Several new fashion trends are surfacing this summer, and interestingly enough they all begin the letter P – pleats, peplums and palazzos. When I think of peplums, I think of polyester dresses I wore to Sunday School in the seventies. When I think of pleats, I think of Catholic school uniforms. But when I think of palazzos, I think of my mother and chiffon and french twists. I remember an era when women weren’t afraid of frosted lipstick, updo hairstyles with big gold loop earrings, and being called pretty.
As for pleats, they are resurfacing in cute, tailored dresses, many in short lengths. You will also spot quite a few of them in flowing chiffon, especially by trendy brands such as BCBG. They make me want to throw a garden party, just so I can wear one while serving canapes from a vintage metal tray and sipping a dirty martini.
As a child of the seventies, I didn’t think I could warm up to peplums again, as I tend to classify them alongside shoulder pads. However, when I discovered this kick-ass leather peplum bustier, I began to see this fashion trend in a different light.
Palazzo pants are a different story. I’m thrilled they are re-emerging! I plan to make some in a tiny Boho floral cotton instead of lemon yellow chiffon I remember my mother wearing, but I only hope I’ll look as glamorous wearing them as she did.
I think I have my plan for some summer sewing, folks, as well as a few parties on the patio. Now where’s that fondue pot of mine?
