswear Spring 2026 Paris season, donning everything from reimagined, black-and-white polka-dot dresses to Louis Vuitton bags covered in rainbow spots. Celebrities are also embracing the playful design — just reference Ariana Grande's VMAs polka dot gown, Sabrina Carpenter's nails, Dua Lipa's bikini, or the Jenner sisters' and Hailey Bieber's polka-dot capris, dresses, and co-ord sets for proof. And of course, TikTok is joining in on the fun.
Now that we've given you plenty of motivation, shop our curated guide of the chicest fashion, beauty, and home finds to help you discover your long lost polka-dot identity.
Looking for something specific? Browse through our categories for easier shopping:
A Headband
Free People Molly's Soft Headband ($18)
Headbands are a classic accessory, adding a chic touch to any look. This polka-dot style from Free People is just that and more, thanks to its thick silhouette and miniature dots.
Shoe Laces
Anthropologie Organza Shoe Laces ($20)
Looking for a way to embrace the polka dot trend that's far from basic? Consider these organza shoe laces. Available in two color combinations — baby blue-and-black or black-and-white — these laces elevate your sneaker game with ease.
An Off-the-Shoulder Top
UO Fia Mesh Off-The-Shoulder Crop Top ($35)
A crop top is a summer must have, and this pick from Urban Outfitters is a prime example of that. From its off-the-shoulder neckline to its slightly draped bodice, you'll never want to take this top off. Pair it with your favorite low-rise jeans for a casual moment or a bubble skirt for something more dressy.
A Bikini
Princess Polly Jenner Triangle Bikini Top ($35) and Princess Polly Jenner High Side Bikini Bottom ($35)
This triangle bikini just screams polka dot summer. Made with a stretch nylon blend and adjustable coverage thanks to its removable breast pads and tie fastenings, you're bound to feel your most chic, from a spontaneous pool day to your next tropical getaway.
Kitten Heels
Asos Design Sydney Slingback Kitten Heels ($40)
Bring the ultimate nostalgic vibe to your closet with these kitten heels from Asos. This bestseller features a slingback strap and 1.9-inch heel in a vibrant polka-dot print, making for the perfect chic-meets-comfortable shoe.
A Minidress
Cider Cotton-Blend Halter Neckline Polka Dot Ruched Layered Mini Dress ($40)
In case you've been on the hunt for an LBD, consider this dotted mini. Its halter, sweetheart neckline, and tiered-ruffle hem make a flirty statement for any occasion, from brunch with the girls to date night.
Capri Pants
Free People x Revolve Better Printed Super Slim ($98)
As if Hailey Bieber's capris weren't an indicator, it's time to add a pair of polka-dot capri pants to your closet. This style from Free People's collaboration with Revolve comes with two pockets and a subtle back slit at the knees, blending style and functionality seamlessly. Another plus? Its red-and-white pattern.
A Midi Skirt
By Anthropologie Polka Dot Midi Slip Skirt ($98)
A more playful take on the trend, this midi skirt can easily work for any occasion, from the office to dinner. We love its thigh-high slit and contrasting polka-dot print.
A Top-Handle Bag
Melie Bianco Maisel Faux-Leather Top-Handle Bag ($98)
A puppy being able to style this Melie Bianco polka-dot bag is all the sign you need to add it to your cart. Made from imported premium vegan leather, this bag comes with a removable crossbody strap for multiple styling opportunities and a latch closure for secure wear. It even comes in a red-and-white version if black and white isn't your favorite combination.
A Nail Dotting Tool
Yes, you can even embrace the polka-dot summer trend with your nails this season. This dotting tool set features 10 ball ends of five different diameters, and five dual-styluses for convenience when creating your manicure at home.
A Freckle Pen
Marylia Scott Cosmetics Spot On Freckle Pen ($25)
"Love Island USA" star Huda Mustafa uses this cosmetics pen to create her signature freckles, and you can use the same trick to add a playful, polka-dot vibe to your summer makeup. It comes in two shades: Light Dark and Deep.
Press-On Nails
Ersa Nails Polka Pop ($40)
Skip a trip to the nail salon with these whimsical press-ons from Ersa. It's the perfect Parisian-chic set, from its almond shape to its French design.
A Grocery Tote
Kate Spade New York Reusable Shopping Tote ($20)
This shopping tote from Kate Spade's iconic Black Dots collection is equal parts stylish and functional. Featuring a tie closure, you can use this bag for any shopping occasion, from the grocery store to the mall.
Bedding
Maeve by Anthropologie Cotton Polka Dot Embroidered Euro Sham ($58)
This embroidered sham is not only adorned with a gorgeous polka-dot print, but it's also made from 100 percent cotton. It also comes in blue-and-white polka dots for the maximalist decor lover.
A Vase
Franca NYC Speckled Pillar Vase ($162)
Tap into your inner art enthusiast with this speckled vase from Franca NYC. Inspired by Picasso's minimalist style, this hand-painted piece can easily elevate your humble abode, from your dresser to your coffee table.
An Arm Chair
Orren Ellis Black Circles Pattern Upholstered Accent Arm Chair ($270, originally $294)
Brilliantly crafted with high-density Italian ink and sturdy hardwood, this chair adds a nostalgic yet modern flair to your space.
Naomi Parris is the assistant shopping editor at PS, based in New York. With over eight years of experience and previous roles held on the brand's Beauty and Operations teams, she enjoys telling stories that merge fashion, beauty, and Black culture. Naomi has also lent her skillful pen to Essence Girls United, Elle, Bustle, and Elite Daily. When she's not crafting shopping roundups, high-profile features, beauty op-eds, or trend guides, you can find Naomi behind her blog "Eli-Nay," where she inspires readers through style guides, cultural pieces, and innovative content on her Instagram.
