peplum

noun

pep·​lum ˈpe-pləm 

: a short section attached to the waistline of a blouse, jacket, or dress

peplumed

ˈpe-pləmd 

adjective

Illustration of peplum

Examples of peplum in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Her brand is characterized by voluminous designs featuring intricate handmade details, airy layers, and techniques such as quilting and smocking in dresses, sweeping skirts, and peplum tops. — Cortne Bonilla, Vogue, 5 Aug. 2026

Hudson looked radiant in a jade green Giorgio Armani Privé gown with a plunging strapless bustier, peplum waist, and column skirt. — Christina Perrier, InStyle, 4 Aug. 2026

While a classic button-down shirt is always timeless, a peplum top offers the same wearability with a waist-defining silhouette that instantly polishes any bottom they’re paired with. — Nicol Natale, PEOPLE, 1 Aug. 2026

At Dior, opulent volume played a central role, which was particularly evident in the fashion house’s signature Bar Jackets, whose sweeping peplum cuts clearly accentuated the hip area. — Kelly Niesen, Glamour, 24 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin, from Greek peplon peplos

First Known Use

1866, in the meaning defined above