
While my recent closet cravings include ladylike tanks, plenty of ruffles and tulle along with pleated pieces and conversational prints, one spring trend stands out amongst the rest: Peplums! If you're unfamiliar with this term, a peplum is basically a short, flared strip of fabric that is attached at the waist of a jacket, dress or blouse.
Even though designers such as Celine, Giambattista Valli, Jason Wu and Christian Dior paraded them down their spring 2012 runways, peplums are anything but new. The cut was popularized in the 1800s and resurfaced in the 1940s as well as the '80s. That said, they are back--and with vengeance! Put it this way: Vogue dedicated 6 pages to the trend in their January 2012 issue in a spread called, "Dare to Flare."
Personally, I love how the trend translates on tops. It's a fun and feminine twist on your standard blouse. There's just something so chic about their architectural yet sleek shape. Plus I think it's so refreshing to finally see the return of the waist after so many seasons of loose-fitting, baggy silhouettes! Peplum tops nip the natural waist and are also great for masking not-so-flat stomachs. (I even designed a few for my LC Lauren Conrad collection for Kohl's.)
As for skirts and dresses, I actually prefer a smaller peplum. If you already have naturally wide-set hips, sometimes the extra fabric can make you look broader than you actually are. However, if you have a boyish figure both top and bottom peplums will work for you since they instantly create the illusion of an hourglass frame. Nevertheless, regardless of your shape, I honestly think this is a trend most women can pull off. Just be conscious of your shape and wear what works for you--more often than not, you're either a top or a bottom peplum kind of girl.
Here are five of my favorite peppy peplum pieces:

From left: Top with '40s Peplum, Pencil Skirt with Frill, Dress with Frill at Waist, Mint Textured Peplum Skirt, Eyelet Peplum Top
What do you think about the peplum trend? Are you going to give it a try?
Also, be sure to take a peek at how member Casey Lynn rocks the peplum look!
XO Lauren
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Photo: Katie Ermilio
79 comments
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Peplums are out-there enough to catch someone's eye, but understated enough to not feel too fancy. Perfect way to spice up an outfit!
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I love peplums! I love that they add that additional feminine touch to an outfit.
I will try peplums on my next skirt. Thanks Lauren!!
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I love peplums...I even wrote a blog piece that was very similar! I admire your taste! :) http://www.classywithakick.com/2012/05/try-this-trendpeplums.html
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I love all those peplum pieces, espcially the mint green skirt from Zara!
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I love peplums on tops, skirts, & dresses....the classic 40's feel is just perfect & so ladylike :) If I find an affordable version that fits right I will definitely snatch it up!
~Jacy
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Loving these. They're my favourite trend!
Love from South Africa
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Dont think this trend is for me. I have an hourglass figure and I think it would make my hips look even bigger.
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I thought i'd link to my post with a peplum and pink jeans - very similiar to this. teamed it with my must have H&M accessories too :)
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I like this trend! Really pretty and a lot of possibilities wearing it (casual, elegant, sporty,..).
I didn't buy one but I 'DIY' with a old dress wich I didn't wear anymore :)
XO Jenn,
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love the top picture...
http://small-little-thing.blogspot.com/2012/05/salad-with-broad-beans-and-feta-cheese.html
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Peplum are definitely a must have summer fashion :), I wrote a blog post on how to wear them and where to find them on a budget. Check it out: http://www.lushfabglam.com/2012/05/spring-style-trends-peplum-dresses.html
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I have a peplum skirt that i got from syndey fashion week..the best skirt i even bought!! love the trend and the post :)
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Love the peplum trend! Too bad I made a commitment not to buy anything fashion related for an entire year....yikes! :)
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I'm so scared of this trend, even though I think it's really girly and pretty. I'm not sure if I'll wear it right... LOL
Liesl xxx
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I love peplums, purely because the give you a fabulous shape and are beyond feminine :) I have one in a lime green and it adds the perfect pop of colour x
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Ruffles are so adorable!
xo Emilie
PS please check out my latest blog post @ http://www.hungrydelights.com/ -
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I love peplum blouses, they're so easy to style and look so flattering.
I have a cream one which i've featured a few times on my style blog - I also shot another post today with it too which will be going live this week :)
Mel x


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