Picture a typical going out outfit circa 2010. Chances are it involves a pair of skinny jeans worn with a peplum top. If that image makes you cringe, prepare to cringe some more because guess what? Yes, just like how painted-on denim has been steadily creeping back into the social consciousness, the trend cycle has also brought back another controversial Millennial silhouette: the peplum. But before you dust off that American Apparel one from the depths of your closet, the 2026 iteration is a more sculptural, elegant version that calls for creative styling.
Dries Van Noten
Giovanni Giannoni/WWD
Take a cue from the spring 2026 runways, which offered up ample evidence for the peplum’s return along with ideas on how to wear it. Phoebe Philo’s version, a backless white tank with a dramatic ruffle that curves across the waist and up the shoulder blades transforms the silhouette into an avant-garde sculpture. Worn with long cream colored shorts that featured fraying hems, the balance of casual and glamorous feels appropriately fresh. Meanwhile over at Dries Van Noten, Julian Klausner teamed a classic gray bustier peplum with a printed skirt while another look featured low slung trousers with the waist accent worn with a bralette.
