Hailey Bieber brings polka dots back in fashion; ways to style this iconic print

Indian Express

3 days ago

Polka dots are a timeless trend, and can be worn on any occasion. A hit among Bollywood stars in the late 1970s-1980s, the pattern remains a favourite among new-age actors. And with the unofficial queen of social media, Hailey Bieber, flaunting polka dots in her latest Instagram photo dump, how could the trend not have made a comeback?
Let's delve into the history of polka dots and learn about the various ways you can style this classic fashion statement:
Notably, the earliest known mention of the term 'polka dot' was made in Godey's Lady's Book in 1857. Before this, the dotted pattern was referred to as quinconce or dotted Swiss. Subsequently, during the Industrial Revolution, sewing machines made the circular pattern possible because, before this, hand-sewing led to imperfectly rounded circles, creating a blotchy pattern.
The first time the trend came into the modern era was when the first Native American woman to be crowned Miss America, Norma Smallwood, wore a polka dot swimsuit in 1926. Soon, Walt Disney jumped on the bandwagon and redesigned Minnie Mouse's dress with polka dots in the 1940s.
Whether you like to go bold and make a statement with larger-than-life dots scattered all over the fabric, or keep it minimal and lowkey with tiny circles, there's a version of polka for everyone.
Britney Spears' love for polka can be seen in her dotted hot pink swimsuits and sheer bodycon dresses. From Julia Roberts to Cameron Diaz, Hollywood A-listers have gravitated towards the simple dots to elevate an otherwise simple ensemble and pay tribute to retro fashion.
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The Royal family also has a deep connection with polka dots. Back in 1988, during the Royal Ascot, Princess Diana had looked ravishing in a brown and white polka dot Alessandra Rich dress, a look that was recreated 34 years later by her daughter-in-law, Kate Middleton. The young Royal chose a Victor Edelstein white and polka outfit and paired it with a matching dotted hat and pearl jewellery. A Sall-Ann Provan hat featuring floral accents sat atop her head.
Column dresses with polka dots in contrasting shades and colours give your look vibrancy, and the right accessories give your look just the right edge. Take inspiration from Hailey Bieber, whose white summer dress with red dots all over, dewy skin and blushed-up cheeks help her ace the perfect strawberry girl look.
Back in the day, Dimple Kapadia's polka dot co-ord from Bobby (1973) made her an instant style icon. A polka dot knotted blouse and matching black made for a simple, breezy outfit that soon went on to become a nostalgic reference for retro fashion enthusiasts.
If you find co-ords too much, choose either the top or bottom half of your outfit to carry the polka dot print. For the other half, opt for a simple, solid coloured piece for optimal contrast. Waist cinching belts break the monotony, while textured fabrics such as lace and frill add character to the look. A bold lip, dramatic winged eyeliner or retro accessories such as headbands and scarves can help seal the deal.
Commonly seen in children's clothing, bathing suits, and lingerie, this playful print is seeing a resurgence with some of the major celebrities donning this trend. Recently, pop star Britney Spears also expressed her love for polka dots on social media. Read here to find out her thoughts on this iconic fashion staple.