No it’s not type of fruit, a speech impediment or a style of Scottish dancing (these are some of the options I was offered when I asked around….)

A peplum is defined by The Fairchild’s Dictionary of Fashion as an extension of a bodice that comes below the waistline, sometimes pleated, sometimes flared…. now does that help? Thought not. In easy, everyday terms, a peplum is a slightly flared detail on a blouse or a dress. It kinda looks like a little mini skirt around your waist.

Riiiiiiiight, I hear you say. But wait! It is actually a really flattering trend…. I found this great little top at Glassons (can you tell it’s my new favourite shopping destination??). Normally I would stay clear of such a high neckline (not so flattering on a larger bust) but I think the streamline shape of the top (and the fact that I’m wearing it with the same colour pants), plus the accessories, is a really feminine and flattering shape.

Top from Glassons, necklace from eBay

Peplum top from Glassons, necklace from eBay and pants are vintage Trelise Cooper (always wear a slimline pant or skirt to balance out the width of a peplum – it’s all about defining your waist and giving you a girlie figure!)

So now you know I can wear a peplum, but here is how you can too!

If you have a bigger bust: Asos have some great options with lower necklines that will flatter you bust-line. The peplum skirt detail will really emphasise a feminine shape whilst drawing attention away from your larger assets.

1.Asos peplum midi dress with v-neck ($83.56 NZ) 2. Hybrid dress with deep v-neck and pleated peplums from Asos($177.56 NZ) 3. Oasis pencil peplum dress from Asos ($135.78 NZ) 4. Asos midi strapless dress in stripe ($58.49 NZ)

If you are pear-shaped: Then the peplum is MADE for you!!! This style really emphasises how little your waist is and skims over your hips – it’s the ultimate hip-disguiser! This look from Cue draws all the attention to you upper body, whilst the combination of the black peplum on the top, and the black skirt all help camouflage your lower half.

Cue spliced racer top with peplum ($210 aus) and ruffle hem pencil skirt ($145 aus)

If you don’t have many curves: Hello – meet your new favourite style to wear then! Peplums emphasis a feminine shape so if it’s faux curves you want, it’s time to get your peplum on! (literally, go and put on one for instant hip). Portmans have a great selection of peplum options from skirts to tops to dresses.

Portmans: 1. Peplum waist ponti dress ($79.95) 2. Stripe peplum tee ($39.95) 3. Ponti peplum skirt ($69.95) – all in AUS $

There is a peplum-style outfit out there for almost everyone – you can wear a peplum top with jeans, or find a dress with a smaller peplum, there are prints and plain colours and most peplum-style garments are made from ponti (my new fave fabric) so there are really flattering! So have you found one yet?

Cait x