DINAH VAN TULLEKEN: Pretty similar! Why Julia’s classic polka dot dress is spot on for the summer
It’s the season when we all reach for a floral dress without the slightest hesitation. They are almost uniform this time of year, especially in this heat. But let me keep your hand.
Yes, women of a certain age are rejoicing because the Pretty Woman dress is back!
The brown and cream polka dot number that Vivian (played by Julia Roberts) wears to a polo match in an iconic scene in the 1990 film is flying off the hangers on Britain’s high streets.
Roberts’ wardrobe in the film has long been praised. Costume designer Marilyn Vance created all the looks from scratch, commissioning custom pieces and sourcing vintage clothing from sellers in both the US and UK.
While polka dots quietly reappear every few seasons, they somehow feel fresh again each time.
From Kate Moss to the Princess of Wales, from Marilyn Monroe to World War II. From Elizabeth to Elizabeth, there’s a long list of stylish women championing the print.
But this year, Roberts’ version prevails. Sitting perfectly between monochrome and overly colorful, these are the chocolate shades you want to wear now.
At the top of many wish lists is Max Mara’s Martina midi dress. Cut from 100 per cent silk, the dress is pricey at £705 on the brand’s website, but it’s as close to Julia’s dress as you’ll find.
The brown and cream polka dot number worn by Vivian, played by Julia Roberts (pictured, left) at a polo match in an iconic scene in the 1990 film, is flying off the hangers on Britain’s high streets.
At the top of many wish lists is Max Mara’s Martina midi dress (pictured)
Frustratingly for some, it has sold out time and time again. Customers reported ordering the dress online, only to receive an email days later telling them the order had been canceled due to ‘quality control’ issues (aka ‘nothing left’).
A woman who managed to track down the dress at a leading London department store said: ‘I was told this was the last dress left in London. It was a size too big but I got it.
‘The salesperson said to me, “This is the dress of the season, we can’t get enough of it.”‘
So what should you do if you missed Martina? Boden has a slim, loose-fitting version with a bateau neckline and cinched waist, priced at £89, or the belted Lucinda Spot Midi Dress in Phase Eight, currently on sale for £119.25.
Mint Velvet also offers a cap-sleeve option with ruffle detailing, a deep V-neck and a waterfall skirt, priced at £170.
Roberts, as Vivian, wore hers with gloves, white kitten heels, and a matching band-adorned straw sun hat.
If you want a lightweight heel, I recommend a 21st-century twist with simple ballet heels or a sleek slingback heel. And no coaches allowed!
