Fashion lingo: what is peplum anyway?
24.2.2023
Translation: Katherine Martin
If you fancy putting some swing in your hips, this trend, which originated in ancient Greece, is just the thing for you.
If you’re over 18, you’ll be no stranger to this trend (as is the case for so many of today’s fashions). I’m talking about peplum, which has its origins in ancient Greece. The term «πέπλος» or peplus describes what was originally an ankle-length tunic worn by women, gathered together in the middle of the body with a ribbon.
Source: Pinterest pin/174514554303544215
Sometime after 800 BC, the garment lost its appeal and fell into obscurity. That is, until the shapely women of ancient Greece gave Christian Dior a flash of inspiration in the 1940s. Using over-the-hip flounces, also called peplums, the French designer brought the infamous hourglass silhouette into being.
Every few decades since, the fashion world gushes over garments boasting the flouncy detail, only to deride them as out again a short while later. That’s what happened in the 1980s and the 2010s. And there’s no reason to banish hourglass silhouettes to the back of the wardrobe now. After all, it was only a matter of time before ever-persistent peplum would reboot its image, careering its way back from «out» to «in».
What can I say? The time has come – and the déjà vu is sublime. From Christian Dior (like in the good old days) to Givenchy, from model Irina Shayk to actress Florence Pugh, the flared, playful addition is back – and enjoying huge popularity.
Source: Spotlight
Source: Instagram @robertwun
Peplum pieces to get you on trend:
In the «Fashion lingo» series, I try to shed light on the dark that is language in the fashion industry. If you occasionally end up lost in translation, I’m sure I can help – drop me a line in the comments.
Header image: Spotlight
Laura Scholz
Senior Editor
Laura.Scholz@digitecgalaxus.chAlways in the mood for good hits, great trips and clinking drinks.
Fashion
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