Dotty for polka dots! Why Princess Diana’s favourite print is making a comeback on the high street – and the royals who haven’t stopped wearing it
Bold fashion choices defined the style of the late Princess Diana, who was known for her daring prints which captivated audiences worldwide.
Among her most-loved was the playful polka dot, a pattern that has firmly secured its place in royal fashion after being embraced by contemporary icons, including the present Princess of Wales.
Interestingly, this timeless print is experiencing a resurgence on the runways, with designers such as Carolina Herrera and Valentino showcasing 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 chic refresh for 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 favourite in fashion.
In anticipation of its revival, we reflect on the best royal outfits featuring polka dot motifs, highlighting how it continues to charm and inspire generations.
Princess Diana
Paul Costelloe served as Princess Diana’s personal designer from 1982 until her death in 1997.
In the early 90s, he designed a standout polka dot ensemble that quickly became one of Diana’s favourites.
The look comprised a smart, single-breasted blazer and co-ordinating skirt, in a classic black and white palette.
Even the borders of the pockets were adorned with spots, adding to the co-ordinated charm of the outfit.
In the early 90s, Paul Costelloe designed a standout polka dot ensemble which quickly became one of Diana’s favourite outfits
Catherine, Princess of Wales
Kate embodied timeless elegance at the Service of Thanksgiving for Prince Philip in March 2022.
She chose a stunning Alessandra Rich dress with a high neckline, puffed mutton sleeves and a drop-waisted pleated skirt – an outfit 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 which she wore to attend the Service of Thanksgiving for Prince Philip in 2022
Princess Beatrice
Arriving at Royal Ascot in 2022, Princess Beatrice made an instant impression with her eye-catching dress.
Designed by Saloni, the demure frock boasted softly puffed sleeves and a mid-length skirt, as well as the brand’s signature crystal bow detailing.
To complement her polka dot dress, Beatrice opted for classic black court shoes and carried a sleek snakeskin leather clutch.
Arriving at Royal Ascot in 2022, Princess Beatrice made an instant impression with her eye-catching dress by Saloni
Sarah, Duchess of York
Sarah Ferguson embraced 80s fashion with polka dot skirt suit, worn to Derby Day at Epsom in 1987.
Her stunning two-piece, featuring a tailored blazer and pencil skirt, was perfectly matched with white gloves and two-tone pumps.
However, it was her hat, adorned with miniature pom-poms, which truly stole the show.
Sarah Ferguson embraced 80s fashion with flair in a polka dot skirt suit at the 1987 Derby Day
Princess Margaret
Princess Margaret was a global fashion icon who embraced the trends of each decade.
In the 50s, she introduced polka dot prints into the royal wardrobe, often in the form of ladylike tea dresses.
One standout piece featured a full skirt with contrasting collar and cuffs, accented with a diamond brooch.
In the 1950s, Princess Margaret introduced polka dot prints into the royal wardrobe, often opting for ladylike tea dresses
Lady Amelia Windsor
Lady Amelia Windsor upheld her reputation as a fashionista at the opening of an exhibition in May 2023 by wearing a dotted dress by Senorita.
The dress combined a satin halterneck bodice with a tiered skirt, which gracefully fell to her ankle.
She complemented the look with a Lulu Guinness bag and charming low block heels by Pretty Ballerinas.
Lady Amelia Windsor upheld her reputation as a fashionista with this dotted dress by Senorita, which she wore to the opening of an exhibition in 2023
Queen Mary of Denmark
Queen Mary of Denmark radiated elegance in a Black Halo polka dot dress with a body-skimming 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 yet 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 body-skimming silhouette which beautifully highlighted her figure
Meghan, Duchess of Sussex
Meghan elevated polo glamour while attending a match in Santa Barbara, California, to support her husband Prince Harry in 2022.
The former Suits actress sported a chic Celine polka dot tie-neck blouse, 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 swipe of red lipstick.
Meghan Markle sported a chic Celine polka dot tie-neck blouse, which she paired with voluminous Khaite shorts and Aquazzura heels
