“My yellow polka dot bikini…” today we will go beyond the bikini. In fact, we will talk about the entire history of polka dots, this classic print
If you thought that polka dot prints, or rather, polka dots, petit-pois or polka dots, went out of fashion a long time ago, you are very wrong. Firstly, the polka dot print, in addition to being a classic piece, is also a timeless print that never leaves fashionistas’ wardrobes.
Above all, polka dots have been a classic in fashion since the 1950s. However, polka dot fashion has now diversified a little more. Well, before this print was limited to the combination of black and white. Nowadays, this pattern has gained new colors, shapes and dimensions.
It can even be combined with other prints. Like stripes, animal prints and florals. In fact, it became so popular that today you can find polka dots not only on clothes, but also on accessories, nails, decorative objects and even in men’s fashion.
In general, this popularization was due to its fun print, which, in fact, gives a vintage touch to the productions. After all, polka dots were previously closely associated with the clothes of girls who loved the pin-up style, a very common style from the 40s and 50s.
The origin of the classic print
Above all, the polka dot print did not appear and become popular overnight. In fact, poá was inspired by a musical style called polka. Generally speaking, this style was brought to America by immigrants from Eastern Europe.
But what does this have to do with balls? Basically, these immigrants had a culture of dancing in circular formats. Therefore, they created costumes that referred to this dance. In other words, costumes with large polka dots printed on them. And from there, the term polka dots, or polka dots, in English, emerged.
However, the popularization of poá occurred some time later. But, before that, Walt Disney, in 1928, created the character Minnie Mouse. In case you didn’t know, Minnie’s costume is all polka dots. Out of curiosity, Walt Disney didn’t choose the polka dot costume for nothing.
In fact, he chose polka dots, as the prints of the time, plaid and stripes were no longer new. Therefore, for him, polka dots would be a new and different print for the time. After Minnie, polka dot became popular in the 50s, and since then, it has become known as a beloved print.
Popularization of poá
Above all, poá, as we have already said, had its heyday in the 1950s, and more specifically in the post-war period. Basically, in this post-war period, people were looking for happier, more interesting and fun things. Thus, the polka dot print began to be the most used of all.
In fact, it became popular after Dior collections and also some Hollywood stars, such as Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn, wore it. Consequently, she became a symbol of romanticism and femininity. After this boom in fashion, some songs also started to use this print in the lyrics.
For example, in 1960, the song “Itsy bitsy teenie wennie yellow polka dot bikini”, performed by Brian Hyland became extremely famous. So much so that it reached Billboard’s Top 100 list. In addition to being re-recorded by other countries. Among them, Brazil.
For us Brazilians, the song became best known in the voice of Celly Campello, with the title “Biquíni de Bolinha Amarelinha”. Therefore, this print became popular not only in fashion, but also in music and accessories. In fact, it is no wonder that she is loved by all generations, including the current one.
In fact, the polka dot has now returned a little more striking and modern. It is worth noting that he even appeared on the catwalks at Fashion Weeks, in streetstyle and in the looks of trendsetters around the world. In other words, it really is a print that suits all tastes and styles.
Poá these days
Firstly, it is important to highlight that poá appears today in a more modern way, but without leaving the traditional. So much so that today you not only find polka dots in black and white. You can also find more colorful summers, such as orange and pink.
In general, this print is recommended for those who like classic and fun clothes at the same time. Above all, for those interested in this print, we recommend that you create combinations without excess and that make sense with each other.
For example, wearing a polka dot dress. Or, a single piece with the print. For example, a polka dot blouse, with a long skirt and a vest. What’s more, you can opt for polka dot prints in just the details of the clothes. Like pantyhose or transparent shoes.
Another idea that is actually super trendy for summer are gypsy-style blouses with polka dot prints. Basically, the idea is to combine prints with more modern pieces. Like pants, cropped, midi skirt. Or even an oversized blazer. After all, the important thing is that you feel comfortable and stylish at the same time.
Leaving the traditional
If you want to deviate from the traditional, we recommend that you use polka dots in more colorful tones. Or, use the print with a mix of colors. For example, blue with white, beige with yellow, or even polka dots with gold. Basically, the intention is to make the look more colorful than in the past.
Another tip to deviate from the traditional is to opt for prints with larger polka dots. In other words, look for prints with medium or large balls. It is worth highlighting that there are many stylish looks with these prints. And finally, the last tip is to mix polka dots with other prints.
In general, the taboo that you cannot mix prints is a thing of the past. Nowadays, many fashionistas try to put a mix of prints in the same look. However, because it is exotic, not everyone likes this mix.
Above all, if you are interested, the first thing you need to know before mixing prints is knowing how to harmonize them with each other. In other words, try to follow them in the same color palette, or with the same linearity. In general, polka dot goes well with flower prints, stripes, checks and even graphic patterns.
Dust on the accessories
In addition to clothes with polka dots, we can also highlight the universe of accessories that exist with this print. For example, bags, bracelets, earrings, necklaces and even sunglasses. Basically, these accessories are often used to enhance more basic and casual looks. Like the famous jeans, with the button-down shirt.
Or, you can be a little more daring. For example, you can wear that vibrant colored polka dot bag, along with your total white look. This look can go perfectly in summer. After all, it is light, cool and comfortable for these hotter days.
And of course, if you want to be a little more discreet in your clothes, you can opt for polka dots on your sunglasses. There are even incredibly cute versions, with kitten shapes. Therefore, there are no excuses for not using polka dots, right?
+ Photos to inspire you
Anyway, what did you think of our article about poá? Did you like to know about its origins?
Now come check out another article from Women’s Area: Universal styles – What are they and which ones suit you?
Sources: Retro universe, Marie Claire Magazine, Pure people
Featured image: Cordeirópolis
