If you are looking to emphasize a narrow waist and create an hourglass figure, the “peplum” is your new best friend this season.  As seen at the Costume Institiute Gala, this overskirt accent at the waist is all over the red carpet.

 

Today’s modern peplum differs drastically from our last go-around with the look.  In the 1980s, peplum styles featured exagerrated shoulders – think “Dynasty” era Linda Evans and Joan Collins…

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1980s Vogue Pattern

 

Last week’s red carpet featured a more minimalist approach to the peplum, as worn by January Jones in Atelier Versace:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dimitrios Kamborris for Getty Images

 

Emma Roberts also opted for the mini-peplum, in a vibrant clementine-colored gown by Escada:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dimitrios Kamborris for Getty Images

 

Solange Knowles (right) looks effortlessly elegant in a smart lemon-yellow gown by Rachel Roy (left):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Joe Schildhorn BFAnyc.com

 

Eva Mendes is stunning in Prada:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Larry Busacca for Getty Images

 

Not all the peplums were so modest and simple.  Elizabeth Banks wears a futuristic design by Mary Katrantzou:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dimitrios Kamborris for Getty Images

 

Jessica Stam’s Dior combines structured with soft and hints at the padded shoulders of the 80s:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kavin Mazur for WireImage

 

Sofia Vergara’s Marchesa Gown features a cascading peplum:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dimitrios Kamborris for Getty Images

 

And last, Amy Pohler in an everything but the kitchen sink look by Fotini; the saving grace is the color, which softens the effect somewhat:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dimitrios Kamborris for Getty Images

 

We’re curious to see how this look goes over with our brides!