Bold fashion choices defined the style of the late Princess Diana, known for her bold prints that captivated audiences around the world.
Among her favorites was the playful polka dot print, a pattern that has firmly secured its place in royal fashion after being adopted by contemporary icons including the current Princess of Wales.
Interestingly, this timeless print is making a resurgence on the runways, with designers like Carolina Herrera and Valentino sporting polka dots in their recent Fashion Week collections.
A striking white dot on a black background emerges as the latest interpretation of this classic trend, offering a stylish update to the modern wardrobe.
The latest royal to embrace the trend is Sarah, Duchess of York, who stepped out wearing a skater style for an engagement in Perth, Australia, earlier this week.
The latest royal to embrace the polka dot trend is Sarah, Duchess of York, who stepped out wearing a skater style for an engagement in Perth, Australia, in November.
This iconic print can be styled to suit both casual and formal occasions, making it a perennial fashion favorite.
In anticipation of its resurgence, we reflect on the best royal costumes with polka dot motifs, highlighting how it continues to delight and inspire generations.
princess diana
Paul Costelloe was Princess Diana’s personal designer from 1982 until her death in 1997.
In the early ’90s, she designed a striking polka dot ensemble that quickly became one of Diana’s favorites.
The look consisted of a sleek single-breasted jacket and matching skirt, in a classic black and white palette.
Even the edges of the pockets were adorned with spots, adding to the coordinated charm of the ensemble.
In the early ’90s, Paul Costelloe designed a striking polka dot ensemble that quickly became one of Diana’s favorite outfits.
Catherine, Princess of Wales
Kate embodied timeless elegance at the Thanksgiving Service in honor of Prince Philip in March 2022.
She chose a stunning Alessandra Rich dress with a high neckline, puffed sleeves and a drop-waist pleated skirt, an ensemble reminiscent of something Diana might have worn.
To complete the look, Kate paid tribute to her late mother-in-law by wearing her pearl earrings, adding a Russell & Bromley clutch, Gianvito Rossi heels and a Lock & Co hat.
Kate embodied timeless elegance in a stunning Alessandra Rich dress that she wore to attend Prince Philip’s Thanksgiving Service in 2022.
princess beatrice
Arriving at Royal Ascot in 2022, Princess Beatrice made an instant impression in her striking dress.
Designed by Saloni, the demure dress featured softly puffed sleeves and a mid-length skirt, as well as the brand’s signature crystal bow detail.
To complement her polka dot dress, Beatrice opted for classic black pumps and carried a chic snakeskin clutch.
Arriving at Royal Ascot in 2022, Princess Beatrice made an instant impression in her striking Saloni dress.
Sarah, Duchess of York
Sarah Ferguson embraced 80s fashion with a polka dot skirt suit, worn to Derby Day at Epsom in 1987.
Her stunning two-piece suit, which included a tailored jacket and pencil skirt, paired perfectly with white gloves and two-tone pumps.
However, it was her hat, adorned with miniature pom-poms, that really stole the show.
Sarah Ferguson embraced ’80s fashion in style in a polka dot skirt suit at Derby Day in 1987
princess daisy
Princess Margaret was a global fashion icon who embraced the trends of each decade.
In the 1950s, she introduced polka dot prints to the royal wardrobe, often in the form of feminine tea dresses.
One standout piece featured a full skirt with contrast collar and cuffs, accented with a diamond brooch.
In the 1950s, Princess Margaret introduced polka dot prints to the royal wardrobe, often opting for feminine tea dresses.
Lady Amelia Windsor
Lady Amelia Windsor maintained her reputation as a fashionista at an exhibition opening in May 2023 wearing a polka dot dress by Senorita.
The dress combined a halter-neck satin bodice and a tiered skirt that fell elegantly to the ankle.
She finished the look with a Lulu Guinness bag and lovely Pretty Ballerinas kitten heels.
Lady Amelia Windsor maintained her reputation as a fashionista with this polka dot Senorita dress, which she wore to an exhibition opening in 2023.
Queen Mary of Denmark
Queen Mary of Denmark radiated elegance in a Black Halo polka dot dress with a form-fitting silhouette that beautifully highlighted her figure.
To enhance the look, she added a Prada belt to cinch her waist and Gianvito Rossi heels, creating a refined but understated look.
The ensemble strikes a balance, making it ideal for both formal and semi-formal occasions.
Queen Mary of Denmark radiated elegance in this Black Halo polka dot dress, with a form-fitting silhouette that beautifully highlighted her figure.
Meghan, Duchess of Sussex
Meghan upped the glamor of polo while attending a match in Santa Barbara, California, to support her husband, Prince Harry, in 2022.
The former Suits actress wore a chic Celine polka dot blouse with a tie neck, paired with voluminous Khaite shorts and Aquazzura heels, resulting in an outfit that oozed sophistication.
To complete the look, she added a wide-brimmed hat, oversized sunglasses, and a bold pop of red lipstick.
Meghan Markle wore an elegant Celine polka dot blouse with a tie neck, which she paired with voluminous Khaite shorts and Aquazzura heels.