I believed polka-dot dresses were the best, until I tried on this stylish alternative.

I believed polka-dot dresses were the best, until I tried on this stylish alternative.

      As a junior fashion editor for Who What Wear UK, part of my role involves experimenting with trending looks and pieces. I gather fashion inspiration from runway shows, my social media feeds, and the new arrivals sections of our favorite retailers to evaluate fit, fabric, value, and quality, while also observing how these trends appear on real bodies. It takes something exceptional to truly capture my attention, but right now, I can’t get enough of polka dots. Last week, I discussed the charm of polka-dot dresses, but this week, I've been captivated by a range of polka-dot two-piece sets. While creating content for our social media channels, I was astonished by the abundance of chic and versatile two-piece polka-dot sets available everywhere, from high street to high-end. Perhaps my eye was already tuned into this classic print, but the surge of coordinating polka-dot outfits I saw in London’s storefronts clearly indicated that I needed to share this trend with you.

      Summer has traditionally been characterized by bright florals and delightful ditsy prints, yet in 2025, polka dots have emerged as the leading pattern of the season. Retro yet minimal, stylish personalities like Jennifer Lawrence, Laura Harrier, and Dua Lipa have embraced the trend in various settings, sporting polka dots in Instagram grid posts, casually in the city, and with sophistication on the red carpet. This trend caught my attention when Ariana Grande, known for her performance-driven fashion, appeared on TikTok in a full polka-dot ensemble (complete with a cape), lip-syncing to Wicked alongside influencers and promoting R.E.M Beauty's latest collection.

      It's not just celebrities embracing polka dots—Who What Wear’s SEO writer, Ava Gilchrist, fully supports the trend, calling polka dots a “true neutral” in her wardrobe. Reflecting on the evolving identity of the print, she observes that polka dots can often feel somewhat bourgeois, which is why she prefers to wear them in more sensual cuts to challenge their previously stiff or conservative associations. I completely resonate with her view. As she describes, “They are inherently playful, flirty, and ‘feminine’, allowing for easy mixing with edgier leather pieces or softening with denim.” Her final piece of advice? “A word to the wise: the smaller the spot, the chicer the look.”

      While it may seem as though polka dots have emerged from nowhere, that's not accurate. Designers like Fendi, Moschino, and Isabel Marant have heavily featured this print in their 2025 collections, signaling a broader comeback for bold, statement-making '80s patterns in high fashion. However, it’s essential to clarify that polka dots have always been present; what sets this season apart is their mainstream acceptance. High-street favorites like Zara, H&M, and COS have introduced a wide array of dot-themed pieces in their spring/summer collections, making the trend more accessible than ever. At the same time, fashion-forward labels like Susamusa have garnered attention online, with its Polka Dot Meadow Skirt becoming a breakout star on Google Trends and selling out within a day upon release. Additionally, searches for polka-dot halter tops have risen by 200%, indicating that this print is more than just a passing trend—it’s the defining pattern of the season.

      This is precisely why I’m here to convey that investing in a polka-dot co-ord is a worthwhile choice. It handles the heavy lifting for you. The right set epitomizes stylish convenience—effortlessly chic and endlessly versatile. A well-chosen co-ord offers a sophisticated top that pairs beautifully with everything from denim to tailored pieces, while the matching bottoms contribute equally to your wardrobe. During my shopping excursions, I’ve discovered three standout sets from Mango, Reformation, and Ganni that deserve your attention. Trust me; I’ve tried them, and they’re worth talking about.

      1. **Reformation Dorothea Two Piece**

       - Style Notes: I first noticed this two-piece on influencer Emma Legar and immediately thought it might be the cutest thing I had seen. After visiting the Reformation store, I can confirm it exceeded my expectations. Made from a lightweight, crepe-like fabric, the set hangs beautifully and is ideal for warm weather. I tried it on during an unexpectedly hot 27-degree day in London and felt like I could have left the store wearing it. The top features a built-in bodice with small button closures, allowing for a more relaxed look when worn open or a modest feel when closed. I stayed true to size, opting for a UK 10 in both the top and skirt, and it fit perfectly—no bunching or tightness. The fit was just right, and I’m seriously considering purchasing this set for summer. For an office-appropriate look, I would add a tailored blazer and pair it with loafers. On weekends, I’d

I believed polka-dot dresses were the best, until I tried on this stylish alternative. I believed polka-dot dresses were the best, until I tried on this stylish alternative. I believed polka-dot dresses were the best, until I tried on this stylish alternative. I believed polka-dot dresses were the best, until I tried on this stylish alternative. I believed polka-dot dresses were the best, until I tried on this stylish alternative. I believed polka-dot dresses were the best, until I tried on this stylish alternative. I believed polka-dot dresses were the best, until I tried on this stylish alternative. I believed polka-dot dresses were the best, until I tried on this stylish alternative. I believed polka-dot dresses were the best, until I tried on this stylish alternative. I believed polka-dot dresses were the best, until I tried on this stylish alternative. I believed polka-dot dresses were the best, until I tried on this stylish alternative. I believed polka-dot dresses were the best, until I tried on this stylish alternative. I believed polka-dot dresses were the best, until I tried on this stylish alternative. I believed polka-dot dresses were the best, until I tried on this stylish alternative. I believed polka-dot dresses were the best, until I tried on this stylish alternative. I believed polka-dot dresses were the best, until I tried on this stylish alternative. I believed polka-dot dresses were the best, until I tried on this stylish alternative. I believed polka-dot dresses were the best, until I tried on this stylish alternative. I believed polka-dot dresses were the best, until I tried on this stylish alternative. I believed polka-dot dresses were the best, until I tried on this stylish alternative. I believed polka-dot dresses were the best, until I tried on this stylish alternative. I believed polka-dot dresses were the best, until I tried on this stylish alternative.

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I believed polka-dot dresses were the best, until I tried on this stylish alternative.

Polka dots have been a major trend in summer fashion. I tried on three different sets at Reformation, Ganni, and Mango, and I've provided an in-depth analysis of the style, fit, and sizing to clarify why these two-piece ensembles are favored by editors.