Kate Middleton puts polka dots back on the fashion map for spring

If you wondered why everyone has started going crazy for polka dots or why they are flying off the shelves at your favourite high street store then you could probably put it down to the "the Kate effect".

If anyone could put a print, a sleeve, a neckline or an accessory at the forefront of fashion, it's The Duchess of Cambridge.

In fact, according to findings by shopping experts Coupon Ninja, online interest for 'polka dot dress’ almost quadrupled in the first few hours after the Duchess’ appearance at Prince Philip's memorial on March 29.

Her power to make the items she wears sell out within hours is somewhat a talent of hers – and her latest look was certainly no different.

Thanks to Kate, the humble polka dot is having a moment in the spotlight again and we're loving its fresh appeal.

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Kate chose an elegant black and white polka dot dress by one of her go-to designers, Alessandra Rich, for the occasion and set tongues wagging instantly. The design, which would set you back a royally expensive £1,495, had us all swooning over its dreamy detailing and playful print.

Simply everything about it, from the puffed mutton sleeve, retro buttons, vintage style waist belt, drop-waist pleated hem and delicate polka dot print (of course) was impeccable.

This was a dress that says "I have arrived" without being too showy. Understated, yet elegant, it was the perfect choice for such a meaningful occasion in the royal diary.

Of course, it's no surprise that the dress is now sold out on Net-A-Porter as style fans rushed to buy it despite the hefty price tag.

Kate, 40, is no stranger to wearing polka dot prints and we've seen her in many variations over the years including this collared midi dress, also by London-based Alessandra Rich.

Remember the iconic blue Jenny Packham dress she wore when leaving the hospital after Prince George was born too? It seems this trusty print has never let her down and and she's shown recently their timeless quality is something to be admired.

Seeing as she has just upped the demand for the polka dot dress and they're oozing fresh appeal for spring, we've rounded up a few favourites you can shop on the high street now.

But be quick after the frenzy she's caused they might not be around for very long…

Shop the look

Black spot collar dress, New Look,£29.99 here

Cute collars have fast become a signature for the The Duchess of Cambridge and lucky for us they are all over the high street so you needn't spend a fortune.

This design from New Look is under £30 and a classic throw on style you can wear daily. Plus want to hide a tum- the smock style will skim not cling to your curves.

Phase Eight Spot Print V-Neck Midaxi Tiered Dress, Marks & Spencer, £150 here

Looking for something fancy? Maybe you have an upcoming wedding or dinner date? The lovely thing about this delicate print is that it works casually or formally – as Kate proves so gracefully.

A v-neck is flattering if you have a big bust- this design will work if you are top heavy, or if like The Duchess you are svelte and want to add some curves to your lower half.

Brown polka dot ruched midi dress, River Island, £46 here

Despite classic monochrome always looking chic, why not try a new shade this spring — brown. It's flattering on all skin tones and works wonders with neutral accessories.

We can see Kate in this elegant vintage shape. Be quick, it's selling out like hot cakes.

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Midi skater dress in polka dot, ASOS DESIGN, £55 here

We love it when we find a style that looks like it could have fallen out of The Duchess's wardrobe but doesn't come with a hefty designer price tag.

Say hello to this ASOS number, between the floaty chiffon fabric, lace detailing around the neckline and mono polka print, it's fun, flirty and flattering.

Sylvie Green Polka Dot Shirt Dress, KITRI Studio, £72 here

The Duchess of Cambridge is also a huge fan of wearing green so we think she would approve of this gorgeous polka dot number.

It's smart enough for the office, and can be dressed up in the evening with a pair of knee high boots – that's a lot of bang for your buck. This sale buy won't be around for long.

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