Everyone’s been posting their 2016 photos, and while I’m all for that, because for me, I can easily say 2016 was one of the best years of my life, I’m taking it back a little further to the 2000s. NSYNC, Britney Spears, low-rise jeans, and peplum tops were the thing (oh the days), and 2000s queen Rachel McAdams just brought back one of those staples—but with a stylish update. 

Rachel McAdams.

Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for 20th Century Studios

McAdams was photographed at her Hollywood Walk of Fame Star Ceremony, where she was honored with her own, well, star (it’s about time!). For the occasion, the actress took an elegant approach, opting for a beige mid-length pencil skirt, which she paired with the most nostalgic top: a peplum top that brought me straight back to 2001.

Mango Off-the-Shoulder Peplum Top

Nordstrom

Gap Collared V-Neck Peplum Top

Gap

She paired said skirt-and-shirt combo with black kitten-heel mules to keep the elegance, opting for only a simple pair of diamond earrings for her accessories. But, let’s get back to the star of the show (McAdams, obviously), but in this case, I’m talking about her peplum top that leans way more Khaite than Limited Too, and that’s exactly what I foresee being huge come spring 2026. 

Peplum tops in 2026 are a bit more structured and elegant, with little frills and things aside from the cinching at the waist that then flows into some volume (from subtle to dramatic, though I’m all for the drama.) Pick the right style and, TBH, you look like a sculptural queen and your outfit will appear like a work of art. But aside from the elegance, the flare-hem detail is also incredibly flattering and acts as an optical illusion that makes your waist look so snatched. I love a two-for-one staple: chic and functional! 

So, shop some McAdams-inspired peplum tops below.

Get the Look:

Reformation Margot Asymmetric Peplum Knit Top
Shop now: $78; nordstrom.com

Aligne Peplum Detail Rib Zip Cardigan
Shop now: $130 (Originally $185); nordstrom.com

Helsa Maude Knit Top
Shop now: $228; revolve.com

By Anthropologie Pleated Peplum Short-Sleeve Top
Shop now: $108; anthropologie.com

Line & Dot Eton Peplum Jacket
Shop now: $126 (Originally $180); bloomingdales.com

H&M Bow-Detail Peplum Top
Shop now: $30; hm.com

High Sport Eric Strapless Wool-Blend Peplum Top
Shop now: $980; net-a-porter.com