Polka dot fabrics feature probably the most cheerful, flirty and feminine print. Some say it was called after the famous dance in the 19th century. Others stick to the idea that flamenco costumes and gypsies brought the spots into vogue. The third story has it that the print originated in Switzerland in the middle of the 18th century as thin translucent batiste fabric with small dots.
Polka dot reminds us of Minnie Mouse, “I love Lucy”, 1940s and – yes – Julia Roberts in her elegant Pretty Woman Dress. Christian Dior is the first on the list of designers who simply adore it. His gorgeous polka dot dresses are never fading retro classics. In the 60s, his enthusiasm caught up with Yves Saint Laurent. In his collections, one could often see black and white print combinations with dots in completely different sizes.