If there's one staple in Kate Middleton's royal wardrobe, it has to be the classic polka dot dress. Kate has been rocking polka dot dresses for over ten years, even sporting a budget-friendly £38 polka dot mini dress from Topshop in 2013 when pregnant with Prince George. Ever since, the Princess has regularly been seen rocking a chic polka dot dress for her Royal duties and special occasions, cementing it as a timeless style. So, we've found the best polka dot dresses top shop this season, inspired by Kate's own wardrobe.
Closer's pick of the best polka dot dresses, at a glance:
We personally love to turn to the Royals for style inspiration, whether it’s Megan Markle’s With Love, Meghan outfits or Kate’s recent outing in a checked Zara dress. But the outfits that live rent free in our head are without a doubt Kate’s polka dot dresses. Besides from the infamous Topshop dress of 2013, Kate’s other dresses tend to be by London-based Italian designer, Alessandra Rich. One of her most iconic dotty looks has to be the white and brown high neck midi dress she wore to Royal Ascot in 2022. The Princess of Wales wore a very similar Alessandra Rich design the following year during the Order Of The Garter Service at Windsor Castle.
While these two designer frocks are both white, Kate is also rather partial to a coloured polka dot dress. She wore two different blue styles to Wimbledon in 2022, both by Alessandra Rich. She styled both outfits with the same pair of slingback stiletto heels, for a sophisticated look.
It’s safe to say that Kate has given the polka dot dress a royal seal of approval. The good news is, the high street has no shortage of spotty designs this spring that can help you recreate her elegant style with ease without the designer price tag. We’ve tracked down the very best polka dot dresses that still emulate the same classy princess vibes, including the viral Nobody’s Child polka dot dressthat’s set to be a sell-out.
SHOP: The best polka dot dresses, inspired by Kate Middleton
Best dupe for Kate's polka dot dress
Sosandarwww.marksandspencer.com
To recreate Kate's iconic Alessandra Rich polka dot dress look from Ascot in 2022, this style from Sosandar is very similar. With a high neck, belted waist, midi length and long sleeves it's ticking all the right boxes. The designer inspired frock is selling out fast, so you'll have to be quick.
Best bodycon polka dot dress
M&Swww.marksandspencer.com
As per usual, M&S have been absolutely killing it recently. Their latest drop for SS25 has been a major hit with customers, with the standout pieces flying off of the shelves - literally. A firm favourite is this sleeveless polka dot midaxi dress that oozes buckets of style. We love the ruched detailing, which ensures a flattering tummy-skimming fit.
Best halter neck polka dot dress
New LookRomantic ruffles and floaty chiffon fabrics were all over the catwalks and have filtered through to the high street, with stunning styles like this New Look maxi dress. For under £50 you can snap up a truly beautiful dress, perfect for all your summer occasions. It features a playful halter cowl neck, too.
Best bandeau polka dot dress
Nobody's Childwww.nobodyschild.com
Nobody's Child's Felicity Dress was a big hit in 2024 and this year it's back in even more beautiful prints and designs. The most popular variation is the new polka dot style that has already been spotted all over our Instagram feeds. The strapless dress has a flattering fit-and-flare cut and comes with optional spaghetti straps.
Best polka dot shirt dress
Mangoshop.mango.com
Kate Middleton is a big fan of a polka dot shirt dress, the sophisticated style is a staple in her royal wardrobe. We could see this design from Mango fitting in seamlessly with the Princess' other pieces. It has a smart collar and a belted waist to help you create a stunning silhouette. Wear for work, summer parties and everything in between.
Best navy polka dot dress
Finerywww.finerylondon.com
If your favourite Kate Middleton polka dot dress is her navy frock from Wimbledon in 2022, then this is the high street dupe you need to check out. The classic tea dress is the epitome timeless style. It's made from a crease free fabric and features chic short puff sleeves.
Best polka dot wrap dress
& Other Storieswww.stories.com
You can never go wrong with a wrap midi dress - especially in a monochrome polka dot print. The flattering dress style is great for all body types. It cinches at the waist to create a gorgeous hourglass shape, while the v-neckline helps to elongate your neck. This & Other Stories frock is a classic piece you can wear year after year.
Emma White is a Senior Style Writer for heat, Closer, Bella and Yours, where she covers all things fashion and beauty. As a lover of high street fashion and someone who unashamedly trawls the new in sections of Mango, Zara and H&M on an almost daily basis, Emma is your go-to person for any what to wear woes.