Peplum is a short addition sewn onto a bodice of a dress or jacket. The peplum is pleated or gathered onto the hem of the bodice. Also known as a basque (definition from dictionary of fashion and fashion designers)
The peplum has been seen more and more on dresses recently and picked up on the red carpet ( Michelle Williams’ Vuitton Oscar dress could be described as a peplum cut ). One of the designers who seems quite fond of this cut is Jason Wu. But why is this trend so popular ?
The retro style trend could be a cause of this. Mad Men is celebrated for their costumes and vintage style looks are visible in more and more shops. Banana Republic is having a second Mad Men collection made by costume designer Janie Bryant. By bringing vintage looking clothes back into fashion, maybe a modern twist is wanted, thus the peplum. My favourite out of these basques is the robin egg one on the right. The skirt is discreet but with a special embellishment and the outfit altogether matches perfectly!
