25 Polka-Dot Outfits to Try This Spring — Plus, Our Favourite Pieces Starting at $12

Prints can easily feel intimidating, especially if you're mostly drawn to neutral tones like me. Yes, I do fancy myself the occasional colour pop, but typically in the form of a solid or entry-level floral. Prints just have a way of feeling overly fussy for me with the rare exception of classic stripes or, when I'm feeling a bit bolder, polka dots.

OK, sure. Polka dots are pretty mild in the print world, but considering my comfort zone is a feminine bloom or Breton, I'd say "bold" is a fair descriptor.

While I've admired them from afar, I've struggled with styling polka-dot pieces in a way that feels elevated instead of childlike. And while they usually come in comfortable shades of black and white, I somehow lack the ability to wear them at work without feeling out of step. But this is all about to change.

I'm determined to become a polka-dot professional. Why? After spotting plenty of dotted pieces in designer collections for Spring/Summer 2020, I've decided I must give the look a try. From darling dresses to cool button-down shirts and cropped pants, I feel as though it's a look I can finally master. And who better to provide me with endless outfit inspiration than the always-stylish women of the street-style scene?

Ahead, witness 25 polka-dot outfits I'll be attempting to re-create this season. Plus, my edit of polka-dot pieces, starting at just $12.

How to Wear Polka Dots

Break out of the black-and-white mold, and embrace a brightly coloured polka-dot dress. A colourful bag and sneakers are playfully casual additions.

Faithfull the Brand Edwina Polka Dot Minidress

Faithfull the Brand Edwina Polka Dot Minidress [2] ($169)

How to Wear Polka Dots

Mix your dots by pairing together an oversize pattern with a smaller dot. For a streamlined effect, sticking to a tonal palette will make the bold combo feel easier.

Alice + Olivia Gleeson Wool-Blend Sweater

Alice + Olivia Gleeson Wool-Blend Sweater [3] ($119)

Silk Laundry 90s Silk Slip Dress

Silk Laundry 90s Silk Slip Dress [4] ($275)

How to Wear Polka Dots

Transition into Spring by styling a mock-neck polka-dot tank with a full skirt and tough combat boots.

Boden Thomasina High Neck Top

Boden Thomasina High Neck Top [5] ($60)

How to Wear Polka Dots

Give a colourful polka-dot dress an edgier feel by adding a thick waist belt and sleek combat boots.

POPSUGAR Long Sleeve Smocked Dress

POPSUGAR Long Sleeve Smocked Dress [6] ($25, originally $50)

How to Wear Polka Dots

For minimalist tastes, a brown pair of polka-dot pants feel unfussy with a crewneck sweater in a creamy shade.

Stine Goya John Polka Dot Pants

Stine Goya John Polka Dot Pants [7] ($460)

How to Wear Polka Dots

Tall boots and shorts are a big look this season. Give the outfit formula a try with a pair of spotted shorts and a colourful blazer to finish.

Bershka Short Paperbag Skirt

Bershka Short Paperbag Skirt [8] ($30)

How to Wear Polka Dots

Leather pants make a polka-dot blouse and trousers combo feel fresh and edgy.

Eloquii Tie Neck Blouse

Eloquii Tie Neck Blouse [9] ($80)

How to Wear Polka Dots

Temper the sweetness of a polka dot by styling an oversize blazer over top and finishing with combat boots.

Heartloom Londyn Dress

Heartloom Londyn Dress [10] ($65, originally $129)

How to Wear Polka Dots

'70s-style lapels are big this Spring. So, why not try the trend in polka-dot form?

ALEXACHUNG Polka-Dot Satin Shirt

ALEXACHUNG Polka-Dot Satin Shirt [11] ($270)

How to Wear Polka Dots

A multicolored polka-dot dress is night-out ready with the help of a leather jacket and heeled boots.

Reformation Jaylee Dress

Reformation Jaylee Dress [12] ($248)

How to Wear Polka Dots

If blazers tend to feel dull to you, a polka-dot version is a playful take on tailoring.

Baum und Pferdgarten Bente Dot Quilted Blazer

Baum und Pferdgarten Bente Dot Quilted Blazer [13] ($259)

How to Wear Polka Dots

The easiest way to rock dots this Spring? A silk hair scarf whether tied around a ponytail or worn as a headband.

Urban Outfitters Slim Silky Scarf

Urban Outfitters Slim Silky Scarf [14] ($12)

How to Wear Polka Dots

Polka dots can feel sexy in the form of a minidress with sheer tights and heels in the mix.

Zara Polka Dot Print Dress

Zara Polka Dot Print Dress [15] ($50)

How to Wear Polka Dots

For a feminine take on spots, try an asymmetrical midi skirt with a puff-sleeve top.

Sandro Polka Dot Pleat Skirt

Sandro Polka Dot Pleat Skirt [16] ($295)

How to Wear Polka Dots

Neutral-lovers, take note: a polka-dot shirt with white jeans and black accessories looks fresh and graphic for Spring. For a skosh of nonchalance, let your shirt billow loosely over your pants, or half-tuck it for a little more shape.