How To Style Peplum Tops: Your Ultimate Guide To A Modern & Chic Look

Ah, the peplum top. For many, the mere mention of it might conjure images of 2010s business casual, perhaps even a "bad throwback" look. But surprise, surprise! The peplum top has undergone a remarkable transformation, shedding its old skin to emerge as a truly versatile and incredibly flattering wardrobe staple. Clearly, a peplum is no longer a relic of past trends; they can be sleek, edgy, and even futuristic.

Today’s take on the peplum is more sculptural than saccharine, more polished than prim. It's time to re-imagine this design from scratch. If you're looking to avoid falling into the trap of outdated styling, you've come to the right place. We've compiled a list of fresh, modern ways to style peplum tops that are equal parts flattering and comfortable. Let's dive in and explore chic outfit ideas for incorporating this piece into your personal style.

Why the Peplum Top is Your Wardrobe's Secret Weapon

Before we jump into styling, let's appreciate why the peplum top deserves a spot in your closet. The super-flattering style nips you in right at your waist, flaring out at your hips to accentuate an hourglass figure. This unique silhouette is fantastic for creating definition and balancing proportions. For instance, if you have wide hips and narrow shoulders, a peplum top can perfectly balance your shape, creating a harmonious look.

After much experimenting, I've realized that peplum tops are actually pretty versatile. You can dress them up or down, depending on what you pair them with. And they can add a bit of unexpected flair to even the simplest outfits. This piece truly works with a variety of outfits, regardless of your personal style.

Modern Peplum: Beyond the Bandage Dress Era

The key to styling a peplum top in 2024 (and beyond) is to look for modern iterations. Forget the stiff, overly structured versions of yesteryear. Today's peplums embrace fluidity, unique details, and sophisticated fabrics. Look for a peplum top or sweater with a dropped waist to create a long torso and dramatic ruffles for dimension. These subtle changes make all the difference, transforming the peplum from a dated item into a contemporary fashion statement.

Chic Ways to Style Your Peplum Top

Ready to take your outfit to the next level? Here are some stylish ways to wear peplum tops, ensuring you don't fall into the trap of wearing the same look every day.

1. Peplum Tops with Jeans: The Effortless Chic

This is arguably the most common and beloved pairing, and for good reason. Peplum tops can be dressed down for a relaxed and stylish casual outfit. Pair your peplum top with well-fitted jeans for an effortless yet chic appearance. Whether it's classic blue denim, distressed denim, or even a sleek black pair, this combination is a winner.

For a laid-back daytime look, try a white short-sleeve form-fitting peplum blouse with blue cuffed skinny jeans. Add a boho-style statement necklace and brown ankle strap open sandals for a touch of casual elegance.
Experiment with different jean styles: skinny, straight-leg, or even a trendy wide-leg. The key is to ensure the jeans are well-fitted to balance the volume of the peplum.

2. Power Dressing with Peplum: Beyond Black & Grey

Who says power dressing has to be boring? A peplum top can elevate your professional wardrobe, making you look like a manager or a leader without always resorting to black or grey. Sometimes, it's the cutting and the fabric of your outfit that truly makes a statement.

Simply wear a sleeveless peplum top with wide-leg pants and nude heeled sandals. This creates a sophisticated, modern, and powerful silhouette.
Consider pairing your peplum top with tailored cigarette pants or even loose trousers for a polished office look. The peplum adds a touch of femininity and style to a traditionally formal ensemble.

3. Relaxed Peplum with a Special Detail

Not all peplums are about sharp structure. Many modern designs lean into a more relaxed, feminine vibe with special details. Think about a cable stitch ribbed peplum tank in a soft rose color, or perhaps white or navy if pink isn't your thing. Love how feminine yet relaxed this top is!

Look for peplum tops with subtle ruffles, delicate lace inserts, or unique fabric textures. These details add interest without overwhelming the silhouette.
This style can even tap into the "cottagecore" trend with its frilly details, offering a softer, more romantic take on the peplum.

4. Day-to-Night Versatility

The peplum top is incredibly adaptable, easily transitioning from daytime casual to evening chic. This makes it an essential piece for going out with friends, laidback solo moments, and beyond.

For daytime, style it with casual pieces like a leather jacket and your favorite jeans or tailored trousers.
To transform it for an evening out, swap your flats for heels, add some statement jewelry, and perhaps a clutch. A black peplum top is particularly versatile for this transition.

5. Accessorizing Your Peplum Look

Accessories can make or break an outfit, and this holds true for peplum tops. From pairing with jeans to accessorizing with statement pieces, these tips will have you looking your best.

**Necklaces:** Depending on the neckline of your peplum top, a statement necklace can draw attention upwards and complement the silhouette.
**Belts:** While the peplum naturally nips in at the waist, a thin belt can further define your waistline if your top allows for it, adding an extra layer of style.
**Shoes:** The right shoes can completely change the vibe. Heels elevate the look, while flats or sneakers can make it more casual. Nude heels are always a safe bet for elongating the legs when wearing wide-leg pants.

6. Winter Ready Peplum

Don't pack away your peplum tops when the temperature drops! It's best to start adding peplum tops to your wardrobe now as it will be the best choice for winter. They will be available in stores and markets, but before purchasing it, make sure what kind of fabric and sleeve length suits your winter needs.

Look for peplum tops in thicker fabrics like knit, wool blends, or even velvet.
Layer a long-sleeved peplum top under a blazer or a tailored coat for a chic and warm ensemble.
Pair them with dark-wash jeans, leather pants, or tailored trousers and ankle boots for a sophisticated winter look.

7. Experiment with Prints and Sets

Don't shy away from patterns or matching sets. From printed sets to the most polished suits, you can see all the chic possibilities. A printed peplum top can be a fantastic focal point for your outfit, adding personality and flair.

Try a peplum top in a bold floral, geometric, or abstract print. Pair it with solid-colored bottoms to let the top shine.
Consider a matching peplum top and skirt or pant set for a coordinated, high-fashion look that requires minimal styling effort.

What can you pair with a peplum top? Depending on the length of your peplum, you can wear the following things underneath the top: Pants (denim, tulip, cigarette) or Trousers (loose, close-fitted). The options are truly endless!

Final Thoughts

The peplum top has proven to be a versatile staple that works with a variety of outfits, regardless of your personal style. It's no longer a fashion faux pas but a chic, flattering, and incredibly adaptable piece that deserves a prominent place in your wardrobe. By choosing modern designs and pairing them thoughtfully with the right bottoms and accessories, you can create looks that are fresh, sophisticated, and perfectly on-trend. We have made a list of ideas on how to style and what to wear with peplum tops, and hopefully, these tips inspire you to embrace the peplum and elevate your everyday style.