WEAR IT WELL PEPLUMS

Who would have thought a little flounce of fabric at the waist — an exaggerated ruffle, if you will — would have such longevity? Come spring, peplums will still feel on point ( thanks to designers like Stella McCartney, Thakoon and Alexander McQueen). But

SUBTLE SIREN

Office- appropriate and timeless, a dress is a classic way to sport a peplum. The tweedy feel of this version channels Joan Holloway in early seasons of Mad Men; in other words, it’s curve- hugging, flattering and is understatedly sexy.

Melanie Lyne, $ 225

ALL RUFFLED UP

If you only buy one ruffled piece this season, this should be it. Besides being that perfect shade of looks- good- on- everybody red, this top has a flattering “portrait” neckline ( meaning it works well with both collar necklaces and more simple jewelry), and a more subtle peplum that layers well over cigarette pants and pencil skirts.

Aritzia, $ 98

CLOSET STAPLE

You might be surprised that this wear- with- everything sleeveless top is from Topshop ( where’s the wacky colour and over- the- top embellishments?), but you’ll get over it as soon as you realize it’s the basic wardrobe addition you’ve been waiting ( your whole life) for. Think of it as a blank canvas peplum and wear it as you would a white T- shirt: with coloured jeans, printed skirts, and everything in between.

The Bay, $ 50

PERFECT PREPPY

As far as peplums go, this nautical- striped tee is about as preppy as it gets: for now, pair it with skinny blue jeans ( it’s kind of the perfect piece to wear to Saturday brunch on Main Street, no?); then, come summer, wear it with crisp white denim for a seriously Newport look.

J. Crew, $ 70

TREND ON TREND

Is rocking one trend at a time simply not enough for you? This animal print top is essentially the Anna Dello Russo of fashion trends. Ruffles! Prints! Do as Anna would and mix- and- match yours with a printed skirt from the same tonal family, or, for a fail- proof alternative, opt for basic black bottoms.

Jacob, $ 45

GEEK CHIC

A step away from the conservative end of the peplum scale, this sleeveless peplum dress is the ultimate day- to- dinner essential. Try layering it over a collared white blouse for a covered- up, geekchic look ( finish with a bun and horn- rimmed glasses), then whip off the layers and add a chunky statement necklace and sparkly heels for evening.

Winners, $ 39.99