Definition

Noun 1. A flared ruffle or short overskirt attached to the waistline of a garment: A peplum is a decorative fabric extension, often flared or gathered, that is sewn to the waist of a dress, jacket, or blouse, creating a distinct silhouette over the hips. 2. A garment worn by women in ancient Greece: Historically, a peplum refers to a piece of cloth worn in ancient Greece, caught at the shoulders and draped in folds down to the waist.

Usage Examples

• Modern Fashion Context:
  • The black dress featured a structured peplum that accentuated her waist.
  • She chose a blouse with a peplum to add volume to the outfit.
• Historical Context:
  • The statue depicts the goddess wearing a classic peplum.
  • In ancient art, the peplum was a common female garment.

Advanced Usage

• "Peplum top": A specific garment style where the peplum is the defining feature of the top.
  • A peplum top pairs well with slim-fit trousers.
• "Peplum waistline": Describes the style point where the peplum is attached.
  • The design emphasizes a peplum waistline.

Variants and Related Words

• Peplos (noun): The more precise term for the ancient Greek garment from which the modern "peplum" style takes its name.
  • The peplos was typically made from a single rectangle of woolen fabric.

Synonyms

• Overskirt: A separate skirt or a skirt-like layer worn over another skirt.
• Ruffle: A strip of fabric gathered or pleated on one edge, often used decoratively.
• Flounce: A wide strip of fabric attached by its top edge, similar to a deep ruffle, which can create a peplum effect.

Different Meanings

The word "peplum" has two distinct meanings: 1. Primary Modern Meaning: A fashion detail on contemporary women's clothing. 2. Historical/Archaeological Meaning: A specific type of ancient Greek garment.

Notes

• In modern fashion terminology, "peplum" almost exclusively refers to the decorative waist detail.
• The historical term is primarily used in academic contexts discussing classical dress.

Noun

1. a garment worn by women in ancient Greece; cloth caught at the shoulders and draped in folds to the waist
2. a flared ruffle attached to the waistline of a dress or jacket or blouse