How to Wear Polka Dots for Women

Learning how to wear polka dots for women will keep you from looking dotty. These are 4 ideas for polka dot accessories and attire for the mature woman.

One Polka Dot Piece At a Time:

Limit yourself to one piece of polka dot attire at a time. Wear solid shoes if you are going to wear a polka dot dress. Wear a solid dress if you are going to carry a polka dot handbag. Wearing polka dots from head to toe can make women look like cartoon characters even if each piece is attractive by itself.

Simplify the Rest of Your Outfit:

Even women who are a little shy about wearing polka dots after childhood can find conservative looks that won't make them feel uncomfortable. Search out polka dot clothing with understated styles and avoid harsh colors. This structured strapless dress from Alice by Temperley is a classic summer favorite in deep scarlet with white polka dots. It's a sophisticated 50's look with any black patent shoes and other accessories. With an angular sweetheart neck, fitted bodice, and gathered waist, it's done in 50% cotton and 50% silk. ($425)

Remember the Itsy Bitsy Teeny Weeny Yellow Polka Dot Bikini:

Many women will relax their rules when it comes to casual occasions such as beachwear and pajamas as opposed to what they'll wear to the office. Then again, even if you dress conservatively for work, no one has to know if you want to indulge in some polka dot bras and panties. For a bikini try the Betsy Johnson "At the Hop" with a bold black and white polka dot pattern and brightly colored aqua bow trimming the strapless underwire bra with boned construction, light foam padding and optional halter straps. The high cut bottoms feature aqua trim on the sides. ($94 top, $68 bottoms)

Use Polka Dot Accessories:

Accessories are the easiest way for women to work some polka dots into their outfits without worrying about going overboard. You can experiment with everything from hair accessories to shoes. Polka dots are always reappearing every season to some extent so you can get years of use out of any good quality piece. In winter, polka dots can brighten ordinary mittens and hats. For summer, you always need another pair of flip flops. Try these comfortable Rafters with multi-colored polka dot fabric uppers and contoured footbeds with heel cushions and arch support. ($24.95)

Just because you're a grown woman, you don't have to surrender your right to wear polka dots.