Peplum Power
It’s baaack..! Unless you’ve been living under a fashion rock for the last 4 years, you are no stranger to the Peplum. Dating back to the 1800’s, the 
Peplum first hits it’s fashion mark in the 1930-40’s, when this simple circle of fabric re-instilled the lost femininity and shape to women’s fashion during an era previously dominated by the masculine influences of war.
The peplum resurfaced in the 80’s providing a much needed balance between the over-the-top shoulder pads and tight skirts – aka Alexis Carrington.
Fast forward 30 years and the Peplum is back with a vengeance, with no signs of it going anywhere soon. What started as a trend in 2011, has continued to dominate the runway, reinvented each season in the key colours, fabric and prints. Variations in leather, lace, bold floral, tropical prints, cut-outs and colour-blocking are all featured next S/S 2013.
Peplum Masterclass
Proportion is key. Always balance out the flounce of the peplum with a fitted bottom half for a Peplum top or a fitted top with a Peplum Skirt.
Ensure you choose the right Peplum length to suit your body, if you have a short torso, the peplum should sit at or just below hip length. Vice-Versa for our long torso sisters.
Peplums are a great way to elevate your look, Throw on a gorgeous Peplum top with your favourite jeans, add some bling and your good to go – instead style cred!
Look for quality over quantity, one Peplum top in a fabulous print/material that suits you to a T and will work back with your existing wardrobe, is far better Cost Per Wear than multiple cheapies that will barely see you through the season.
Use the Rule of 3 when purchasing your peplum pieces, if you can’t visualise it working back with at least 3 other pieces you own, chances are it will never see the light of day.
Making the right choice in the neckline of your Peplum pieces is the difference between working the trend and just simply “wearing” the trend. The most flattering bodices are your basic thick strap tank style or strapless. Thin spaghetti straps or dramatically cut in armholes can throw your whole proportion off balance, defeating the whole purpose of this trend in the first place.
Fashion 101 Personal Styling
