Pattern Focus: Polka Dots

With their fun-loving persona, polka dots are a go-to pattern for decorating nurseries and kids’ spaces. But they’re not just for kiddos. Check out the benefits of using polka dots to create a bright spot in your home.

The term “polka dot” was coined in the mid-19th century amid the polka dance craze. Although it’s a centuries-old pattern used in many cultures, it really took hold in the U.S. in 1928, when Disney introduced Minnie Mouse in her signature red-and-white polka dot dress and hair bow. The cheerful pattern has adorned America’s apparel since the ’30s.

Jude Stewart, writing for Slate, sums up our perception of polka dots today as “optimistic, prosperous, ostensibly prim, but also dizzyingly energetic, the Atomic Age dissolving into particles before our eyes. … What could be a less complicated, less loaded pattern?”


Traditional spaces. Polka dots are a terrific pattern for formal spaces, but their success hinges on scale and color. Smaller polka dots lend themselves to a traditional look, while larger dots are associated with more casual, contemporary spaces. The conservatively sized dots on this fresh green-and-cream ottoman fabric add a punch of color but are in keeping with the classic elegance of the space.


Midcentury modern. Polka dot mania was in full swing from the 1930s to 1960s, and the pattern is a natural for midcentury modern style’s clear, uncluttered, graphic look. This armchair’s polka dot upholstery blends harmoniously with the home’s natural woodwork and the neutral color palette of the other furnishings. The muted hues of the dots also help temper the pattern so it doesn’t feel childish or cartoonish.


Big and bold. You probably can’t get a bolder pattern than huge, in-your-face polka dots. Dots are illustrative by nature, and those that are high-contrast are going to make a statement. As long as the polka dots compositionally “fit” on the surface, there’s no limit to how large you can go. Because they’re free-floating and don’t rely on adjacent pattern components, such as stripes, they can be placed as desired. The choice is yours. The polka dots in this basement study playfully wrap around the walls.


Subtle spots. Though polka dots are inherently bold, a tone-on-tone version is understated and soothing to the eye. This tonal polka dot wall is subtly ethereal.


A great mixer. Polka dots are like cranberry juice: great on their own, but even better when mixed with other ingredients.

In this dining room, intricate trellis wallpaper pairs with dining chairs upholstered in a fetching polka dot print. The circles don’t compete with the lines of the trellis, so the dissimilar elements work together. In general, polka dots mix well with graphic patterns, such as stripes and plaids, as well as sinuous florals.


Pattern density. Polka dots that are close together, even touching, will appear “busier” than those that have more space between them. However, dense dots do create drama, as evident in this hallway.

It’s best to use close-set dots in simpler spaces that don’t have a lot of architectural changes or intricate functions. Otherwise, the pattern will tire out your eyes and everything may look jumbled.


This looser polka dot pattern has more breathing room and reads as more restful than the denser pattern.


Polka dots aren’t just for walls and upholstery. Think outside the box for polka-dot-perfect surfaces, such as this charming painted tabletop.


This kitchen cabinet was lined with Marimekko’s Pienet Kivet wallpaper in grey. Even a polka dot pattern that’s small on square footage can go a long way.


Do you like polka dots but aren’t ready to go all-out? Try the pattern on sheets, throw pillows, area rugs or a shower curtain.

Several companies make polka dot wall decals, so your commitment level can remain minimal. Decals are also great for renters who can’t make alterations. Check out these jungle-themed polka dot decals for kids from the Houzz Shop. Other sources to explore include The Lovely Wall Company, Create-a-Mural and Urban Walls.

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