So it’s not quite cold, yet. We need something to drape over our shoulders that doesn’t overheat, but that keeps us warm. And stylish of course.
Enter the cape.
You can’t turn your head for a second in this fashion game. For if you do, you’ll return and think you’ve woken up in some sort of sci fi movie. Or comic book expo. Or anywhere else capes are considered normal attire.
The cape is a distant cousin of the blazer, which itself is trying to impersonate a cape this season (such is the cape’s popularity), and has taken to being worn merely hung over the shoulders, as though simply shod over a coat hanger, arms left to droop miserably by its sides. Blame Sarah Jessica Parker for this one (and multitudes of other useless trends). Yes, yes, it does look polished. If your frame is as big as a teenager’s. Anything over a size 14 however and I’m certain most will assume that you’re afraid the blazer will rip under the arms if you dare wear it properly.
But the cape is different. Longer than a blazer, less body conscious than a traditional coat, it swooshes over your midsection and, depending on your height, finishes mid-thigh. It covers anything underneath it – bad outfit, last night’s cheesecake blowout, post-baby rolls – with enough fabric and movement that it continues to look fluid and flow about your person as though you are indeed, naturally stylish. And sophisticated. A bit like Grace Kelly. Come on, who hasn’t dreamed of looking like Grace Kelly at some point in their life and actually succeeded (besides Betty Draper)?
It can be worn with leggings, jeans, dresses or skirts. Not a baggy pant though. The legs need to be slimline in order for this look to truly work because the top half is so voluminous, and the key to fabulous dressing really is all about balance. That’s the genius thing about the cape. Its natural proportions are universally flattering.
Flick through the gallery to see what we mean.
