Next shoppers have been racing to snap up an ‘airy and comfortable’ £44 polka dot midi dress that can be worn everywhere from picnics to race days before it sells out
Every so often there’s a dress that we just know is going to be a viral sensation, and our prediction for this summer’s style staple is Next’s Polka Dot Square Neck Cami Midi Dress . Checking off every box that you can think of for a summer dress, it’s versatile, stylish, timeless and comfortable all at once, and we can already think of a hundred different ways to wear it this season.
Clearly we’re not alone in our love of the simple-but-special midi dress, with sizes already starting to sell out. But Next says there’s restocks coming within days, so most sizes are still available to order without having to wait too long.
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Apart from being affordably priced at £44, the polka dot dress is one of those rare buys that you can pull out for any occasion, whether it’s a picnic in the park or a day at the races. Pair it with some trainers, socks and a bomber jacket for an easy every day look, or with a pair of sandals or flip flops to keep you cool-yet-chic whilst on holiday.
For formal events, like race days, graduation ceremonies or christenings, a fascinator and some heels will instantly elevate it into something smarter. Want to wear it to the office? Keep it simple with some ballet flats and an oversized tote bag, proving this is a dress that does it all.
The square neckline is universally flattering, and it has a relaxed trapeze-style fit that’s comfortable and breezy without being shapeless or slouchy. Simple spaghetti straps mean you won’t end up with any awkward tan lines, and the Polka Dot Cami Midi Dress features stretchy shirring on the back of the bodice to accommodate most bust sizes.
If polka dots aren’t your thing, the dress also comes in ecru with a large red and orange tropical palm tree print on the front, which whilst less versatile for every day, make it a stand out holiday dress. For a slightly more fitted silhouette, Nobody’s Child has slashed the price of its viral Polka Dot Bandeau Alice Midi Dress down to £88 from £110, which comes in eight colours and has a fitted bodice with an A-line midi-length skirt.
If you prefer shorter hemlines, Marks & Spencer’s Pure Cotton Polka Dot Mini Cami Dress is a great alternative at just £26. Made from breathable cotton, it has frilled shoulder straps with shirring details around the bust and straps for extra comfort, and a loose, floaty shape that’s perfect for the heat.
But Next shoppers who’ve already got their hands on the Polka Dot Cami Midi Dress have been thrilled with their buy, saying: “I absolutely love this dress, it is airy and comfortable to wear and it has pockets.”
Another agreed: “Wonderful dress and I had a lot of compliments,” with a third agreeing: “Love it, feels lovely on and it has pockets!! Really comfy.”
Some were less taken with the shape, writing: “The dress was lovely but it just didn’t hang right over the hips .. the extra gathered material from the back seemed to hang under the arm so fell wrong in my hips .. it will be a perfect dress for others just not me.”
But others found a work around for it, saying: “Gorgeous dress, reading the reviews I dropped down a size and it fitted perfectly without the “balloon” of fabric that reviewer’s were saying. I’m 5’3 so brought the short and it’s just right. Going to be a much worn dress in the hot days and holiday to come.”
