After making a strong debut in the fall collections of contemporary brands such as Band of Outsiders, Phillip Lim, Dolce & Gabbana and Salvatore Ferragamo, capes are a perfect transitional item for fall. But before hitting the streets with your cape, consider these helpful hints.
NEUTRAL COLORS
Keep in mind that although we all love Superman, we don’t necessarily want to style our wardrobe after his iconic red cape. Stick to neutral colors like camel, navy and gray. Vivid colors can often make the look seem childish whereas classic hues keep it clean and chic.
LUXE FABRICS
Lush fabric is another way to keep capes from looking like a costume. From tweed mixed with leather accents to wool paired with soft silk, capes get a dose of sophistication in these luxurious materials.
FLATTERING SHAPES
Even with the perfect cape, it is important to remember what looks good on your body. For those who are petite, opt for a cropped caplet to ensure the cape does not look like a Snuggie. As for the taller girls, don’t shy away from length and volume to create a look that is dramatic.
SLIM BOTTOMS
A full top needs to be balanced with a slim bottom. The contrast keeps the ensemble from being too overwhelming. Pair the look with skinny jeans, slim trousers, basic leggings or even a pencil skirt to achieve an outfit that is as daring as Superman himself.
Look for this trend at Urban Outfitters and Zara, which provide a range of inexpensive options. Feeling lucky? Digging through some thrift stores such as Buffalo Exchange or Beacon’s Closet can yield unique, vintage finds.
A version of this article appeared in the Wednesday, Oct. 10 print edition. Marina Zheng is a contributing writer. Email her at [email protected].
