Queen Mary gives polka dots an autumnal update with cinnamon-toned co-ord - this shade has tempted me away from pastels
It's still too warm for knitwear but the Queen of Denmark is starting to embrace the next season in a subtle way
The weather is still warm but autumn outfit ideas are all I keep thinking about and there's an easy way you can dress to suit both seasons. Tones like chocolate brown, burnt orange and olive green are starting to creep into new releases and the Queen of Denmark has embraced this.
She was one of several royals who attended the opening of the 2026 FEI World Championships on 11th August. Queen Mary stepped out for the occasion in a cinnamon-toned Diane von Furstenberg co-ord that could be mistaken for a dress.
The top was halterneck and tucked neatly into the high-rise waistband of the flowing skirt. She cleverly made the join between the two items more discreet by adding a slim belt over the top.
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Crafted from breathable cotton poplin, this halterneck dress is a light and elegant option for warmer days. It's got shirring on the bodice for some subtle texture and the drop waist flows into a full midi-length skirt. The waistband is elasticated and the belt is removeable.
Featuring a sweeping boat neckline and flowing skirt, this dress is a gorgeous piece for summer and autumn events. It's got cap sleeves and the design also comes in a range of other colours too. The chocolate brown and white colourway is similar to Queen Mary's co-ord and is easy to style.
This cotton midi dress is still available in certain sizes and it's got flattering elbow-length sleeves and a defined waist. There's smocking at the back for comfort and it would pair perfectly with tan, brown or white accessories. On cooler days layer a blazer or denim jacket over the top.
Shop More Autumnal Polka Dots
The Phase Eight Alia jumpsuit has a bold spot print and the chestnut and white colourway is beautiful for autumn as well as summer. It creates a co-ord aesthetic with the layered bodice which has a scalloped hem. The wide-legs are slightly cropped and there are handy side pockets.
Olive green is set to be a huge colour trend for autumn 2026 and this patterned top would work so well with everything from blue jeans to black trousers. It's made from comfy cotton jersey and has a wrap front and delicate ruching, as well as puff sleeves.
This maxi skirt has a satin-esque elasticated waistband and is made from pleated mesh fabric that gives it a beautiful amount of texture and movement. There are two pockets at the sides and it's fully lined for comfort too. Tuck in a plain T-shirt or jumper and this will do all the talking.
Polka dots are the Princess of Wales's go-to pattern and Mary's set featured micro white dots all over. The smaller the print, the more subtle the design is, and dots are one of the most classic patterns.
They've also been massively on trend for summer, though we're used to seeing a lot of black and white, navy and white and red and white designs and the Queen chose a more autumnal combination. Orange-brown hues have a rich, warm undertone and are a softer alternative to wearing dark brown right now.
They're also neutral which means they can work with an array of other colours. Back in 2022 the Princess of Wales wore a polka dot dress from Rixo in a very similar tone when she accompanied her children to Lambrook School and she wore brown suede court heels with it.
Queen Mary styled her top and skirt with bronze peep-toe heels and carried a contrasting black mini tote bag. Equestrian events like the FEI World Championships tend to have a smarter dress code and if she'd wanted to make this ensemble more casual, it wouldn't be difficult to do.
White trainers or flat sandals and a raffia bag would've brought a summery edge and coordinated with the white polka dots. When autumn arrives and the weather is cooler you could layer a blazer or denim jacket over the top of a spotty dress depending on the occasion.
Mary carried a black tailored jacket with her just in case but didn't seem to need it in Germany. She's owned her polka dot co-ord since at least 2018 and has worn it styled in a few different ways, including with gold strappy heels during her visit to Brazil in 2024.
The Queen of Denmark usually opts for the set and clearly loves going bold with polka dots. However, you can take inspiration from her outfit and make it more pared-back by selecting a smaller item like a shirt or skirt with an autumnal dot design rather than a full dress, co-ord or jumpsuit.
Olive green, plum and burgundy are all great shades for the next season and if you go for a flowy silhouette and breathable materials like cotton or linen you can start wearing these pieces now without overheating.
