In theory, wedding planning should be totally fun. Cake, stylish invitations, centerpieces… all things we love. But even if you’re the chillest of chill brides, all the grunt work can quickly become daunting. That’s why we’re all for a themed wedding! But not like the cheesy tropical kind. Think more of a crisp striped ceremony or a day dipped in gold. Adding a theme can make planning elements so much simpler. No longer will you blindly browse wedding invites — you need a geometric wedding invite, and you need it now. If you’re on the hunt for a sweet and simple theme, a polka dot wedding is the solution for you, my dear!

1. Dotted Darling: From afar this Valentino pattern looks like textured polka dots, but give it a closer look and you’ll see that it’s actually teeny tiny flowers. (via Boho Weddings)

2. Dapper Dots: Add a fun kick to the groomsmen’s get-up with a festive neckpiece that complements the theme in a sophisticated way. (via Ruffled)

3. Polka Dot Wedding Invitation ($73+): We love the human touch these imperfect dots give this invite. Not to mention the customizable envelopes and striped interior.

4. Polka Dot Mary Janes ($100): If you’re not up for a polka dotted dress but still want to incorporate the playful pattern into your outfit, shoes are the perfect way to do it. You can easily hide them under your dress or pull it up a bit to show them off!

5. Striped and Dotted Thank You Notes: Polka dots and stripes work together in a way that nobody can really explain. Both patterns are so simple, yet somehow when they come together it’s visual magic. (via Ruffled Blog)

6. Golden and Sugar: Gold can be an overpowering color if used too freely. This cake is a perfect example of how to incorporate the metallic shade in a subtle yet playful way. (via 100 Layer Cake)

7. Bridal Party Polka Dots: Because who says bridesmaids can’t wear prints? We love the idea of the bride glowing in white while her best gals sport flirty polka dots. (via Perfect Palette)

8. Pom Pom Balloons: Because nothing says party quite like balloons. Add some color to your wedding palette with this quick balloon DIY. Use all different colors for something playful, or just one for a more refined look. (via Design Improvised)

9. Polka Dot Lanterns: Ditch the disco lamp, these cute lighting fixtures are all you need for your big day. If you can’t find any lanterns in a polka dot print, just grab some paint! This would be a super simple DIY project. (via Perfect Palette)

10. Ombre Dotted Cake: A cake of cascading polka dots? It could taste like cardboard and we’d probably still love it. (via Mod Wedding)

11. Paper Vases: If you’re looking to make your own centerpieces, this is a cheap, easy option. Find a milk jug/mason jar/thrift store vase (whatever works!) and use a fun colored washi tape to attach a paper printout. (via Weddings by Lily)

12. Gold Foil Polka Dot Backdrop: Because everyone knows nothing fun happened unless you Instagrammed it. Give guests a fun backdrop for getting their silly on. To create your own, simply cut out gold foil or contact paper circles and arrange them on a colored background of your choosing. (via Brit + Co)

13. Polka Dot Garland: Holy Mother of color! Sometimes bright, large polka dots like this can look a little cartoonish, but it totally works here. If it’s still a little bright for your taste just tone it down by only using two or three colors. (via Style Me Pretty)

14. Light Purple Paper Straws ($2+): That open bar is great. But you know what would make it even better? If you could be slurping down those free gin and tonics with an adorable dotted straw.

15. Wooden Arrow: Direct guests to the ceremony and give them a taste of all the pretty polka dots to come. (via Style Me Pretty)

16. Table Confetti: Instead of a traditional tablecloth, scatter colored dots across the tables for a festive look that falls somewhere in between confetti and polka dots. (via The Sweetest Occasion)

17. Blusher Veil ($62): If you think veils are old fashioned, think again. This polka dotted headpiece will have you shielding your face in no time. (via Aisle Perfect)

18. Polka Dot Aisle: So you really want to go for the polka dot theme? Do it big with a spotted aisle! We’re not totally sure how this stays in tact while the bride struts to center stage, but it sure does look pretty. (via Colin Cowie Weddings)

19. Party Popcorn: Partying that hard is going to work up an appetite. Send guests home with a fun snack that stays on theme. (via Brit + Co)

20. Painted Candles: Here’s an easy dollar store fix-up! Grab some plain candle holders and paint designs that coordinate with your color scheme. (via Creature Comfort)

What do you think about a themed wedding? Any cool theme ideas you know of?

Cortney Clift
Cortney is the senior writer and special projects editor at Brit + Co. She typically covers topics related to women's issues, politics, and lifestyle. When she's not buried behind her computer you'll find her exploring New York City or planning her next big adventure.