This season look runway ready in the trend that looks to the past for inspiration. Draping is a great way to add sculptural interest to your ensemble, hide body flaws, or add volume. In the past, only used for eveningwear, draping is now used in amazing daywear pieces as well. In the context of this article, draping includes any tailoring that adds texture or architectural interest to a piece such as overlapping material, pleating, ruffles, and bows. Read on to find out more about this trend and how to wear it.

Tops. Add a great silk tank with draping detail at the collar to any work skirt to get an instant vintage look. The detail and material will give your ensemble that touch of femininity, professionalism, and formality that you were going for. If you have a smaller bust, this is a great choice for you. However, if you have a larger bust, you can still rock this trend if you go for a tank with a higher neckline.

Skirts. If you want to make your everyday pencil skirt a little more memorable, then grab one with a twist. Go for a jersey knit skirt with draping detail along the front panels of the skirt. An item like this will transition well from day to night without being too risqué for the office or too stiff for happy hour. If you are really bold, try it in a great color like royal blue or emerald green. This skirt works well on women who are top heavy to balance out their silhouette. If you have a bigger bottom, go for a skirt that has great detailing but in a more substantial fabric, such as wool or a heavy knit.

Dresses. A silk dress with sculptural tiers is my pick for this trend. If you have a small bust this is a great way to add volume. Wearing a dress that is more casual will pair well with lurex leggings and a more formal dress will look best in black with sheer silk stalkings.

Coats. If you want to take this trend to the next level, try it with outerwear. A cashmere, wool, or silk coat with pleating at the collar and outer panels will have all eyes on you when you walk past. Since the look is a little more formal, it is worn best in the evening. Do you want a coat that is also appropriate for daytime? Then go for one with draping at the back vents or detail around the exterior pockets.

Handbags. Since clutches are the handbag of the season for Fall 2008, a satin clutch with overlapping layers in a bow pattern on the front would work great for that night at the theatre. The extra texture would allow you to pack a lot in the clutch without it looking bulky. For everyday, go for a rich leather saddle bag with ruffle detailing on the front flap. This will look effortlessly chic with your jeans, skirts, and other casual wear.

Shoes. From a great pair of satin mules with bow detailing on the front to a striking pair of stiletto leather boots with pleating detail along the zipper, draping goes in a variety of directions when it comes to footwear. If you have a larger foot, try on a shoe or boot with extra detailing first to ensure it does not exaggerate the size of your foot.

So there you have it, draping, in all of its many forms, can take tailored basics from ordinary to extraordinary. Don't be afraid; try draping in all of its forms until you find what works best for you. As always, practice makes perfect, so follow this trend with some of the tips I provided and you can't go wrong. As always, good luck and happy shopping!