Since the nineteen seventies, the peplum dress has been in vogue and has remained a popular style ever since. It is a form of neckline known for its flat fronted shape. Its popularity has soared in recent times as designers have created new styles and improved their versatility. As a result, the peplum dress has become extremely versatile, being worn for casual occasions and chic formal parties. This article focuses on how you can incorporate this style into your wardrobe without compromising your sense of fashion.

vintage-1990s-floral-peplum-dress-3267079
Vintage 1990’s Floral Peplum Dress @£30.96 etsy.com

The dress is available in two main styles. One is a more conservative version, based around the button-fronted bodice and collar. Either version is incredibly flattering and is great for everyday wear. The most popular colour for this style is white.

blush peplum dress - XS | vintage light pink midi dress | straight skirt ruffle dress | 80s puff sleeve pink bodycon dress | keyhole dress
blush peplum dress – XS | vintage light pink midi dress | straight skirt ruffle dress | 80s puff sleeve pink bodycon dress | keyhole dress @£25.50 etsy.com

The necklines of modern dresses are longer and slimmer than the past models, offering a more contemporary appearance. These dresses are also much less transparent than their predecessors, giving a sleek and smart edge.


They are still very popular amongst the younger generation, particularly with girls who want to make a statement with a sexy neckline. However, there are still plenty of styles to choose from which aren’t too far removed from what they’ve traditionally portrayed.

Designer Desirables Nude Ribbed Peplum Dress
Designer Desirables Nude Ribbed Peplum Dress @£17.50 amazon.co.uk

For a modern take on this classic style, it’s a good idea to pair one of these dresses with jewellery. Black is still the most popular colour, although you’ll find many colour combinations, including white, brown, light blue and even green. For an edgier look, try vibrant pastels, such as purple, bright red or even orange.

Peplum Dress
Peplum Dress

For a very vintage feel, consider wearing a dress made from old lace or soft chiffon. There are many old lace dresses available that will fit the bill perfectly!

Forever Young Ladies Red Studded Mesh Peplum Dress Party Evening Wear Mini Dress
Forever Young Ladies Red Studded Mesh Peplum Dress Party Evening Wear Mini Dress @£14.99 amazon.co.uk

As mentioned before, the look of a peplum dress is very dependent on the skin tone of the person wearing it. In the past, the best you could hope for would be a pale, fair complexion – but these days, even women with darker complexions can wear this style without too much trouble.

80s peplum pink roses dress-Sz 10-Sm-Med
80s peplum pink roses dress-Sz 10-Sm-Med @£65.56 etsy.com

Many women have recently started to use black as their skin tone colour for a more edgy look. For example, if you’re used to wearing dark colours like black, it’s a good idea to give this one a shot. This way, you get to experiment with the different look colours without having to change your whole wardrobe!


To make the perfect match, it’s important to think about how the peplum dress fabric will appear against your skin tone. For instance, if you have a warm colour scheme, it’s best to opt for a deeper shade of plum to balance it out (this contrast is also applied if you’re wearing accessories such as jewellery, face paint or hairpieces).

Peplum Dress
Peplum Dress

Conversely, if you prefer a cool tone, then a lighter shade of peplum dress can make the most impact. If you have dark, medium and fair skin tones, you can look great in any number of different colour combinations. However, it’s always better to stay away from darker shades of peplum dress as they will emphasise the dark areas around your eyes more than the rest of your face.

Krisp BASICS Lace Neck Bodycon Peplum Dress Mesh Panel Pencil Stretch Frill
Krisp BASICS Lace Neck Bodycon Peplum Dress Mesh Panel Pencil Stretch Frill @£10.00 ebay.co.uk

Once you’ve decided what colour scheme suits you best, it’s time to start thinking about how a peplum dress will look on you. Obviously, it would be best if you were as confident as you can in the clothes you choose to wear, and it’s important to choose a flattering style that flatters your figure.

A dress that is too tight will emphasize the bustline, while one too loose will make you look shapeless! It’s also important to consider the effect a neckline will have. A high neck can accentuate a thin waist or flatter a broad back, while low collars can look flattering on all figures.

Lace Back Peplum Midi Dress
Lace Back Peplum Midi Dress @£5.00 krisp.co.uk

Finally, you’ll have to think about accessories. It’s perfectly acceptable to wear a simple bracelet, but if you’re going to wear a peplum dress, you’ll want to get something a little more interesting. The key is to pick something that compliments your dress and your look.

Peplum Dress
Peplum Dress

If you have the right accessories, you can easily take the dress from simply sleek and modern to elegant and chic. Don’t forget, and it’s important to choose the right style to match your own personal style.

SHEIN Plus Zip Back Surplice Neck Peplum Dress
SHEIN Plus Zip Back Surplice Neck Peplum Dress @£19.49 shein.co.uk

With so many styles available, there’s no reason that you can’t find the peplum dress that makes you feel fantastic.

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