Kate Middleton Just Gave This Controversial Runway Trend Her Stamp of Approval

If, even after spotting peplum silhouettes in nearly every fall/winter 2023 collection throughout fashion month, you're still not convinced that they're worth giving a second chance to, the news I'm about to share with you is bound to put you over the edge. After all, I've yet to come across a fashion item worn by Kate Middleton that didn't go absolutely viral, and no matter how controversial peplum is, the hatred around it doesn't come close to balancing out the influential abilities of the Princess of Wales. 

If you haven't already guessed, Middleton was spotted earlier today wearing a peplum Erdem blazer with a matching printed midi skirt at the 2023 Commonwealth Day Service held at Westminster Abbey in London, giving the once "out" trend a supersized push toward the "in" pile. With the two-piece navy-and-blue set, she wore matching Gianvito Rossi pumps, an Emmy London clutch, and a pair of double-drop diamond-and-sapphire earrings that were once owned by Princess Diana. 

Though her entire look was chic and glamorous—like most she's worn—I can't help but continue to go back to her peplum top and, more so, what it means for the trend's fate that she chose it for the occasion. Below, check out Middleton's take on the peplum look vs. the ways it was styled on the runway this season. My guess? With her royal stamp of approval, peplum's comeback is going to be bigger and better than anyone could've predicted. 

On Kate Middleton: Erdem blazer and skirt; Gianvito Rossi Gianvito 105 Suede Pumps ($695); Emmy London Natasha Midnight Navy Clutch ($425)

Shop the peplum trend: 

Brandon Maxwell kept it classic with a strapless black peplum top and cuffed Bermuda-length denim shorts. 

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During London Fashion Week, Tove debuted this jaw-dropping peplum top that was covered in silky, draped fabric. 

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If you thought the peplum look had to be hyper-romantic, think again. At Alexander McQueen, Creative Director Sarah Burton used leather to add some much-needed edge to the silhouette. 

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Toga's F/W 23 collection was full of interesting approaches to peplum, starting with this puff-sleeve double-breasted blazer with a peplum waist. 

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Balmain Creative Director Olivier Rousteing went for the vintage approach this season, crafting peplum ensembles that would feel right at home in the 1950s. 

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Coming up: This Controversial Silhouette Is Preparing for a Surprisingly Chic Return