Where did polka dots come from, and why have they stood the test of time?
A Spot of History
For men, polka dots found their niche in more subtle areas. A smart suit was ubiquitous, so polka dots were most often seen in accessories like cravats, ties, scarves and pocket squares. These little touches of pattern and colour added just the right amount of flair to otherwise classic ensembles, offering a way to express individuality without straying too far from what was expected.
A pattern that’s both playful and polished, the polka dot has earned its place in the racks of a countless number of wardrobes. Its journey from the dance halls of 19th Century Europe to today’s boutiques demonstrates its timeless versatility.
The term “polka dot” originated in the 1840s, during the height of the polka dance craze. While there’s no true and direct connection between the two, the name stuck nevertheless, and the motif gradually gained favour in fashion.
First embraced in womenswear, polka dots quickly came to symbolise a particular blend of sophistication, charm and playfulness. Style icons like Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn wearing the pattern were no small help, cementing a classic image that continues to this day.
The Polka Dot's Place in a Gentleman's Wardrobe
As is often the case, menswear followed next, though in a more understated and refined form. As fabric printing techniques improved, polka dots became a widespread, practical and stylish choice for men’s accessories - especially neckwear.
Frank Sinatra wearing a polka dot kipper tie.
By the 1940s and 50s, polka dot ties, cravats and pocket squares had become a calling card of the well-dressed gentleman. The pattern offered just enough flair to suggest individuality, without compromising elegance and suitability for the occasion. Figures like Frank Sinatra and Fred Astaire popularised the look in Hollywood and on stage, often pairing polka dot neckerchiefs or ties with sharp tailoring to project a sense of effortless sophistication. This was an urbane type of machismo, redolent of cocktail lounges and jazz bars, and a world away from the grizzled John Wayne-type.
In the decades that followed, actors and style icons have embraced polka dots, each bringing their own unique flair to this timeless pattern. Actors like Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Martin Freeman have incorporated polka dot scarves and ties into their wardrobes, demonstrating how the print can add a touch of refined personality and modern sophistication to their look.
Meanwhile, Paul Weller of The Jam, a true Mod style icon, has long championed polka dots in his accessories, blending classic British tailoring with a rebellious edge. Together, these figures show how polka dots can be worn with confidence - striking the perfect balance between individuality and timeless elegance. They also demonstrate the sheer versatility, which very few other patterns can match.
Today, the polka dot remains a staple in any good wardrobe, especially for your accessories. The design’s ability to walk the line between timeless and expressive makes it a favourite for men who appreciate style and personality.
How to Wear Polka Dots: A Modern Guide for Men
Polka dots are far more versatile and easier to wear than you might think. Here’s how to wear them with confidence:
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Start with accessories – A polka dot tie, cravat, scarf or pocket square adds character to a solid-coloured shirt or blazer without overwhelming the look.
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Size matters – Smaller dots tend to be more formal and refined, ideal for business or evening wear. Larger dots bring a bolder, more vintage-inspired touch.
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Stick to a cohesive palette – Match the dot colour with another element in your outfit for balance. Navy with white dots is a timeless combination, as is burgundy with ivory or gold.
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Mix with care – If you're mixing patterns, make sure the scale and contrast work together. A subtle pinstripe suit can harmonise beautifully with mid-sized dotted accessories.
Spotlight on Luxury: Our Screen-Printed Polka Dot Collection
At Cravat Club, we have a long-standing love of the polka dot, embracing this classic pattern with our own hand screen-printed silk range. Each piece is meticulously crafted in England, using only the finest silk, to ensure a sumptuous drape and an unmistakable lustre.
Whether you’re dressing for an evening event, a wedding, or simply enjoy standing out for all the right reasons, our polka dot collection has something to suit every gentleman’s taste.
A few favourites from the collection:
With its subtle polka dot pattern and light base tone, the Morgan tie offers versatility and sophistication, ideal for the modern gentleman.
A luxurious accessory that adds sophistication to any evening ensemble. The dark colour brings subtlety to the unmatched swagger of a silk scarf.
A versatile pale blue and brown piece that adds a pop of pattern to your jacket pocket.
The epitome of a classic choice, this cravat features a timeless blue and white pattern, perfect for adding wit and elegance.
A subtle yet stylish accessory in a stunning slate and rose colourway, complementing a variety of outfits.
A bold print with orange on wine red that makes a statement while maintaining elegance. Nothing else has quite the eye-catching drama.
This tie boasts a refined design with pastel colours, making it suitable for both formal occasions and stylish everyday wear. Will lift even an ordinary suit.
With roots in elegance and with an host of iconic fans, polka dots are an enduring and timeless motif. Their ability to infuse personality into attire while maintaining formality makes them an indispensable pattern for the modern gentleman.Whether you’re new to this print or a long-time devotee, our handcrafted silk collection ensures you wear it with nothing less than distinction.
Embrace the charm of polka dots and let your accessories be the glue to your style.
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