How to Wear Polka Dots and Not Look Like a Clown

Think you can't wear polka dots? Think again! Polka dots aren't just for kids, clowns and Betty Boop. They're perennially chic, adding interest and charm to just about any outfit. Here are the basics on how to wear polka dots.

Retro Style

One of my favorite ways to wear polka dots is in classic shapes. Polka dots always evoke cool retro styling for me - think pin-up girls, full-coverage bathing suits and old-school glamour. When paired with items in classic shapes, polka dots can look downright demure. Think Jackie O in a short shift dress and oversized sunglasses, or Grace Kelly in a white blouse and full polka-dotted skirt. Polka dots are often worn for a retro look in the punk/rockabilly community as well, along with other "classic" patterns such as cherries and gingham. Check out these retro looks:

Polka dot shift dress

Full polka dot skirt

Rockabilly polka dot dress

Whimsical Chic

If the retro look is a little too stuffy for you, wear polka dots with color! Not all polka dot looks will look good with colors, so make sure to stick to a basic palette. Go for classic-colored polka dots with brightly colored separates, or vice versa. If your polka-dotted item contains a loud color like red or yellow, you'll want to make that your "colorful" item too and stick to neutrals elsewhere. This will keep you from looking clownish. Polka dots are very fun and charming when worn right, but take it too far and you'll look ridiculous. Here are some examples that combine polka dots with color and manage to get it right.

Polka dot top with green skirt and flats

Jennifer Garner's red and white polka dot sweater

Polka dot sweater with blue jeans and neutral belt

With Patterns

In most cases, wearing polka dots with patterns is a big no. Polka dots with paisley or plaids? Not so much. There are, however, two very sweet exceptions to this rule: florals and stripes. This is sort of an "advanced" look fashion-wise, so if you're just starting out experimenting with polka dots you may want to hold off before trying this. It doesn't always work and can go WAY wrong. When pulled off, however, polka dots with stripes look very cool and give off that "this old thing?" vibe. Paired with florals, polka dots become very sweet - these looks often make their way into fashion magazines come spring, when fluttery sundresses are making the rounds. Here are some examples of patterns paired correctly.

Polka dot top with bright sweater and floral skirt

Polka dots with stripes

Polka dot skirt with floral top

These are just 3 of the many ways you can work a polka dot look into your wardrobe. If you're feeling really timid, why not try out some accessories first? A scarf, bag, or pair of sunglasses will let you test drive the pattern without making a huge investment. Try out discount fashion shops like Forever 21, Claire's or Target to find low-cost, wearable polka dots.