Outerwear is an essential element of any wardrobe this season, but the cape is the superhero! Capes have become one of the coolest cover ups on catwalk and on the high street. This classic, boho chic or edgy (and always comfy) winter wear trend had designers showing styles in rich colors, interesting graphics and modern fabrics. A favorite among us fashion folks, the cape is one chic piece that can do wonders for the simplest outfit, transforming a casual look into an altogether cooler outfit in seconds. Whether you prefer a timeless silhouette or one that features a contemporary twist, the cape is the ideal topper for cooler temps. Add these must-have capes to your winter outerwear collection.
Solid shades are not only timeless, but effortlessly chic. This is especially true when it comes to outerwear, and the cape is no exception. Shades range from soft greys and beiges to rosy pinks and vivid reds.
On the retail end- Zara, Topshop and H&M (among others) seems to agree, including a selection of coveted capes among their new winter wardrobe collections.
On the designer front, Talitha, Tibi and Temperley have all championed the trend, from the ultra-cosy, to the cool embroidered boho versions. And as pricey as they may seem, the investment potential here is huge.
And if you’re wondering why this is becoming such a rave- the cape is the perfect piece
for layering in winter with all that knitwear. For the office a chic black cropped
version will add instant cool points to your classic white shirt and navy cropped
trouser combo. And for the slightly warmer months, a cape worn over a basic tee or even
with jeans and trainers can look dreamy and cool.
Fashion’s recent obsession with all things suede extends into the season’s cape trend
made of this popular material. Undoubtedly, Capes are the new jackets. After last year’s
boom in blanket ponchos, thanks to Christopher Bailey’s coveted monogrammed Burberry
Prorsum piece that sparked a movement among the fashion set, traditional jackets have
been given the cold shoulder. Designers have dialed up the drama on the winter wardrobe
and their shows during Paris Fashion Week, eschewing jackets in favor for cool capes in
varying silhouettes, prints, and textiles.
Designer Alber Elbaz showcased the Lanvin show with a textured black shift, adding a higher degree of flair with a feathery topper, a theatrical hooded black cape, complete with black leather opera-length gloves and knee-high boots. At Chloe, designer Clare Waight Keller turned to the ’70s for inspiration with a folksy line-up that she toughened up with military-inspired coats and capes . And at Vionnet, fluffy cropped capes served as the perfect companion to evening wear with prints that swirled from the hooded piece to the gown.
The winter runways for outerwear saw designer options that are not so ordinary, graphic designs and eye-catching accents are the way to go. With geometric prints and dazzling adornments, these capes will certainly make fashion spotting heads turn.
