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Trend How To: Peplum Dress

From , former About.com Guide

Peplum dresses, defined as, a "short overskirt or ruffle attached at the waistline of a dress or skirt," is very notable fall trend. Though pretty, this dress might be a bit daunting to wear.

1. Go Monochromatic

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If the peplum silhouette makes you shy, consider a dark monochromatic style for optimal fabulousness and flattery. Blake Lively chose an all-black ensemble and finished it off with a bright gold bangle.

2. Add Emphasis with Accessories

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Rihanna's cheery cherry red dress is accented with dark contrasting accessories, namely the showstopping leopard belt. Not only does it highlight her waist, but it adds serious style to a classic silhouette.

3. Play It Up with Patterns

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Liven up the peplum dress with a bright print. Leighton Meester's graphic black and white stripe dress creates a surprisingly flattering shape (the bold black sash certainly helps!), while the sky high red patent leather stilettos make the dress look even better.

4. Cinch Your Waist

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Because the peplum style puts a lot of emphasis on the hip area, a waist-cincher is a must. Diane Kruger gets it right with a sleek chain link belt. Although it's the same color as her dress, the hardware is shiny enough to change the silhouette. The coordinated studded peeptoe pumps are a lovely touch.

5. Do the Hand-On-Your-Hip Pose

Frazer Harrison/Getty Images
A peplum dress has quite a presence in pictures, and posing with hands on your hips like Estelle makes it even better. This sassy stance emphasizes the peplum ruffles, giving the dress a huge impact in snapshots.

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