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Revisiting the magic of classic polka dots that first appeared in Godey’s Lady’s Book

t2 tells you how to flaunt them in style 

Debanjoli Nandi Published 08.08.23, 10:37 AM

Pictures: Getty Images

Polka dots are classic. It is believed the term ‘polka dots’ first appeared in Godey’s Lady’s Book in 1857 and the motif has been embraced time and again, from Walt Disney’s Minnie Mouse to Princess Diana, her daughter-in-law, Kate Middleton, and American actress Marilyn Monroe, to name a few. Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama, often referred to as the queen of polka dots, described the rounded patterns as “polka-dots are a way to infinity”. t2 spoke to city stylists and fashionistas on how to style your polkas.

Apparels...

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“Styling with polka is so much fun. When you have polka on mind, just make sure to choose the colour of your top/ bottom and layer clothes very carefully,” says Anupam Chatterjee, stylist and designer. Choose what size polkas look good on you. “For the top, I always prefer smaller dots and on jumpsuits too, the dots can be smaller. Jackets, however, need preferably bigger prints. For corsets and skirts, a little bit of experimentation is nice. One needs to be very specific about choosing the bottom and the top. If the bottom has white polka dots on black fabric, you can wear a black top. Polkas can be used in so many ways and are not limited to black and white,” says Anupam.

Stylista Davina Thacker is all for “funky-coloured polka dots”. “They look striking. Polka dots can really make you stand out and be spotted easily in a crowded place. One, however, can wear a subtle-colour polka dot too if one is not that confident. Maybe a baby blue polka dot on a white outfit?” she says.

Skirts, denims, jumpsuits, Korean pants, palazzos... polkas are versatile and can rock a variety of silhouettes. “If you are fond of boyfriend denim pants, opt for a black spaghetti top along with a sheer polka-dotted top tucked in. The sleeves might have a little drama. With blue denims, wear white polka dots on a black tie-up, balloon-sleeved top,” says Anupam.

Accessories...

Accessorise your polkas smart. “The polka dot is one thing that needs no reintroduction. It is always there. You can even turn a dotted piece of cloth into a hair band. Accentuate the look with winged eyeliner and nude make-up,” says Madhab Sarkar, stylist. Anupam suggests polka-dotted belts. For your flared bottoms, try combining them with a polka-dotted jacket and a trendy bag.

Davina’s vote goes to “colour-blocked purse”, among others. “For footwear, one can go for wedges, mules and kitten heels. That will make for an elegant look. Polka dresses look amazing with hair tied up in a pony with plain, simple scrunchies,” she adds.

Anupam likes the pearl-polka combination. “Pearl is something that never goes wrong with polka. If you are wearing black polka on white fabric, up your fashion game by opting for vertically striped, knee-length skirts with black stilettos. If you are tying up your hair, accentuate your neckline with a pearl statement piece. I would prefer the ears to be kept bare,” he says. Black polka-dotted shirt on a white base + hot pink skirt + a pair of black/white palm shoes/wedges is his other idea. “Accessorise the outfit with a nice tote bag and a watch/bracelet,” he says.

Add chunky watches, hoops and tan brown shoes to complement your polka game.

Anupam’s top tip is to work towards balance. “Polka dot is a lot of drama in itself. So the outfit and accessories should have a balance and can’t be over the top,” he says.

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