Cat Deeley proves polka dots are timeless – and her high street blouse is “selling like hotcakes”

Polka dots and Cat Deeley are becoming something of a perfect pairing. The TV presenter relies on the classic design for many an outfit, whether it’s while hosting her morning show or stepping out on the red carpet. Sensing a pattern? I am – and Cat’s latest This Morning outfit is on the same theme. We’re talking polka dots, we’re talking a classic blouse, and we’re talking a brilliant buy.

Heading up Tuesday’s edition of the ITV show with Ben Shepherd, Cat was giving me everything I want in an outfit for right now during this in between weather. Is there a better combination than a fancy blouse and jeans? For me, there isn’t. The 49-year-old wore a polka dot blouse from Boden, which she paired with jeans for a classic Cat combo.

Cat’s blouse is in fact a great investment buy. The 100% silk Sara shirt from Boden is in fact a modern, off-beat take on the timeless polka trend.

The sand coloured shirt (great if you’re not so keen on wearing pure white) features painted navy polka dots. It has a semi-fitted shape and matching navy buttons, and designed to fall to just above the waist.

The blouse is cut to be slim on the body, so I’d recommend taking your usual size; this isn’t a blouse to wear too oversized, although you could size up for a more billowy, boho-style look.

LATEST BODEN DISCOUNT: Boden is currently running an offer to save 15% on new styles; add code XCRM at checkout.

CAT’S EXACT BLOUSE: Boden Sara Silk Shirt

© Boden

It’s a great price for a pure silk shirt, and yes it’s an investment piece but one you’ll wear forever. Currently available in sizes 4 – 22, it also comes in regular fit and petite, made for women 5ft 3 and under.

How to wear a polka dot blouse like Cat

• Smart casual: As Cat proves, a polka dot blouse looks chic with jeans and heels; Cat wore her blouse tucked into the high waistband of her Donna Ida Minnie Wide Leg Flared Jeans in black. A pair of black pointed heeled boots and a gold pendant necklace from Craftd keep Cat’s look pared back, but with a little edge. It’s a great formula to take to your own wardrobe – a large gold necklace or earrings can really elevate a simple blouse and jeans outfit.
• For the office: Her blouse will also transition perfectly to a more tailored, smart look with wide leg trousers for the office or a smart pencil skirt. 
• At the weekend: And for a more casual vibe, swap the black jeans for a lighter wash and a slouchier fit; pin the look with a brown belt with gold detailing. You can also layer it under a knit, letting the collar pop for a flash of polka dots.

Get The Look For Less

Polka dot blouses are a high street staple, so depending on the sort you want, you’ll find plenty. For a more affordable version of Cat’s, head to M&S and their shirred polka dot blouse. It’s white with black polka dots and only £40.

New Look’s White Polka Dot Crinkle Blouse is a more relaxed alternative to Cat’s, priced at £25.99, or try H&M’s Tie Neck Blouse, made from a sheer chiffon for a peekaboo effect.

Cat’s latest This Morning outfits

Earlier in the week, Cat’s Zara skirt caught our eye as an easy way to wear with checks without looking too grunge. She wore a Zara Checks Midi Skirt, priced at £45.99, with a cream lightweight asymmetric neck cashmere knit from The White Company, on sale for £66.

© Instagram

I loved the way Cat styled the skirt. The cotton midi has an asymmetric, frayed hem which makes it a little more edgy than your classic check skirt. Worn with a simple knit and boots, it’s such an easy outfit to look instantly polished – and won’t break the bank either. Her jumper is similarly classic with an edge; note the diagonal neckline.