When it comes to fashion and timing, a true icon knows how to hit the mark right on the dot. So it was no shock that Minnie Mouse, the ultimate pioneer of the polka print, celebrated National Polka Dot Day by unveiling a bespoke dress by designer Christian Siriano. However, it was a surprise that the chic mouse traded in her signature white dots on red for oversized white bows embellished with Swarovski crystals and magenta fabric at the Minnie Mouse Rocks the Dots Art and Fashion Exhibit
“I wanted to do something that was a little bit different since that’s what she wears every day,” said CFDA member Siriano. “It still keeps that polka dot feel, but elevating it. We wanted to make a really cool party dress that was a little bit downtown cool because I knew this space was going to be a little bit more raw and different.”
That space was the Paper Agency in downtown Los Angeles. As an art gallery, the location gets a fair share of makeovers, but probably none as whimsical as the white wooden fence that welcomed guests for the evening’s red carpet event hosted by Sarah Hyland in honor of Minnie Mouse’s contributions to fashion. “I think Minnie has always been that one style girl that everyone is inspired by,” Siriano said. “She takes risks, wears bold colors, she’s playful, and travels around the world.”
Noteworthy followers of MM include Georgia May Jagger, Madonna, Twiggy, and Naomi Campbell, who all have their portraits on display at the fashion and art installation, as well as sketches, and gowns that Minnie has worn on every continent except Antarctica. When you’re looking to join the masses with at least one dotted garment as a nod to Minnie, look no further than British it-girl Alexa Chung for instruction. According to Siriano, “Girls like Alexa make polka dots look cool and fresh even though it’s young and playful. It takes a certain person to make polka dots look, not campy.”
And if the sartorial step isn’t enough for you, there are other ways to show your devotion to Disney such as a sneak peak of collaborations with Sephora, Ugg, Kate Spade, and Lauren Conrad. Besides, there are also plenty of selfie opportunities at the pop-up and the chance to shop exclusive items like key chains, ear buds, necklaces, shirts, and mugs—polka dots included, of course.