I never thought I’d be asking this in 2025, but here we are—is peplum back?

If you had asked me a year ago, I would have said absolutely not. Peplum tops and dresses were a staple of my high school wardrobe, right up there with statement necklaces and ballet flats. At the time, they felt like the perfect mix of polished and playful. But as trends shifted toward more relaxed silhouettes—think oversized blazers, flowy button-ups, and minimalist tailoring—I assumed peplum was one of those trends we collectively agreed to leave in the past.

Yet, here we are, and fashion is proving once again that nothing ever really disappears. Designers like Alexander McQueen, and Dior have reintroduced peplum into their collections, but with a fresh, modern twist. The 2025 version is less bubble-hemmed and overtly girly and more structured, subtle, and wearable. And while my high school self would have styled peplum with a bandage skirt and chunky jewelry, my twenty-something self is all about making it look effortlessly chic.

How to Wear Peplum Without Feeling Like You’re Back in 2013

If you’re intrigued by the peplum revival but hesitant to relive your teenage fashion choices, here’s how to make it work for now.

1. Balance Proportions

The biggest mistake we all made back in the day? Pairing peplum with equally fitted pieces, which made the look feel a little too try-hard. In 2025, the key is contrast. A structured peplum blazer over relaxed trousers or wide-leg jeans? Chic. A peplum tank with tailored shorts? A win. Keeping the bottom half looser balances out the flared silhouette on top.

2. Go for a Minimalist Approach

Early 2010s peplum often came with bright colors, bold prints, or extra embellishments. Today, it’s all about clean lines and neutral tones. Opt for a monochrome peplum top in black, white, or beige, and let the silhouette do the talking. Bonus points if it’s in a luxe fabric like linen, crepe, or structured cotton.

3. Layer It Up

A peplum blouse layered under a boxy blazer adds just the right amount of femininity without feeling dated. You can also try a peplum vest over a fitted long-sleeve top for a more contemporary, cool-girl vibe.

4. Ditch the Pumps, Add Cool Shoes

One of the easiest ways to modernize peplum is with footwear. Instead of classic pumps or ballet flats, go for chunkier sandals, sleek mules, or pointed-toe boots. It instantly shifts the look from high school dance to street style star.

5. Try Peplum in Unexpected Ways

If the classic peplum top still feels a little too nostalgic, ease into the trend with peplum-adjacent pieces. A structured peplum waist on a blazer or a subtle ruffle detail on a midi skirt can give you that same cinched effect without the full throwback.

So… Are We Wearing Peplum Again?

Honestly, I think we might be. The key is to embrace it in a way that feels fresh and not like a flashback to our high school fashion choices. If styled right, peplum can actually be super flattering, sophisticated, and yes, even cool. So while I never thought I’d be here saying this… peplum might just be back in my wardrobe rotation.

What do you think? Are you ready to give peplum another chance? Or is this one trend you’re leaving in the past? 

Love, Laura