Make a statement with a cape

BATMAN has one, and so does Sherlock Holmes. And Hollywood icons like Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn also wrapped themselves in capes. So this is not just part of a fancy-dress costume, it’s a way to make a big everyday fashion statement.

In Autumn 2019, it made a big comeback. International designers have rediscovered this easy-to-wear piece of fashion for themselves.

How do you wear a cape? As a classic and practical jacket replacement in periods of transition – from warmer-to-colder weather, and vice-versa.

“It can be casually thrown over your shoulders and is ideal to wear over a sweater,” says German fashion consultant Milena Georg.

But capes can also be worn in the office. “This is the way to wear a cape together with a classic business look or pantsuit in the everyday working setting,” says designer Ritchie Karkowski, “but they’re also an exciting addition to more sporty outfits.”

Which variants are available in the shops? The garment is typically A-shaped and sleeveless. Often it has a hood or a stand-up collar, and is worn with or without a clasp.

At the moment you can find short as well as almost floor-length variants, along with narrower and wider cuts.

In addition, many models are equipped with extras. “Elaborately designed buttons or eyelets can be added, as well as patterned details on the collar or hem,” Karkowski says.

Which cape should I buy?

Style consultant Maria Hans from Hamburg recommends that the length and width of the cape should be to your body size.

“Petite women should choose a short cape, but if you are a bit bolder, go for it and opt for a slim cut,” she explains.

Georg adds that because capes always visually add something, you can wear them with clothes with a narrow cut, allowing your body’s silhouette to remain recognisable.

The choice of fabric can add to the visual appeal: While wool fabrics or jersey, for example, ensure that the cape falls beautifully, a velvet model shimmers slightly, making it perfect for evening wear.

Experts agree that capes should be light, so they can be thrown on casually, and used as a sort of replacement shawl.

Which colours are trendy?

“Beige capes are a classic with which you can’t do anything wrong,” says Karkowski, “but what’s really striking is a cape in one of the hip signal colours, such as orange.” – dpa

– DPA – DPA The chequered pattern is still in style in women’s fashion, including for capes. A more formal outfit can be combined with a cape for a business setting.