What exactly is peplum? Whether delicate lace or rigid denim, peplum is material added to the waist that creates a short, skirted look on jackets, dresses, etc. This über feminine look was seen all over the Fall 2009 runways.

During the Victorian & Edwardian eras, the dainty peplum accented ballgowns, voluminous skirts and jackets. Peplum reemerged during the 20th century, specifically in the 40s & 80s. As with any trend of the 80s, the peplum look was exaggerated & sometimes larger than life! Over a 100yr period, huge skirts with flounce, became narrower suits & fitted dresses that nipped at the waist & flared with peplum.

Black Lace-Neck Peplum Knit Dress, $54 (Torrid); Hawaiian Cactus Cotton Lycra Peplum Dress, $275 (Betsey Johnson); Glamour Strapless Dress, $24.80 (Forever21); Knitted Peplum Jacket, $100 (Topshop); Parker Peplum Top, $172 (Luv Charlie)
Peplum Stripe Skirt, $65 (Topshop); Ecote Peplum Tulip Skirt, $48 (Urban Outfitters); Satin Peplum Tube Dress, $68 (Arden B.); B.Darlin Woven Peplum Dress, $59 (Dillards)