DEB'S STYLE

How to Style Polka Dot Pants in a Chic, Modern Way

Polka Dot pants are a wardrobe classic print that never goes out of style, but to make them look modern, you need to put some thought into what you wear up top. Here are three modern ways to style polka-dot pants for a chic, youthful, and on-trend look.  

 

black straight leg polka dot pants

polka dot pants | black top

 

1. Wear Polka Dot Pants with a Solid Neutral Top

Polka dot pants are cute but busy, so to tone them down and make your look more elegant, simply pair them with a modern top in the base color of the pants. So, with navy polka-dot pants, wear a navy top; with brown polka-dot pants, wear a brown top; and with black polka-dot pants, wear a black top. This is a sleek modern look that is chic, mature, and also elongating1

 

polka dot pants, green sweater

2. Try a Pop of Bright Color With Polka Dot Pants

The classic way to style polka dot pants is, as I mentioned above, to match the top’s color to the pants’ color. However, if you’re looking for a more daring option, try pairing a bright, solid-colored top in a contrasting color with your polka-dot pants.  This is a more fashion-forward look that is bold and fun. For example, I love a fuchsia jacket with black and white polka-dot pants or an emerald green sweater with navy and white polka-dot pants.

 

 

polka dot pants blue striped sweater

3. Combine Stripes with Polka Dot Pants

Polka dot pants combined with a striped top is a fun, playful mix. The key here is to keep both the top and bottom within the same color family, this time to achieve a continuous flow from top to bottom.

Mixing prints is a creative look; using the same colors makes the look elegant instead of confusing to the eye. If you want to take it one step further, you can add a third color, such as a bright bag or a colorful shoe; however, for my taste, it’s a bit much.

Polka Dot Blouse | Polka Dot Pants

4. Slip on a Polka Dot Set

This look is definitely for the brave. It’s fashion forward, chic…but it can also look like you are wearing your jammies! This can be a striking outfit on the right person. It takes confidence, and being 5’10” and over doesn’t hurt, too! (LOL!)

 

5. Wear Polka Dot Pants with Florals

Florals also pair well with Polka dots and are great for adding a romantic touch. As with the stripes, stick to the same color family to ensure your outfit looks intentional and not just mismatched. 

I hope you’ve picked up some good ideas and that you try these out if you buy a pair of polka-dot pants, shorts, capris, or a dress! This styling approach works for all polka-dot pants.

Rather have a top? Here’s how to wear a Polka Dot Blouse without looking Clownish.

Visited 2,591 times, 1 visit(s) today

Meet the author

Deborah Boland

Deborah, a former Fashion & Lifestyle TV host and Image Consultant, understands the style challenges women face in their 40s, 50s, and 60s. As the founder of Fabulous After 40, she helps women tweak their chic and embrace fashion with confidence—so they always look and feel amazing.

Fabulous after 40 has affiliate partnerships. We receive compensation when you click and make a purchase at no additional cost to you. So, Thank You!

Join the Conversation

2 thoughts on “How to Style Polka Dot Pants in a Chic, Modern Way

  1. Hi
    This is the first time I have ordered from your blog. It is a pair of casual shoes In green from Noracora. So cute with good reviews.
    I am excited to receive them.
    Keep up the casual clothes ideas. Thank you.