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Denim trends are constantly evolving, from skinny to straight, wide-leg to barrel – but there’s a new silhouette making waves this season: the peplum jeans, a viral trend dividing fashion fans.
Led by Los Angeles-based label Agolde, the style has quickly gone viral, thanks to its versatile mid-blue wash, relaxed leg and distinctive frilled waistband.
Known for creating cult denim that sparks new trends, it’s no surprise the brand is behind this unexpected shape.
Cut to a mid-rise, straight-leg silhouette, these peplum jeans put a fresh spin on classic denim with sculptural detailing at the hip.
They’re designed in a rich indigo wash and finished with a layered peplum overlay, adding subtle volume and movement without feeling over the top.
Having tried them on, what struck me most was the balance between structure and wearability.
Crafted from non-stretch regenerative cotton denim, the fabric feels surprisingly soft and lightweight, giving the jeans a tailored shape while remaining comfortable throughout the day.
I’ll admit, I approached the style with hesitation, fully expecting it not to suit me – but I was pleasantly surprised.
Senior Features Writer Rebekah Absalom tries the viral peplum jeans from Agolde
Far from feeling childlike, these jeans are flattering and easy to style, bringing a directional edge to even the simplest outfits.
Styled with an M&S black scoop neck top and FitFlop Mary Janes, they take on a polished, put-together feel.
For reference, I’m just under 5’8′ and found they’re long enough to wear with flats or heels, with a 31′ inseam, and they run true to size.
The denim feels luxurious, while the peplum detail adds just the right amount of interest – making the overall look feel effortless, modern and undeniably chic.
It’s little surprise they’re selling out fast, with no stock currently left on the brand’s website.
I have managed to track down a handful of sizes still available at Net-A-Porter, but I’d recommend acting quickly if you’re tempted.
Many high street brands have followed suit with their own interpretations of peplum denim.
I scoured the stores to find the best frilled styles and double-denim looks tapping into the trend – here are my thoughts.
Asos
These Asos Luxe jeans offer a more casual take on the designer style, with a pared-back design, featuring a clean peplum waist and relaxed silhouette.
Cut from a lighter blue, non-stretch denim, they sit high on the waist and deliver a similarly effortless feel, making them an easy everyday option at a fraction of the price.
M&S
I couldn’t help but stop and admire this charming peplum jacket when I spotted it in the M&S store on my way into the Daily Mail offices.
It’s just as flattering on, with a soft, feminine shape that would work with everything from dresses to tailored trousers.
I styled it with wide-leg jeans in a matching indigo wash to tap into the trend – and was rather pleased with how well the look came together.
Very
As soon as I slipped into Very’s co-ord, I was instantly sold. The denim is incredibly soft and comfortable, making it a pleasure to wear.
The outfit feels effortlessly breezy and chic, without trying too hard.
Finished in a mid-blue hue, it’s the perfect throw-on outfit for spring and summer – just add sandals and sunglasses.
H&M
A light blue wash makes H&M’s co-ord ideal for summer and a versatile take on denim dressing.
Cut from rigid cotton denim, the blouse incorporates a front zip, long tapered sleeves and a softly flared peplum created by inverted box pleats at the waist.
The coordinating jeans sit slightly lower on the waist with a comfortable, elasticated waistband and a curved leg that tapers to the hem.
This set works well overall – the peplum detail adds structure to the top, while the barrel jeans feel on-trend.
Seventy + Mochi
I recently discovered this gorgeous UK-based sustainable brand, which specialises in eco-friendly, ‘consciously kind’ denim made from organic and recycled materials.
Focused on timeless, long-lasting pieces, the label is known for its ethical approach alongside distinctive patchwork detailing and unique fits.
This design ethos was evident in the Zoe jacket, with its seam detailing, ring-pull zip and split peplum hem.
The contrast between the structured, fitted jacket and the voluminous Bay jeans feels particularly effective, with their wide-leg silhouette designed to puddle over shoes.
River Island
River Island offers a more glamorous take on the trend with its sleeveless wrap peplum top, making the perfect partner to jeans.
I teamed it with the pull-on palazzo trousers, cut with an elongated, flared leg that works equally well with flats or heels. However, matching trousers have since launched online.
The outfit transitions easily from day to night with minimal effort.
Gap
This Gap peplum denim jacket taps into the playful side of the trend while still being really flattering.
The fitted shape cinches at the waist before flaring into a soft peplum hem, a perfect match for the brand’s cropped kick flare jeans.
The denim has a low-stretch, structured feel, so it holds its shape well, but it does come up quite snug, so I’d recommend sizing up for a more comfortable fit.