The retro fashion trend dominating summer– and how to style it on a budget to look modern

Staff
By Staff

From runway to high street, polka dots have taken over this summer and we’ve found the best spotty style buys from River Island, Nobody’s Child and more

Best polka dot style buys on the high street
Best polka dot style buys on the high street and how to style them on a budget (Image: Mirror)

Polka dots are reigning supreme this summer, especially when it comes to occasionwear. The high street is full of spotty pieces right now, and we’re not complaining.

The Royal-approved polka dot print has been spotted on countless members of the family, including Princess Kate, the late Princess Diana, Zara Tindall and Princess Beatrice. And it’s not just the royals who love it, this trending print has been taking over 2025, with celebs like Amanda Holden and Rochelle Humes also sporting it.

If you want to hop on the trend yourself, we’ve found the very best polka dot fashion buys on the high street. From event-ready maxi dresses to versatile tops and tailored sets, check out our top picks from £19.

FRIENDS LIKE THESE

Friends Like These top
A versatile addition to your wardrobe(Image: Friends Like These)

If you’ve been looking for the perfect top to complete your ‘jeans and a nice top’ oufit formula, this draped one from Friends Like These is just the one. Whether you’re keeping things casual with some denim jeans or dresssing it up with a silky black midi skirt, this is the kind of top you’ll be reaching for again and again, summer and autumn.

SHOP THE LOOK: Black Spot Draped Off The Shoulder Top, £35 here

FOREVER NEW

Forever New dress
Perfect for weddings or garden parties(Image: Forever New )

Although it is probably best to avoid a prominetly white dress if you’re attending a wedding, polka dot dresses are great occasionwear pieces for other events like the races, garden parties or even fancy dinners. This strapless one from Forever New looks so chic and even more expensive than the price tag. Simply chuck on a pair of strappy heels and some chunky earrings, and you’re good to go.

SHOP THE LOOK: Kimora Strapless Midi Dress, £120 here

RIVER ISLAND

River Island co-ord
This tailored set is perfect for summer(Image: River Island )

If you’re a big fan of the print, why not go for a matching set or head-to-toe look? River Island always release the cutest tailored co-ord, adn this polka print one is no exception. Team it with monochromatic white and black accessories for a chic but fun look.

SHOP THE LOOK: Black Polka Frill Linen Tailored Top, £39 here, and Black Linen Blend Polka Dot Tailored Shorts, currently £19 here

NOBODY’S CHILD

Nobody's Child dress
One of summer’s trendiest style buys(Image: Nobody’s Child )

One of the most viral dresses of the summer can from Nobody’s Child with this gorgeous ruched bandeau spotted midi. This versatile dress works for any occasion from sailing through the Amalfi coast to walking through the street of London or out for an evening with friends. An after selling out earlier this summer, it’s officially back in stock in all sizes.

SHOP THE LOOK: White Polka Dot Bandeau Felicity Midi Dress, £99 here

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