Mirror, Mirror: Capes and capelets
Ponchos, cloaks, and wraps are toasty, and they totally pass the cozy test. But they don't say classy, dramatic, or romantic like a Sherlock Holmes-style cape.
Ponchos, cloaks, and wraps are toasty, and they totally pass the cozy test. But they don't say classy, dramatic, or romantic like a Sherlock Holmes-style cape.
The trendlet
The cape and her little sister, the capelet, are dressing up tuxedo-striped sweat pants and midi-skirts this fall. And designers like Max Azria are sewing them into sheaths to make a one-piece wonder: the cape dress.
Where's it come from?
Capes were the cold-weather apparel of choice from medieval times through the early 1900s. They started their frolic in and out of high fashion in the 1930s. In 1961, Jacqueline Kennedy wore a matching gown and cape to her husband's inaugural ball. Two decades later, capes (with shoulder pads, of course) were a part of the working woman's power wardrobe. Think Dynasty princesses Joan Collins and Diahann Carroll. After last winter's wallop, we now have an overwhelming urge to cocoon. That, combined with pop culture's obsession with all things vampire, superhero, fairy tale, and Scandal's Olivia Pope, has brought the cape back - hard.
Who's wearing it?
The woman whose style aspirations do not exceed her self-confidence. She's both a professional in a caped sheath, and an athlete, who may pair the outerwear with yoga pants. If she's fearless, she might pair a leather cape with a pair of ripped jeans. Spotted this year in capes: Gwen Stefani, Kate Hudson, and Lupita Nyong'o, who was unforgettable in a fiery-red, caped gown courtesy of Tom Ford at the 2014 Academy Awards.
Would Elizabeth wear it?
Well, it just so happens I bought a black cape with herringbone trim from Cracker Barrel - of all places - last fall. Talk about instant hit: People still ask me where I got it. I'm on the lookout for one with tuxedoesque details, like the Band of Outsiders cape pictured here.
Should you wear it?
I think so. Capes are for everyone, from toddlers to seniors. Wrap one around your shoulders, and you'll instantly go from looking nice to looking well-dressed.
- Elizabeth Wellington