Primary links
The cape was popular last season and is still around for this autumn/winter. A grown up version of the poncho (remember when they were all the rage?), a cape should have structure and flatter the shape.
Capes were seen on the catwalk at Lanvin, Anna Sui and Diane von Furstenburg. Lanvin showed classic, unembellished capes in nude and black, whilst Ana Sui showed heavily printed capes in wine gum shades. Capes are historical items of clothing, and have their roots in religion, but right now they are definitely having a fashion moment.
You do however, have to be careful how you wear a cape. They can be very useful for this time of year as a comfortable, cosy cover-up. Lots of different styles are in the shops: military, tribal, belted, fringed, hooded and buckled. Athletic shapes can really work the cape with flair. Team with skinny jeans or a print dress or do the well-bred rural riding hood with a long skirt and flat boots. Pear shapes need a short cape with a belted waist, and busty girls should go for a cape/coat combo with sleeves to avoid looking like a tent.
The modern way to wear a cape is cinched in with a skinny belt. Play with pattern like at Anna Sui, tribal prints are particularly key for this season but could date quickly. Decide if you want a cape coat, which needs to be thick and shower resistant, or more of a knitted cape for warmth around the house. It is best that the length of the cape stops a few inches above your knees, and wear with skinny jeans or trousers to balance out the silhouette.
Topshop, Asos, Next and River Island all have capes in store this season. For a unique take on the look, check out this leather cape by Vero Moda, £190.
