Itsy Bitsy Teeny Weeny

When the classic polka-dot bikini hit the fashion scene, so did that 1960's summer hit 'Itsy Bitsy Teeny Weeny Yellow Polka Dot Bikini'. You can't help but picture the sassy girl walking towards the pool in her fitted, polka-dot bikini, knowing all too well that every cute guy's eyes were on her. Happily, this summer you can be that girl: a polka-dot bikini is a timeless fashion trend, which has come back in a big way this season. And, unlike the song, yellow is not your only option.

Moschino and Betsey Johnson all showcased their own versions of polka dots at their spring fashion shows and now we have fashionistas Katy Perry and Victoria Beckham to thank for strutting those dots and bringing them back into fashion.

The print should always be the main attraction, so don't make it compete with other prints or sparkly accessories. If you're strutting your dots on the beach, make sure your other pieces are solid colours, and keep them as basic as possible so your polka-dot ensemble stands out. Example: a red and white polka-dot bikini completed with a plain black floppy sunhat and black flip-flops is a classic and stunning look.

MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICE

For the petite woman, tiny polka dots are your best bet, as larger dots will be too overbearing for your body shape. Medium-sized polka dots or a mixture of small and big dots will work well with an average-sized body, while more dramatic dots compliment a larger body shape, particularly when the swimsuit has a fitted waist. If your polka dots seem to be stretching and appear to be oval in shape, ditch the bikini and go for a fuller swimsuit with dots that are perfectly shaped on your body. If your dots are large but not stretched on your garment, it creates the illusion that your body is slimmer than it actually is.

The beach can be a very intimidating place, so if you're not ready to jump into a polka-dot bikini just yet, ease into this look slowly. A little polka-dot hat or polka-dot shorts are trendy too, while summer sandals covered in dots or even a polka-dot beach bag will add a bit of 'pop' to your style.

Author: Chanelle Carelse