Rarely do styles emerge that are flattering on all body types, but peplums seem to be just that. Peplum tops and dresses are certainly not a new trend, and they don’t seem to be going anywhere. A peplum is a ruffle of fabric added to an item of clothing that flares at the hips or the waist. Peplums originated in the 1850s for practicality purposes, covering up corsets and adding an additional layer to riding wear. They have gone in and out of style since, specifically in the 1930s, 40s, 80s, and today.
For many years, women have flocked to the style because of its waist-defining abilities, for women with and without clearly defined waists. Peplums look as good on the runway as they do on the street, traversing seasonal and occasion boundaries. The resurgence of the trend began around 2011, following Miranda Kerr’s appearance on the red carpet wearing a Peter Pilotto peplum dress. Though some fashion magazines and blogs predicted a downhill trend for the style in 2013, it has pulled through, becoming popular once more just the next year.
Peplums from the 1850s to present.
The peplums of 2016 are more refined and less attention grabbing as those of just a few years ago, striking a better balance between the avant-garde and the everyday. If you haven’t yet, give in to the trend, because it doesn’t seem to be going anywhere. With a plethora of options available, you will surely find a peplum to fit your style and your figure.
-Katherine Littel
Images courtesy of Atlantic-Pacific, Celebuzz, and Corsets and Crinolines.