Flowers are blooming and temperatures seem to be back on track for the season, meaning my wardrobe can get itself back on track for the season as well.  I feel like I really haven’t addressed enough spring fashion as of late, so this column is dedicated to adding a little spring pep into everyone’s step.  I’m borderline obsessed with one fresh new concept that’s both flirtatious and fun, and I simply love it when shapely silhouettes become the forefront the fashion industry.  Gone are the days of the skin tight mini skirt or barely there bandeau.  There’s a new flirt in town, and it goes by the name of a peplum.

Blake Lively wearing a Peplum Dress,
Image courtesy of teenvogue.com

I carried a peplum dress in my store in fall 2010 believe it or not, when it was still up in the air as to whether or not the trend would really catch on. Since then, it’s done a little more than catch on, and is currently in just about every store, in the form of skirts, tops, and dresses.  If you’re not quite sure what a peplum even is, let me just tell you that it’s pure bliss.  The word ‘peplum’ originates from Greece and refers to a short overskirt.  It’s usually protrudes slightly from the natural waist into a short skirt that accentuates a slim waist and adds a big of volume (in a flattering way) to the hips.  Peplums come in all varieties of pleats and ruffles as well as in varying lengths.  It’s a retro concept without being too dainty, modern peplums are popping up in bold prints and pastel neon hues, making them surprisingly new and fresh. 

1. Peplum Skirt:  The peplum pencil skirt is both cute and sophisticated, which are two concepts that are tough to get out of one article of clothing.  If you’re a business gal, opt for a peplum pencil skirt to add to your work wardrobe this spring.  They’re available at literally every price point and pattern right now, so choose one that suits your style and personality.  The skirts also vary in length and style, so choose what’s right for you!  If you want to cover your back side, chose a skirt that dips in the back.  If you have boyish figure and need to create some curves, opt for a shorter, straight peplum style in a bold print.  If you choose a peplum in a contrasting color or print from the actual body of the skirt, this will create an even shapelier silhouette.  The possibilities are endless!
2. Peplum Top:  This is probably my favorite peplum style right now, because it’s so new for spring.  Available in strapless, tank, or cap sleeve styles to name a few, the peplum top creates a slim waistline and a little bit of flounce.  Plus it can be worn with pants or shorts, which makes it the most user-friendly of all peplum styles.  Chose a bold color (think tangerine… the top color of spring) or a fun print for a pop of color over a pair of basic black pants.
3. Peplum Dress:  This is probably the safest way to rock the peplum trend because it requires no options of a second piece.  A black peplum dress is both naturally slimming and figure flattering, making it the best bet for a peplum newbie.  Since it has an overskirt to hide an imperfect midsection, it’s a spring trend that’s actually wearable for just about anyone, and creates an eye catching illusion of all the right curves.  Rock this style to a wedding or cocktail party this spring and summer and you’re bound to get showered with compliments.

No matter what your personal style, there’s likely a peplum out there for you this spring.  From black peplum tops with embellishments to floral peplum dresses, there’s something out there for the edgy girl to the girly girl, and everything in between.  This style is also available in mature, sophisticated styles, making it appropriate for almost any age group as well.  Have fun with the hottest trend of spring, and be sure to add at least one of these peplum styles to your closet this spring.