Review of Zara’s Polka Dot Dress
I went into this whole idea with a healthy dose of skepticism. My nature is analytical, so I am rarely swayed by the masses. I like to make up my own mind. So I figured I was the perfect person to take on the now infamous Zara Polka Dot dress. Why are so many women buying this dress? What exactly is so great about it? How could a dress rack up an Instagram following of over 24K?
What is Zara?
Zara is a Spanish apparel retail chain which specializes in fast fashion. It is a favorite among fashionistas and influencers for its on trend designs and budget friendly prices. My personal experience is mixed. The fashion is definitely on point but as with all fast fashion retailers their execution is spotty (see what I did there?). Specifically, the sizes are all over the map. In one item I may need a Large and in another the Small is too big. Even within one style, you can find huge size variations. So often, even when I love a style, I lose patience trying to find the right fit.
When we talk fast fashion, you don’t expect exceptional quality. The thing with Zara is that some of their items are great quality. I’ve had a couple shirts in my closet for several years and they wash and wear great. Zara is where I turn when I want a super trendy item without investing a lot. I also love their dress up and holiday options. They always look considerably more expensive then they are and I always get a ton of compliments on them. Right now I am eyeing this sequin dress. I mean TDF good! Right?
Polka Dot Thoughts
The thing about the Polka Dot dress is, I expected to dislike it but to my surprise I actually like it. When you take the dress out of the box it seems like nothing special. The material is thin but it is a “summer” dress so you wouldn’t want it much thicker. Still after unboxing I was not impressed. The magic actually happens when you put the darn dress on. For whatever reason, the dress is just flattering. The drape of the fabric is just right and the drop waist hits a the perfect spot. The cuffed sleeves have a nice shape and the ruffle hem is a nice added detail.
It isn’t just flattering on me at 5’9″ wearing size large but on everyone you see it on. Just scroll through the popular Instagram devoted to the dress @hot4thespot and you will see all ages and sizes rockin’ the dress. So did the dress turn me in to a dedicated polka dot dress lover? Not really. Polka Dots aren’t my thing. The dress is cute and flattering and I can easily see it worn many ways for fall but in the end this dress just doesn’t fit my style. If however, you live for dots or love a good modest dress, this dress is perfect for you. At only $69.90 you can’t go wrong.
Swiss Dots Instead
For that price, I considered keeping it and seeing if an occasion for polka dots arose but ultimately, I decided to return it. Primarily because I picked up the Swiss Dot Dress at the same time and it is definitely more my style. The dress is black for one and two, despite the name, it has more of a chevron pattern than dots. It is lined and the fabric is thicker and will work better for going into fall.
Piqued My Zara Interest
The whole intrigue around the Polka Dot dress renewed my interest in Zara. After a couple previous failed attempts to find something, I often skip over the store in my mall. In all honesty, my store didn’t have the dress, so I ordered online. Despite an arduous return process for in store purchases, the online return process has been painless including exchanging a pair of leather like joggers from a Medium from the Large. Leather Like Joggers Y’all! I hope my search for leather joggers is over. Fingers crossed the Medium fits better.
I would love it if you followed me on Instagram for my everyday outfits or on Pinterest for my fashion inspiration. StyleDahlia is for fashion-minded women in their prime. We delight in the beauty of everyday and hope you will join us on our journey. Happy Shopping Dahlias.
