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.

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.

The Updated White Tee

When the agenda calls for something smart-casual, a peplum T-shirt and silk trousers are an easy answer. A Balenciaga peplum tee paired with fluid silk pants strikes that perfect balance between relaxed and refined. Add silver jewelry and a glove pump, and it quickly becomes an office look that can easily carry you into dinner.

The Plaid Pairing

We all love a one-and-done moment; a gingham matching set does all the styling for you. This peplum top and trousers duo is playful but pulled together—especially when dressed up with the season’s netted It-bag and a mint-colored pair of loafers for a sweet spring look.

The Maximalist Palette

If you’re not one to shy away from color, team up Ashlyn’s peplum top with printed Ben-Day dot trousers by Dries Van Noten for a nod to mod. As soon as it’s weather-appropriate to do so, throw on a pair of heeled flip-flops, sleek sunglasses, and a raffia bag to get you in the summer mindset.

The Cocktail Attire

Opt for a simple column skirt and a strapless peplum for a dressy event—say, a wedding with a cocktail dress code—or even a sophisticated look for the office. (If the latter, throw on a blazer for a strong layering moment.)

The All-White Look

When in doubt, go monochromatic. Head-to-toe white peplum feels especially fresh for spring and summer; whether styled with slacks, flat sandals, or a beaded necklace. It’s the kind of outfit that can move from the office to an early evening spritz.

The Elevated Denim

Think of the peplum as the button-down’s more dressed-up cousin. This Liberowe blouse cinches your waist, no belt needed; pair it with rinse-wash denim and strappy red heels for a pop of color, and a roomy tote to carry your on-the-go essentials. (Our preference these days: The Row Marcel bag.)

The Shorts Sequence

Tonal shades of green put you in the springtime mood in no time: Try High Sport’s strapless celery-colored peplum top with A. Emery shorts for a chic pairing. For the accessories, think of those statement pieces that instantly spice up simplicity: a shell necklace, for instance, or electric blue flip flops and shield sunglasses for a sporty edge.