An ode to the peplum

by YC

Carrie wearing a peplum dress

There are many trends in fashion that come and go, and then come again.  One of those would be the peplum.  The peplum, what is it? Glad you asked! You have just entered the classroom of a Bougie Girl…welcome to Fashion 101.  Hold on, this may go fast!

P-E-P-L-U-M is that extra, flouncy material placed conveniently to fall over the pooch – yes, I said pooch, although others would say the hips– area to flatter any woman’s figure.  The peplum allows you to look sexy after knowing that you devoured that slice of chocolate cake or had a baby a few months ago.  It doesn’t matter.  The peplum has you covered.

The peplum – or tunic as they called it - originated from the Greek, back in the 19^th century and is defined as a short overskirt attached to a jacket.  We saw the trend become popular in the 1940s with women’s fashion, expanding it from just jackets to skirts, blouses, and dresses.  In the 1980s, the peplum returned with polka dots and floral loose fit patterns, and then today, we have decided to try it again, but with a modern twist. 

Beyonce spotted wearing a peplum

Tina Fey in Carolina Herrera

Hollywood A-listers have been spotted wearing the trend.  During the 84^th Annual Academy Awards (Oscars), Michelle Williams took a stroll on the red carpet in a coral colored strapless Louis Vuitton peplum gown, as well as Tina Fey wearing Carolina Herrera.  But the peplum isn’t just for pomp and circumstance; it also has a casual side: One that pairs well with denim or leggings, as well as a flirty or fitted skirt.

 Today, the peplum is all about structure and sophistication. It gives the perfect allusion of Kim K like curves – okay that may be stretching it - and every woman wants those curves. Class dismiss!  

Kim K wearing Givenchy

Vintage couture dress, €862
Open back top, $65
Peplum top, $15
Peplum blazer, $27
Body con skirt, $25