How to make peplum flatter your figure

by Brittany Anas · December 18, 2012

By Brittany Anas

The right peplum blouse, skirt or dress can give you Sofia Vergara-like curves. Peplum traditionally is form-fitting and flounces near the hip, a structure that is truly feminine. The fit came into style last spring after being mostly in hibernation since the 1980’s. (It also was in style in the 1940’s, appearing subtly on dresses).

The peplum trend is going strong and we’ll be seeing lots more of it this spring, embellished with polka dots, stripes and floral patterns and in whatever solid colors spring serves us.

Here’s how to make it work for your curves — not against them.

Pair with skinny-fit jeans or a pencil skirt:

Because peplum flares out at the hip, you’ll want to wear pants or a skirt that slims you through your waist to give you an hourglass shape. We love peplum mixed with skinny jeans and heels or with a form-fitting pencil skirt. For a seek look, opt for a pair of black pants or skirts. For a weekend look, go with denim. And, for a casual-chic appearance, mix with a pair of patterned pants.

If you have a larger bust, look for peplum tops that hit lower at the waist. It will extend your torso.

Avoid low-waisted denim or boot-cut jeans with peplum.

Belt it and accessorize the collar:

To get a lean look, accentuate a peplum top by wearing a belt at the hemline before it flounces (don’t hook it too tight) or wear a necklace with a longer chain. If you wear a scarf, wear a light-weight one circle-looped around your neck. If it drapes too low, you risk looking bulky.

Wear it on a skirt or dress:

If you’re still warming up to the trend and aren’t comfortable with where it cinches on blouses, you don’t have to miss out on the trend. Dresses have peplum-inspired ruffles that flare out at the bottom and skirts have peplum details near the hip.

Shop the photos:

Photo 1:
Navy and burgundy baroque skinny jeans from Target for $22.99

Similar burgundy peplum blouse from Alloy for $16.90

Similar leopard clutch from Etsy for $42.

Photo 2: Oxblood and black faux leather peplum top from Urban Outfitters for $44

Photo 3: Black peplum skirt from Dr. Jay’s for $19.99

Photo 4: Black peplum mini dress from Asos for $79.16

Photo 5: Laced peplum top from Anthropologie for $98

Photo 6: Forest green peplum top from Zara for $69.90