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Courtesy of Markarian
From necklines to hemlines, there are plenty of different aspects to a dress that can show off your personal style. One silhouette that is often overlooked, though, is the peplum. A peplum dress is a stunning option for brides looking for a modern and sophisticated detail to incorporate into their bridal look. You can opt for silhouettes that accentuate certain areas of the body, or choose a gown that features an architectural and avant-garde peplum element.
What Is Peplum?
A peplum is a gathered piece of fabric that flares out from the hip or waistline of a dress.
Peplum dresses were first made famous by Christian Dior in the 1940s; and today, the style is a flattering choice that many designers have adapted into their own collections—especially in the world of bridal.
If you think a peplum wedding gown is for you, keep scrolling ahead. We’ve put together 21 of our favorite peplum dresses for every budget and bridal style.
For the Sophisticated Bride: Black Halo Lena Peplum Gown
Size Range: 0-12 | Length: Floor-length | Material: Rayon
Opt for a timeless and sophisticated look with this peplum-style gown from Black Halo. It features a subtle side slit and a strapless square neckline.
For the Fashion-Forward Bride: Chiara Boni La Petite Robe Morny Rosette Peplum Gown
Size Range: 0-16 | Length: Floor-length | Material: Polyamide, elastane
This stylish and unique peplum gown stands out with a three-dimensional structured rose detail along the waistline.
Best Lace: Houghton Maeve Gown
Size Range: 0-30 | Length: Ankle-length | Material: Guipure French lace
For a chic and elegant bridal look, consider this French lace gown from Houghton. The asymmetrical peplum is detachable for those who may want to switch up their look throughout the festivities.
Best Mini: Houghton Paris Mini Dress
Size Range: 0-30 | Length: Mini | Material: Guipure French lace
Looking for a second (or even third) look to change into on the big day? We love this mini dress that features a lace bustier.
Best Jumpsuit: Chiara Boni La Petite Robe Kinsco Ruffled Peplum Jumpsuit
Size Range: 0-14 | Length: Ankle-length | Material: Polyamide, elastane
Switch things up with this peplum jumpsuit from Chiara Boni. The sleeveless top beautifully cascades into a ruffled peplum.
For the Modern Bride: Roland Mouret Chora Hammered Silk-Satin Peplum Maxi Dress
Size Range: UK 6-14 | Length: Ankle-length | Material: Silk-satin
For a nontraditional option, we love this modern peplum maxi dress. The sky blue color is a great alternative to classic bridal white.
For a Backyard Wedding: Lug Von Siga Stone Amara Dress
Size Range: 34-42 | Length: Midi | Material: Cotton
This laid-back and stylish eyelet midi is perfect for backyard nuptials. The bow detail in the back adds a sweet and romantic touch.
Best Blush Option: Maticevski Situational Strapless Draped Peplum Gown
Size Range: 2-12 | Length: Midi | Material: Silk
This modern blush gown from Maticevski features a sweeping train that adds a touch of drama to the fashion-forward look.
Most Unconventional: Divalukky Court Civil Wedding Structured Embellished Dress
Size Range: XS-3XL | Length: Midi | Material: N/A
This structured peplum gown is truly a one-of-a-kind look that is sure to make a statement. The star-like crystal embellishment adds some glam to the avant-garde dress.
For the Rehearsal Dinner: Likely Leigh Lace Peplum Dress
Size Range: 0-10 | Length: Midi | Material: Lace
If you’re on the hunt for a perfect summer rehearsal dinner dress, we’ve got you covered. This floral lace midi is both romantic and timeless.
Most Ethereal: Tarik Ediz Strapless Straight Neck Column Dress
Size Range: 0-18 | Length: Floor-length | Material: Organza
With a ruched bodice and unique peplum detailing along the waistline, this gown is hard not to fall for. Style with loose waves and a glowy makeup look.
Best Floral Details: Divalukky Janelle Dress
Size Range: 2-16 | Length: Midi | Material: N/A
This one-of-a-kind dress features eye-catching floral embroidery and a structured peplum waistline.
For a Summer Wedding: Markarian Perpetua White Eyelet Gown
Size Range: 0-14 | Length: Floor-length | Material: Eyelet
For an outdoor summer wedding, we suggest this eyelet peplum gown from Markarian. We especially love the detachable blue silk belt which is the perfect something blue to add to your bridal look.
For the Classic Bride: Amsale Demi Gown
Size Range: Contact brand | Length: Floor-length | Material: Crepe
Classic brides, take note of this timeless and subtle peplum gown from Amsale’s Archive collection. The sheer back is elegantly lined with buttons down the middle.
Best Embellishments: Safiyaa Ivory Crystal-Embellished Stretch-Crepe Peplum Dress
Size Range: FR 38-46 | Length: Midi | Material: Stretch-crepe
This polished midi dress from Safiyaa features crystal embellishments all along the waistline, which leads into a layered peplum.
Best Nontraditional: Hermione De Paula Kado Look 14
Size Range: Contact brand | Length: Floor-length | Material: Crepe
Skip tradition in this black, green, and floral gown that’s the perfect balance of edgy and elegant. Our favorite part? The oversized pink flower detailing along the waistline.
Best Strapless: Hermione De Paula Virere Look 9
Size Range: Contact brand | Length: Floor-length | Material: Tulle, Lace
This strapless, sweetheart neckline gown from Hermione De Paula features a floral bodice that transforms into a delicate lace skirt.
Best Plunging Neckline: Hermione De Paula Virere Look 20
Size Range: Contact brand | Length: Floor-length | Material: Tulle, Lace
What’s more romantic than a gown that combines floral, lace, and tulle? Style this modern look with a pair of lace opera gloves.
Best Top and Trousers: Lela Rose The Tuscany
Size Range: Contact brand | Length: Ankle-length | Material: Swiss dot jacquard
We cannot get enough of this peplum top and trouser combination. Whether it’s a courthouse wedding or a comfortable second look, this outfit is one to keep on your radar.
Best Sleeves: Vera Wang Beartrice Gown
Size Range: Contact brand | Length: Floor-length | Material: Italian silk crepe
This Vera Wang gown is truly a show-stopping number. From the exaggerated blouson sleeves to the defined peplum waistline, this dress is certainly an unforgettable look.
Most Customizable: InnamorataBridal Mermaid Wedding Dress
Size Range: Custom sizing | Length: Floor-length | Material: Crepe, chiffon
If you are looking to create your very own bridal look, this Etsy shop allows brides to completely customize aspects of this peplum dress.
What to Look for in a Peplum Wedding Dress
When shopping for a peplum wedding dress, pay attention to the different styles to find a look that works best for you. Asymmetrical peplums are a great option if you are looking to put a modern twist on a classic silhouette. Structured peplums are also a contemporary choice that pairs well with black-tie weddings. If you’re looking for a more laid-back and subtle bridal look, consider a shorter peplum style.
Why Trust Brides
Contributing writer Melony Forcier is a recent graduate starting her career path in beauty and fashion journalism. Before graduating, she interned with both Boston Magazine and Foundation PR. Additionally, she served as a fashion editor for Boston University’s lifestyle magazine, The Buzz.