Spring Fashion: Classic Polka Dots

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

--By Kim Moshtaghi

Betsey Johnson Miami Chic Drop Earrings
Betsey Johnson Miami Chic Earrings

$35.00
Available at: nordstrom.com

Polka dots are a fun loving style that has existed since way before my time. It’s true that this super hip trend can look juvenile if worn wrong, but it also can add a lot of spunk to a simple look, like the polka dots worn high necked and long by Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman. She wore a brown dress with white polka dots, and polished off the look with red lipstick. Keeping the look simplistic is what makes her look so admirable.

As usual, I like to ease into some trends. There are those who are hesitant to embrace the polka dot trend, including me at times. So, why not try some girly earrings with a fun up-do. Betsey Johnson’s Miami Chic Drop Earrings are polka-dot hearts surrounded by little sparkly stones that drip down from a tiny black rose.

Heading closer to Julia’s classy outfit, my favorite polka dot dress-- the DKNY Combo Dot Tank Dress-- suits the warm season’s trends with its short hemline. With its retro stripes, polka dots and floppy sash belt this dress is something right out of the hit '50s show Mad Men. I adore this dress because it’s not a polka dot overload, but a simplified version of a classic look that will never lose its charm. The dress looks like it’s a two-piece because of its classic black and white tank separated by a thick black belt tied in a bow that starts the extension of the black skirt decorated with large white polka dots. Below the polka dot pattern is a thick red trim that marks the end of the sassy design. I love the way the stripes and dots balance beautifully to create such a polished look.

DKNY Combo Dot Tank Dress
DKNY Combo Dot Dress

$245.00
Available at: saks.com

Those who like to cover their legs may want to think about grabbing this carefree Bebe Cool Dot Maxi Dress, which comes in both black in white. The featured dress is black with tiny white polka dots. The long length of this dress is sexified by the button closures. So, if you’re in the mood to show more skin then usual it’s an easy and quick adjustment. The dress is cinched at the waist with a thin matching belt. For a more dramatic, vavoom look around this sensual maxi, try wrapping a polka dot scarf around the waist or around the neck for a quirky spin. The Bebe Polka Dot Scarf is a great scarf because it’s long enough to get creative with.

It’s not certain how polka dots came about, but we do know Minnie Mouse rocked it well. However this trend started, its got spunk while being classic.

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Kim Moshtaghi
Kim Moshtaghi is a contributing writer for Adventures in the Stiletto Jungle. Born in Germany, Kim is currently based in sunny Del Mar, California, where she also serves as Stiletto Jungle's Director of Sales and Promotions. Kim has a communications degree, a third degree black belt, and a totally covetable Gucci handbag collection.