Entertainment

The blazer is getting a makeover. After years of embracing oversized, boxy silhouettes, fashion is shifting towards a more architectural aesthetic and the peplum blazer is leading the charge. This isn’t your mother’s peplum – or even the peplum of the early 2010s. The 2026 iteration is about creating a dramatic, flared silhouette that feels more like art than workwear, echoing the elegance of Dior’s post-war “New Gaze” for a modern audience.

The trend officially landed on the style radar when Elle Fanning debuted a stunning blazer and skirt suit set from Givenchy’s spring/summer 2026 collection at the 98th Oscars Nominees Luncheon in Beverly Hills. The look, designed by Creative Director Sarah Burton, featured strong shoulders and a draped peplum hem that flowed into a matching skirt with ruffles and a daringly high slit. Fanning’s appearance was particularly noteworthy as it marked her first nomination for a Best Supporting Actress Academy Award, recognizing her performance in Joachim Trier’s Sentimental Value.

This isn’t a simple revival of a past trend; it’s a reimagining. The peplum blazer of 2026 is about structure and drama, a departure from the more relaxed, oversized styles that have dominated recent years. It’s a statement piece designed to cinch the waist and create a visually striking silhouette. As New York Fashion Week’s fall 2026 shows demonstrated, the 2010s are back, but with a sophisticated update.

The Return of the Peplum: A 2026 Take

The resurgence of the peplum isn’t happening in isolation. NYFW 2026 also saw a revival of other millennial-era favorites, including skinny jeans and statement necklaces, signaling a broader embrace of 2010s fashion. However, the peplum blazer stands out as a particularly impactful trend, appearing on runways from Tory Burch to Proenza Schouler, each designer offering their own unique interpretation of the silhouette. According to E! Online, designers are turning these once-popular silhouettes into modern statements.

The key to the 2026 peplum blazer is its architectural quality. It’s about creating a defined waist and a dramatic flare, moving away from the boxy shapes that have been prevalent. This represents a blazer designed to be seen, a piece that adds a touch of artistry to any outfit. As Yahoo Shopping points out, the new silhouette feels more like art than workwear.

Shop the Trend: Peplum Blazers for 2026

If you’re looking to update your blazer collection, consider pieces that nip in at the natural waist and offer a dramatic flare below the belt. Here are a few options to get you started:

• Magda Butrym Draped Wool Blazer in Grey
• ALAÏA Fitted Jacket in Noir AlaÏa
• Post Meridiem Peplum Jacket
• Proenza Schouler Dasha Jacket in Compact Viscose
• Nina Ricci Peplum Hem Wool Blazer

The peplum blazer’s return signals a broader shift in fashion towards more defined silhouettes and a touch of drama. It’s a trend that offers a sophisticated alternative to the oversized styles of recent years, and Elle Fanning’s recent appearance proves it’s a look worth embracing. As designers continue to explore this revived silhouette, we can expect to see even more innovative interpretations of the peplum blazer throughout 2026 and beyond.

What remains to be seen is how this trend will evolve as the year progresses. Will we see peplum details incorporated into other garments, or will the blazer remain the focal point? One thing is certain: the peplum is back, and it’s making a statement.

What are your thoughts on the peplum blazer revival? Share your opinions in the comments below!

Fans of the iconic manga and anime series Death Note are in for a treat. A new production of DEATH NOTE: The Musical is set to grace the stage at London’s Barbican Centre this summer, bringing the thrilling story of Light Yagami and the power of the Death Note to a wider international audience. The production, a collaboration between Horipro and Trafalgar Theatre Productions, promises a reimagining of the popular musical for West End audiences.

This isn’t the first time the Death Note story has ventured beyond its Japanese origins. The musical initially premiered in Japan in 2015 and has seen several successful runs. Now, Horipro, the company behind the original production, is actively expanding its intellectual property (IP) internationally, with Death Note leading the charge. According to Horipro Group Chairman Yoshiki Hori, the strategy involves not just exporting Japanese creations but also building a global presence for these stories. This London production represents a significant step in that direction, aiming to introduce the captivating narrative to a new generation of theatregoers.

A Reimagined Production for a New Audience

The upcoming production at the Barbican Centre is described as a “reconstruction” of the West End version of DEATH NOTE: The Musical. Details regarding the cast and creative team are still emerging, but anticipation is building among fans eager to see how this adaptation will unfold. The Barbican Centre, known for its diverse programming and commitment to innovative theatre, provides a fitting venue for this high-stakes musical.

The original Japanese musical featured music and lyrics by Frank Wildhorn, and a book by Ivan Menchell. While details about the creative team for the London production haven’t been fully released, it’s expected to retain the core elements that made the original so compelling – a gripping storyline, dynamic musical numbers, and a thought-provoking exploration of justice and morality. The production aims to capture the essence of Tsugumi Ohba’s original manga and Tetsuya Nomura’s character designs, which have captivated audiences worldwide since the series’ debut in 2003.

Horipro’s Global Expansion Strategy

The decision to bring DEATH NOTE: The Musical to London is part of a broader strategy by Horipro to expand its IP globally. Yoshiki Hori, Chairman of the Horipro Group, emphasized the importance of taking Japanese-created content to the world stage. He noted that both Haruki Murakami’s works and Death Note are now being performed internationally, demonstrating the growing appeal of Japanese storytelling. This expansion isn’t just about exporting entertainment; it’s about building a sustainable global business around Japanese creative properties.

Horipro’s approach involves carefully selecting productions with international potential and partnering with established theatre companies like Trafalgar Theatre Productions to ensure successful launches in key markets. The company is actively seeking opportunities to adapt and present other Japanese works to audiences around the world, recognizing the increasing demand for diverse and engaging content.

The success of Death Note, both in its original manga and anime forms, and now as a musical, highlights the enduring power of its themes. The story’s exploration of morality, justice, and the consequences of power continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. The London production aims to tap into this existing fanbase while also attracting new viewers who are unfamiliar with the story.

Tickets for DEATH NOTE: The Musical at the Barbican Centre are expected to go on sale soon. Theatregoers and fans of the series are encouraged to stay tuned for further announcements regarding casting, performance dates, and ticket availability. The production promises to be a thrilling and visually stunning experience, bringing the dark and captivating world of Death Note to life on the London stage.

As Horipro continues to expand its global footprint, audiences can anticipate more exciting adaptations of beloved Japanese stories in the years to come. The London premiere of DEATH NOTE: The Musical marks a significant milestone in this journey, paving the way for a new era of international collaboration and cultural exchange. Maintain an eye on the Barbican Centre’s website for official updates and ticketing information, and prepare to enter a world where the line between justice and vengeance is blurred.

What are your thoughts on the upcoming musical? Share your excitement in the comments below!