Dare to Flare

While my recent closet cravings include ladylike blouses, plenty of ruffles along with pleated pieces and conversational prints, one Spring trend stands out amongst the rest: Peplums! If you are unfamiliar with this term, a peplum is a short, flared strip of fabric that is attached at the waist of a jacket, dress, blouse or skirt. Peplums: waist-whittling effect.

Peplums are anything but new, even though designers such as Celine, Giambattista Valli, Jason Wu and Christian Dior paraded them down their Spring 2012 runways. The cut was popularized in the 1800s and resurfaced in the 1940s as well as the ‘80s. That said, they are back and with a vegeance! On the S/S '12 runways it became the silhouette story of the season, and the trend is still going strong.

I personally love how the trend translates on tops. Dare to flare? It’s a fun and feminine twist on your standard blouse. There’s just something so chic about their architectural yet sleek shape. 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 great for masking not-so-flat stomachs. Instant tummy tuck. Not only is it super flattering, it’s a versatile style that you can easily outfit from day to night.

For skirts and dresses, I actually prefer a smaller peplum. If you have naturally wide-set hips like me, 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 an hourglass illusion. Nevertheless, regardless of your shape, I think this is a trend most women can pull of. Just be conscious of your shape and wear what works for you-you’re either a top or a bottom peplum girl. 

 

This added ruffle adds a perfect ladylike flair to your ensemble. Slimming your waistline and accentuating your beautiful, womanly curves at the same time—what’s not to love? When choosing your perfect peplum, keep in mind there are two versions: fitted and flared. If you want to show off an hourglass figure, choose a fitted peplum. Flared, will add curves to your hips and is the perfect choice for boy-shaped bodies. 

xoxo,

Kat