And yes, I'm over 30 but that is as much information as I'm going to give regarding numbers!
Polka dots are one of the oldest motifs in design. They've adapted through the ages in size, color, and scale. Whether you're decorating your living room or a child's bedroom, there is sure to be a place where a pop of polka dots is the perfect touch.
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| Photo: DecorPad (Designer: Sally Markham via House Beautiful) |
I distinctly remember sneaking off upstairs and pulling a chair up to the phone to make my calls. One by one, I called my all my friends and told them to come on over to my party..... that same day!
I'm ashamed to admit that I also dinstinctly recall asking them not to forget to bring a present. Cut me some slack though, I am child #12... both parties and presents were few and far between
in a family of that size.
My sister overheard me and ran to tell my mother. It's so funny every time I think back on it. Mom was not at all thrilled with me but I was tickled pink, with a smile from ear to ear as she raked my hair into ponytails and got me gussied up in my navy and white polka dot dress! She wasn't smiling, but I was, while "I'm having a party, I'm having a party.." was the constant, ringing melody going through my mind.
So even now, many years later, I'm still attracted to polka dots .....
Whether it's shoes....
P.S. you may want to block some time to review Amy's site.
By far, one of the most creative, amazing photographers I've ever seen!!
clothing....
Photo: Alta Alta
(Designer: Joseph Ribkoff... many, many years ago I worked as a sales rep, selling his line)
handbags...
Photo: Dreams Handbags
towels........
Photo: Country Living (Garnett Hill)
dishes....
 Photo: My Home Ideas (via Coastal Living) or pretties for our pets, ... | ||||||||||||
 Photo: Country Living polka dots, in moderation, always catch my eye and make me smile! How boring would this bedroom be if we eliminated the polka dots? That green and white makes the space so much more fun and lively, don't you think?
Keep them two-tone for a tailored, retro look or go multi-colored for a bit of whimsical fun.
Go bright and lively when incorporating for kids. For children's space, bright and bold is most always met with approval.  Photo & Design: Lewa's Designs Its the reason why this fabric was such a hit for me in my shop.  Photo: Storibook Designs Polka dots are not just for kids... though I preface this with my own disclaimer: because they are such a bold statement, I most often prefer polka dots kept to one or two elements in the room. Overdoing it can spoil the fun! To my mind and eye - as much as I love the pattern - it is best reserved for accents. A side chair or ottoman is the perfect place for a spunky polka dot print.
If you have more than one place that you would like to use polka dots, repeat them strategically, such as tastefully incorporated in this bedroom. The polka dot is repeated on pillow sham and lampshade; just enough whimsy and impact without overload.
And if you think polka dots in your interior can not be sophisticated, think again! Take a look at the use of the dynamic dots in this next group of images I pulled for you. OK, I admit, this first one does cross over to the "overdone" category, but even still it illustrates a look that is more sophisticated. It's such a cool photo, I had to find a way to include it!  Photo: Good Life of Design This next room from Coco+Kelly is the epitome of sophistication. It takes true skill to pull off black, white and polka dots with such outstanding results.  The addition of polka dots to otherwise plain space creates dramatic appeal, as both of the next images illustrate.   Photo: Decor Pad (Designer: Kohler ?) And then there is drama.. sophisticated, bold, drama!  Photo: Moxie Maley (via Canadian House & Home) What are your thoughts? Can you fit a few polka dots in your decor for a bit of fun and youthful whimsy? I have a great personal memory tied to my affection toward polka dots. What about you? Any playful polka dot inspiration in your life? While you think on that, time for me to enjoy the birthday cake Ed made me! With or without the polka dot icing, I'm sure it will be delicious!  |
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Sarah, you were refreshingly charming when you were a child and you are still today. What a delightful read! Thank you for this.
ReplyDeleteKind regards,
Juliane
Ah, the budding entrepreneur, what a great story. Embrace your age, Sarah, it only gets better!
ReplyDeleteGreat story! Fabulous, inspiring images. I now want polka dots. Btw, I went with a polka dot theme for my son's birthday. Loved it!
ReplyDeleteThank you very much ladies!
ReplyDeleteJuliane, "delightful" expresses true enjoyment so even though this is just a little blog post, as a writer, I couldn't hope for a more positive response! I appreciate your sharing that with me.
Nancy, I hear you on "embracing my age" but wouldn't it be neat if after 30, our birthdays shifted to every 24 months vs. 12? ha, ha.
Michelle, I bet your son loved his polka dot party! Did you include a game of Twister for the kids?
Love your polka dot birthday tribute.
ReplyDeleteStill laughing about calling your friends and inviting them for a birthday party - hilarious! You had verve then and you haven't lost a bit of that sparkle.
Good for you, Sarah.
Hope it was a wonderful day!
Glad it brought some laughs Catherine! Thanks for stopping by.
ReplyDeleteLOVE the polka dotted art! Also the tables, dishes. Scratch that; I like them all. I, too, remember loving polka dots as a child. I don't think we ever lose those early favorites, do you?
ReplyDeleteLOL..read your cmment about the pie. Have you had chess pie before? I am dreaming about it too because its all gone.
ReplyDeleteWhat a fun story about throwing yourself a party! I love it! Also a fan of polka dots~they are optimistic! Thanks for the comment about the purple toile you thought was Waverly..I have seen a Laura Ashley one....
ReplyDeleteSeedplanter, hope you saw my comment left over on your blog! I think anything that is sentimental to us stays with us stronger and longer than anything else.
ReplyDeleteTam ~ I have not had that pie before but your photos were enough for me....delicious looking. Obviously you enjoyed it!!
oh, i love polka dots! i have to rush off to work now but look forward to coming back and reading more of your blog...happy we found each other! xoxo
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