Jenna Ortega just did what no one saw coming: she made the peplum cool again. Stepping onto the Marrakech Film Festival red carpet in a sleek, sculptural gown from Kyiv-based Bevza, Ortega didn’t just wear a dress—she sparked a style debate. The question isn’t whether peplums are back, but why their return matters now.
For many, the word ‘peplum’ conjures flashbacks to early 2010s fashion—think business-casual clubbing and an overdose of ruffles. But Ortega’s look, with its crisp lines and minimalist architectural flair, signals a dramatic evolution. This isn’t your old peplum. It’s grown up, refined, and (dare we say?) surprisingly relevant.
Why This Matters
- The peplum’s return marks a shift toward sophisticated femininity—a reaction to years of streetwear, oversized silhouettes, and genderless dressing.
- Fashion cycles are speeding up: what once took decades to revive is now back in a single generation. Peplums, previously a punchline, are now a status symbol for fashion insiders.
- Ortega’s choice isn’t just personal style—it’s a signal that red carpet trends still shape mainstream fashion, even in the hyper-casual post-pandemic era.
What Most People Miss
- Peplums are about more than nostalgia. Today’s versions lean on sharp tailoring and geometry, not flouncy excess. Brands like Bevza, Erdem, and Ashlyn Park are using peplums to play with proportion and power dressing.
- Celebrity endorsements matter: Kim Kardashian, Cynthia Erivo, and Ariana Grande have all sported modern peplums recently, often for moments demanding both authority and femininity.
- There’s a business angle: after years of “quiet luxury,” designers are hunting for distinctive silhouettes that photograph well and stand out on social media. The peplum is Instagram gold.
Key Takeaways
- Peplums are back, but they’re smarter and sleeker than ever.
- This trend is less about looking retro and more about strategic self-presentation—flattering, structured, and versatile.
- Expect to see peplums move from red carpets to high street collections within the year. If Ortega’s look is any indicator, the style world is ready.
How the Peplum Came (Back) to Power: A Quick Timeline
- 1947: Christian Dior’s ‘New Look’ popularizes the peplum as a symbol of post-war femininity.
- 2010s: Peplums become party staples, then quickly fall out of favor as minimalism takes over.
- 2025: Designers like Bevza, Erdem, and Ashlyn Park reimagine the peplum as chic, tailored, and modern.
- Now: Stars like Jenna Ortega embrace the look—signaling its mainstream revival.
Pros & Cons: The Peplum Renaissance
- Pros:
- Flatters diverse body types by highlighting the waist
- Adds interest to minimalist outfits
- Photogenic and red-carpet ready
- Cons:
- Can veer into costume territory if overdone
- Still divides opinion among style purists
The Bottom Line
The peplum isn’t just back—it’s evolved, and Jenna Ortega’s fashion-forward choice makes a compelling case for giving this polarizing silhouette another chance. If you’re looking for a statement piece that’s both bold and wearable, the new peplum is it. And if history is any guide, what happens on the red carpet doesn’t stay on the red carpet for long. Watch this space—your wardrobe might be next.