Princess Diana And The Power of the Polka Dot

Tianna Robinson | July 26th, 2013

Worn by Princess Diana on the day she proudly presented her newborn son, William, to the world polka dots have proven their longevity.

Even Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, delighted the world in her own polka dot dress when she was first pictured with her newborn, George. The dress, by Jenny Packham, quickly sold out.

Let’s not be naive. Polka dots aren’t just for babies. It can be used in a variety of colours and make the most classic staples shine. Take a look at how these celebrities play the polka dot game.

We start with the Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, who proves you don’t have to be sartorially adventurous to pull off a polka dot with ease. Choose a big print and break the pattern with a jacket for a more conservative approach.

Gentlemen, not so fast! Don’t think you’ve been left out. Take a page from actor-director Paul Feig’s fashion book by showing off just a little bit of your spots. And don’t be afraid to pattern block, adding a bit of flare to a classic suit and tie look.

Polk dots take on a different persona when worn in darker colours like black and grey, as shown with Julie Andrews. Who knew the big polka dot could look so sophisticated?

And, of course, you can wow the crowd in a polka dot suit! The smaller dots shown here on Barbara Walters are flattering in a structured suit that you can use to camouflage any “problem areas.”

This article originally appeared on Everything Zoomer on July 2013.