The era of peplum tops was a defining one for millennials, who embraced the flared-waist style as a go-to look for both work and play. However, as Gen Z deemed the style “cheugy,” many millennials, including myself, were ready to bid farewell to the once-beloved silhouette. Yet, fashion’s latest resurgence has seen a revival of the peplum, rebranded and refreshed by style icons like Sydney Sweeney, Simone Ashley, and Jenna Ortega.
While I’ve experimented with more controversial trends in the name of fashion journalism, facing my peplum PTSD was a challenge I needed to conquer in 2025. Opting for a modern twist on the trend, I paired a knitted black top with a pleated flared waist, steering clear of the flouncy trim that characterized the peplum tops of years past. The updated style focuses on sleekness and sophistication, with pleats and sculptural waists taking center stage.
One notable shift in styling peplums is seen in the color palette, moving away from color blocking to more streamlined monochrome looks with matching textures. Drawing inspiration from contemporary style icons, I paired my top with black trousers and a merlot-hued cropped bomber with padded shoulders, adding a touch of modernity to the ensemble.
Completing the outfit with color-coordinated accessories, including merlot slingbacks, statement earrings, and sunglasses, I felt surprisingly polished in a look that didn’t feel dated or cheugy. The peplum, once synonymous with early 2010s fashion, had been reborn in a more refined and grown-up manner, proving that even trends from the past can evolve into something fresh and stylish.
As the peplum makes a comeback in major retailers with a variety of fabrics, prints, and silhouettes, there’s a newfound excitement in experimenting with the Peplum 2.0. Whether opting for velvet, knits, or denim, there’s a plethora of options to explore, each offering a modern take on a classic trend. The peplum may have had its heyday, but its resurgence in 2025 proves that old favorites can find new life in the ever-evolving world of fashion.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.