Written by Ashley – Flagler College

peplum on the spring 2012 runways
Marc by Marc Jacobs, Cynthia Rowley, Giambattista Valli & Giorgio Armani Spring 2012 RTW | Elle

If you’ve flipped through a fashion magazine or gone shopping for some new spring duds recently, you’ll know that peplum silhouettes are a HUGE trend this spring.

In case you didn’t know, peplum refers to a piece with a ruffle around the waist, which adds volume while creating a flattering hourglass shape. Tops, skirts, dresses and jackets have undergone a peplum makeover this season and it looks like this trend will be sticking around for at least the rest of the year.

Need some outfit ideas before you rock this trend? Scroll on down to check out four spring-appropriate ways to wear peplum this season:

If you’re looking for an easygoing, yet stylish way to wear peplum, look no further than this coral-colored blouse — the simple silhouette and bright color make it perfect for daytime. Since peplum is so voluminous, always pair it with sleek and streamlined pieces — like skinny jeans and wedge sandals — to keep the outfit from looking too over-the-top. A bold striped clutch adds interest, while geometric stud earrings and a sculptural statement necklace add a touch of glamour.

peplum top outfit idea
Product Info: Earrings- Kendra Scott, Top- ModCloth, Bag- Madewell, Jeans- Mango, Shoes- Swell, Necklace- Nasty Gal

Peplum dresses are versatile pieces and accordingly, they can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. This seafoam green frock has been styled for a semi-formal evening with some dressy sandals and a delicate laser-cut handbag. When wearing peplum, consider accessorizing with a skinny belt, as it will further accentuate that hourglass shape — in this case, we added an edgy leopard print belt. Lastly, add a pair of stylish oversized earrings to make a chic statement.

peplum dress outfit idea
Product Info: Earrings- Bebe, Dress- Dorothy Perkins, Bag- Nordstrom, Shoes- DSW, Belt- Old Navy

Peplum skirts have a such a fun, flirty vibe, and pairing this red skirt with a bold polka-dot blouse really emphasizes that feminine look. Black pointy-toe flats elongate the legs, while a matching purse adds a sophisticated touch. Accessorize with rose-shaped drop earrings and a rhinestone bracelet for a cute and girly outfit.

peplum skirt outfit idea
Product Info: Earrings- LC Lauren Conrad, Top- Republic, Skirt- ModCloth, Bag- Forever 21, Shoes- H&M, Bracelet- ModCloth

Peplum jackets can add polish to any outfit and that’s just what this floral print number does for an otherwise low-key look. Start by pairing basic black shorts with a simple striped tee, then layer on the peplum jacket. The jacket already comes with a belt (score!) and therefore really cinches in the waist. Add a pair of masculine oxfords, then accessorize with a glam mint green cocktail ring. For the finishing touch add some gold-rimmed sunglasses for a casual, yet chic look.

peplum jacket outfit idea
Product Info: Jacket- Forever 21, Top- J. Crew, Sunglasses- ModCloth, Shorts- H&M, Ring- Forever 21, Shoes- ASOS

What do you think of this trend? Would you ever wear peplum? What do you think of the outfits? Which one is your favorite? How would you wear peplum? Remember to leave a comment below and tell us what you think!

Posted on on April 8, 2012 / Filed Under: Trends / Tags: How To, Outfit Ideas, Peplum, Spring 2012, Trends