The peplum trend was revived this season by numerous in-touch designers, taking these waist-flattering flourishes in new directions. We saw them represented on pants, in tiers, and combined with pleats. Some were draped softly, and some took a turn for the tough.   Looking back, the peplum recalls a variety of eras in fashion’s past, from Victorian finery to the prim and proper 1950’s. In fact, those of you who have your costume history books handy may wish to call them 'basques'.   Whether vintage-inspired or thoroughly modern, I’ve highlighted a few of my favorite current peplum looks below.       Givenchy kept peplums fresh with futuristic fabric and details.                       Jason Wu's edgy spring collection reflected a Christian Dior, late ‘40s and ‘50s inspiration.                       One of my new favorites, Cushnie et Ochs, shows a shiny, graphic version of this trend.                       Alexandre Herchovitch combines the blush and peplum trends.                       Of course, this detail is old hat at Alexander McQueen.                       Finally, softly folded fabric kept Preen's peplum dainty and sweet.                   (Photo credits, from top: 1. Yannis Vlamos/Gorunway.com, 2. Alessandro Garofalo/Gorunway.com, 3. Filippo Fior/Gorunway.com, 4. Alessandro Viero/Gorunway.com, 5. Marcus Tondo/Gorunway.com, 6. Alessandro Garofalo/Gorunway.com)