Polka dots are popping up everywhere on the high street this summer, from gorgeous dresses to stylish skirts. Now, the trend has made its way into the world of accessories, with polka dot bags becoming the latest must-have.
Crafters, realising they can embrace the trend without heading to the shops, have been sharing their handmade polka dot bag creations all over social media, creating a wonderful bank of inspiration for your next sewing project.
Making your own polka dot bag is a fantastic way to try this season’s biggest trend while creating something that’s completely unique and reflective of your personal style.
All you need is some polka dot fabric, a sewing machine and a trusty pair of fabric scissors. If you don’t have a sewing machine, there’s no reason you can’t hand sew your project instead. It could even make for a wonderfully relaxing activity to enjoy in the shade during this heatwave.
From timeless black and white polka dots to trendy chocolate brown and baby pink, or even bold red and white, there are so many fun colour combinations to experiment with.
We’ve rounded up some of our favourite polka dot bags from crafters on Instagram and TikTok to inspire your next sewing project this summer.
Happy sewing!
Cool crossbody
A crossbody bag is the perfect summer accessory, allowing you to carry all your essentials — from suncream to sunglasses — while keeping your hands free in the heat.
This black and white polka dot crossbody bag by @bykaterobyn on Instagram looks incredibly professional. The quilted detailing, gold hardware and drawstring closure make it look like something you’d happily pay a premium for.
Love this bag? Over on Made Club, our membership community for crafters, Kate leads an exclusive video tutorial showing you how to sew your own stylish ruffle tote bag. Discover Made Club here.
Dainty and delightful
Not all polka dot fabrics need to be bold and eye-catching. You can opt for a more delicate print, like this beautiful chocolate brown and cream bag by @mariamartre on Instagram.
The dainty polka dots, paired with the curved silhouette, give the bag a gorgeous vintage feel.
Terrific transformation
Don’t want to buy new fabric? Why not thrift something second-hand or rummage through your wardrobe for an old polka dot garment and transform it into a stylish new bag, just like @faye_studios has done on Instagram?
This transformation from dress to bag is seriously impressive. The addition of the bows on either side of the handle is particularly adorable.
Romantic ruffles
Ruffles are another huge trend when it comes to bags, made especially popular by independent accessories brand Baggy London.
We love this ruffled polka dot bag by @daphieandco on Instagram. The butter yellow and burgundy colour combination also makes it feel wonderfully unique.
Beautiful button bag
Button bags, aptly named for their oversized button fastening, are another sewing trend taking social media by storm, and they’re the perfect style for showcasing polka dot fabric.
This chocolate brown and pink button bag is simply gorgeous and would make the perfect playful accessory to pair with a summer dress.
Stylish and slouchy
A slouchy, or hobo, bag is ideal for summer, complementing the relaxed feel of warm-weather outfits while giving you plenty of room for all your essentials.
We love this hand-sewn polka dot slouchy bag by @emmasnaaiatelier on Instagram. The interior pocket is a fantastic and practical addition, making it just as functional as it is stylish.
