Most Wanted

It’s official: fashion has gone positively dotty for polka dots. A trend kick-started by Alessandro Michele in his debut collection for Valentino Garavani two years ago, the print has experienced a revival on the runways that reached its peak this season. Brands including Khaite, Dries Van Noten and Junya Watanabe all offered a fresh perspective on how to wear polka dots now, with patterns ranging from bold and cinematic to graphic and directional.

“Polka dots are such a fun way to inject playfulness into your spring wardrobe,” says NET-A-PORTER’s junior shopping editor, Millie Parry. “I particularly loved how Khaite reimagined them this season. I’ll be styling the ‘Tatia’ mini dress over denim or leather pants to keep that fashion-forward edge, finishing the look with ballet flats and oval-frame sunglasses.”

At Dries Van Noten, Julian Klausner experimented with bold, op-art spots in an array of colors and textures on the spring/summer 2026 runway, but if one piece caught our attention it was this duchesse-satin mini dress – the supersized spots are enough to stop anyone in their tracks. Take cues from the show by styling yours with the matching coat, or if you’re brave enough, try layering over Junya Watanabe’s contrasting polka-dot pants.

Not quite ready to commit to the look from top-to-toe? Consider an accessory instead. Amina Muaddi’s ‘Alexa’ mules look so chic paired with capris and an oversized leather jacket, while Valentino Garavani’s polka-dot shoulder bag will add a playful touch to off-duty and evening outfits. Alternatively, if your style is very much centered around jeans and a nice top, then upgrade your capsule with Nili Lotan’s ‘Alla’ blouse in sheer polka-dot chiffon.

Browse more in this week’s New In.