How to wear summer’s puffed-out peplum trend

It's this season's big silhouette story

The last time peplum had its heyday was circa 2012, when it really was the reigning silhouette among trendy women everywhere.

But ever since it became mainstream among the style set, it lost its sartorial appeal. That is, until now.

Summer’s big silhouette story, peplums have officially returned to the fashion fold but this time round they’ve ditched their prissy pretence in favour of larger-than-life proportions and shape-making shifts.

Multi Coloured Stripe Tie Front Peplum Cami, £15.99, New Look

This season, the new peplum has been championed on the runway by a host of designers including Danish up-and-comer Cecilie Bahnsen.

Using sculpture as a natural starting point, Bahnsen sent models out in stark-white peplum tops with balloon sleeves and printed camisoles while full-skirted baby doll dresses bounced down the runway.

Peplum Cross Over Jacket, £39, Topshop

Elsewhere, Fendi ran with the theme of triangulation by creating jackets and off-shoulder tops that nipped at the waist and flared at the hem.

Meanwhile, Balenciaga showcased peplum camouflage T-shirts and polo tops alongside a torrent of noughties trends like cargo pants, shrunken sweaters and pumps.

Stripe Pleat Peplum Top, £25, Warehouse

A style that’s not only a hit on the runway, peplums are also seriously wearable, not to mention flattering but the trick here is to figure out a way to wear them that feels new once again.

Surprisingly versatile, a peplum top can be dressed down with straight-leg jeans or paired with a skirt that hits just above the knee by night.

Adam Lippes, Ruffle-Trimmed Cotton-Poplin Peplum Top, £620, Net-a-Porter

Alternatively, think outside the box and don’t restrict yourself to tops alone. Instead, explore the different options a peplum can take from jackets to dresses.

Peplum Top with Smocking, £17.99, H&M