Laws of Couture: How to a Wear Peplum Top

After several seasons of dominating the runway and fashion stores alike, there's really no way to ignore the peplum top this winter. While ridiculously flattering (seriously, they make you look like Jessica Rabbit—va va voom!), the logistics of actually wearing one can be daunting. Here are four super-cute ways to rock the trend.

With sleek trousers for work.

How chic is this look? Try out a peplum sweater like this one with a pair of sleek black trousers for the office. Both wide-leg and slim cropped pants would work, so wear whatever you feel best flatters your shape. I love this ultra-feminine combo, but if your office is less conservative, try more colorful options, like orange or cobalt (two hot colors this season) and printed options, too!

Harvey Faircloth

RED Valentino

Reiss

bluefly.com

debenhams.com

Sergio Rossi

Paired with distressed denim on the weekend.

Try wearing a fitted peplum blouse over distressed denim and pointy heels for a fresh take on the ubiquitous tank/jeans/heels combo every other girl will be sporting on a night out. This outfit is just as effortless as its done-to-death cousin, but will set you apart from the herd.

Sass + Bide

debenhams.com

Current/Elliott

Tory Burch

Alexander McQueen

Wear your peplum top with a pencil skirt.

Get the most bang for your buck by wearing your same peplum top with a fitted pencil skirt. A pencil skirt in a stretched crepe fabric with a hemline that falls right below the knee beautifully compliments the peplum shape. Play with different color and pattern combinations depending on what your plans are. If you're heading in to work, opt for a skirt in the same, or similar color as your blouse. Going out? Try a zany print or leather skirt. For date night, go with a sexy, fitted mini-skirt—but be sure you've got a good balance of bare arms and bare legs. Don't give too much away!

Dsquared

Boohoo.com

LOVER

Giuseppe Zanotti

Nina Milady

With tights and shorts for Sunday brunch.

How cute is this? I love how the fashion-forward top and chunky cashmere sweater make the rest of the outfit look instantly polished. I could see this working equally well in the warmer months with cutoffs, a cropped moto jacket and sandals. To be honest, there's really nothing you couldn't wear a peplum top with.