Rachel Stevens looked effortlessly elegant at the relaunch of M&S Sparks Rewards, wearing a black and white spotted chiffon top with black wide-leg trousers and metal-tipped heels. Rachel's top is from M&S, the fashion brand is having a stellar season, and if you've had your eye on this dotty gem, it's just been slashed to half price in the M&S sale, so it's only £18.
One of the biggest spring/summer fashion trends for 2026, you might have noticed that polka dots are absolutely everywhere and on everything, making Rachel's look exceptionally timely. However, it's not just a one-season wonder. Polka dots, particularly in a black and white colourway, are something we see year in year out, making this pretty top a wise investment for future summer seasons too.
Rachel Stevens is a great source of inspiration for stylish looks, and while we can all take something away from the former pop star's well-curated aesthetic, she is particularly great at styling for petites. Pairing her spotty buy with a pair of wide-leg trousers - after all, culottes are certainly back in fashion - the star looked the epitome of smart-casual. Thanks to the white spots, this top would also work really well in a white jeans outfit, for those looking for high summer versatility. Rachel carried off wide-leg trousers with ease as she nipped in her waist with a tucked-in top, and elongated her legs with a long pointed heel.
GO DOTTY FOR POLKA PRINTS
Shop polka dot tops
Rachel's stylish M&S top proves you don't have to spend a lot to look great in this trend. Rachel teamed her top with wide-leg trousers, but in order to balance her proportions, she made sure to tuck the top in. Alternatively, pair this top with slim-leg jeans.
With a high neck, pussy bow detail and floaty caped sleeves, we love this blouse from Reiss for its sophisticated take on a vintage print. The tie neckline adds a romantic feel and is ideal for adding fullness to your bust area. The shorter sleeve is ideal in warm weather.
A slightly more formal and fitted silhouette, this polka dot blouse has a floaty sleeve, fitted cuffs and a bust-flattering V-neckline for a smart casual piece that can be dressed up or down. Team with jeans, tailored trousers or skirts for a contemporary look.
Complete the look
DeMellier's chic designs are making them the go-to for the best affordable designer bags. We love the New York's elongated silhouette.
Rachel's trousers are a past-season pair from Zara, but this wide-leg, M&S culotte is the perfect base for smart casual outfit ideas.
Metal toe caps are a great way to update classic black court shoes. This detail has been seen on designers ranging from Saint Laurent to Maje and Isabel Marant.
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One of the easiest and most timeless ways to add polka dots to your wardrobe is in a monochrome outfit. Try adding a white-based spotty top to your favourite white jeans outfit, or try styling a slip skirt with a silky spotty camisole for a refreshing spring look.
We love how Rachel Stevens' M&S top has an additional quirky touch in the form of asymmetric sleeves, which create a billowing silhouette. If you're worried about getting swamped in this floaty fabric, swap wide-leg trousers like Rachel's for a pair of Levi's rib cage jeans. The fitted silhouette will balance the looser fit across your top half. For a quick date night outfit idea, finish this look with your favourite pair of black heels
A stylish top to wear with jeans, polka dot tops and blouses are a great choice for pairing with white and black denim in particular, but will add a contemporary feel to your favourite blue or grey pairs this summer too.
Of course, polka dots don't just have to be in monochrome like Rachel Stevens' outfit - pinks, reds, and blues are all popular, as well as brown and cream colour combinations reminiscent of Julia Roberts iconic dress from Pretty Woman. However you choose to wear polka dots, you're guaranteed a spot on the style list this season with this cool print.
