Polkadotmania has truly taken over. The world, or at least the fashion world, has gone absolutely crazy for the spotted print this summer, and there's almost nothing it hasn't adorned – viral skirts, classic dresses, shoes, the lot. But, there was one brand in particular that was miles ahead on the polka dot trend. Nobody's Child launched its now-cult Polka Dot Bandeau Felicity Midi Dress in 2024, well before polka dots were deemed as the print du jour. The brand has since released entire dotty capsule collections that prove that polka dots are truly in its brand DNA.
If you're not someone who tends to gravitate towards dresses (I personally would rather a pair of wide-leg trousers over a floaty midi dress any day of the week), then Nobody's Child also has a polka dot co-ord that has that same sense of vintage coquettishness and glamour as its Felicity Dress. The co-ord in question is the Black Polka Dot Bandeau Top and the Black Polka Dot Wide Leg Trousers, and it's quite frankly, perfect for this time of year. Transitional dressing can sometimes be difficult to get right; it's too warm for anything cashmere or woolly, yet it's too cold for bare legs, but a co-ord like this slots in seamlessly. The bandeau top features a classic silhouette and slight ruching in the middle, while the trousers are breezy and have that wide-leg cut that's perfect for pairing with sandals, loafers or trainers.
Shop: The Nobody's Child Polka Dot Co Ord Set
On sale
Nobody's Childwww.nobodyschild.com
In a classic monochrome polka dot design, the Nobody's Child bandeau top features a straight neckline and subtle ruching around the middle. Style with either the matching trousers or an A-line midi skirt for the ultimate end-of-summer look.
On sale
Nobody's Childwww.nobodyschild.com
The Nobody's Child wide-leg trousers feature the exact same black and white polka dot print as the bandeau top, as well as a wide-leg and relaxed cut.
Of course, the great thing about investing in a co-ord is the fact that you basically have three different outfits for the price of one. Worn as a set, the Nobody's Child polka dot co-ord needs minimal styling, simply add a pair of gold hoops and a chunky necklace and you're good to go. On the other hand, the bandeau top can be layered under an oversized linen shirt and worn with an A-line maxi skirt and sandals for an easy everyday look. The trousers are equally as versatile, and can be paired with anything from a tucked-in knit and ankle boots, to a silky camisole and kitten heels. Investing in a statement co-ord is the easiest form of dressing, per se, and each piece carries the kind of je ne sais quoi that outlives a single season.
The clincher, you might ask? The Nobody's Child polka dot co-ord has just been reduced in its summer sale, so if you empathise with me and have never been much of a dress person either, it's a smart, more flexible way to buy into the polka dot trend – and one that certainly promises more cost-per-wear than a single dress does. Proof, if you needed it, that the best way to join polkadotmania isn't to wear a dress at all, it's to invest in a co-ord instead.
Shop: Alternative Polka Dot Co-Ords
Damson Madderdamsonmadder.com
If you're on the hunt for a long-sleeve polka dot co-ord, Damson Madder has the perfect duo. Its Leilani Blouse has a red and white polka dot print, and features a square neckline, A-line silhouette and 3/4 length sleeves, as well as copious amounts of ruffles.
Damson Madderdamsonmadder.com
To go with the red dotted blouse is the Layla Skirt, which falls to a midi length and features a dropped waist and shirred elasticated waistband. Finish the look with a pair of Mary Janes or chunky loafers.
On sale
French Connectionwww.frenchconnection.com
French Connection's take on a bandeau polka dot top features a black and white spotted design, as well as inner supportive grip tape (a lifesaver) and a peplum silhouette. It would also look just as good with wide-leg trousers as it does with the matching midi skirt.
On sale
French Connectionwww.frenchconnection.com
To go with the bandeau top, French Connection also offer a matching maxi skirt. A good one for wearing to evening dinner plans or to the office, the skirt has a comfortable elasticated waist and back slit.
Main image credit: Instagram/@anais.closet
Gemma Lavers is a fashion commerce writer at Grazia, where she tracks down viral pieces and is as comfortable navigating the M&S new-in page as she is dissecting the latest celebrity look. When not writing, shopping or at Reformer Pilates (a cliché but she's hooked), Gemma will likely be planning her next holiday (and what she's going to wear). For a glimpse into said travels, outfit inspo and life as a journalist, follow her on Instagram or TikTok.