Whether we like it or not, the peplum top is back. Once filed away as a polarizing trend of the early aughts, the waist-defining silhouette is stepping back into the limelight by way of the spring 2026 collections—more sculptural and defined, less fussy and flowy. Its resurgence even has me reconsidering it. But how, exactly, does one go about styling this dramatic shape in a way that feels current?
For inspiration, I’m looking to the spring/summer 2026 runways: At Ashlyn, peplums appeared paired with a variety of sleeve shapes, each one more modern than the last. Dries Van Noten styled the top with printed board shorts, giving it a playful, beach-y look. Adam Lippes leaned into quiet elegance via an all-white monochromatic look, while Khaite made the peplum feel sharp and architectural, pairing it with a statement skirt and cropped jacket. At Stella McCartney, the opening look used a belt to cinch in the waist, in a nod to the Y2K era.
Vogue’s Favorite Peplum Tops
It turns out, the peplum’s top surprising versatility may be precisely the thing I love most about it—I plan to style it in numerous ways whenever I need something that makes me feel instantly polished. Below, a few ideas for how to wear this divisive piece in 2026.
The Capri Way
For those already on the ’90s bandwagon, consider this your next foray. A scoop-neck peplum top paired with a slim pair of capris feels nostalgic yet contemporary. Style Khaite’s peplum with Róhe’s capris, and accessorize with strappy sandals and a soft pouch bag to lean into minimalism.
