Product of the week: the cape

What is it:

The cape is an elegant alternative to a scarf and coat, and the styling options are almost endless. Whether you prefer a feminine or practical silhouette or a more classic piece, the cape adapts to the taste of every wearer. For the Spring/Summer 2022 season, numerous labels have embraced the look, with creations ranging from lightweight ponchos to dramatic ankle-length capes. Capes have a long and complex history dating back to 1088. At that time, capes held a prominent position in court society. What started as a simple, circular scarf tied around the neck evolved into a garment that required bespoke, high-quality sewing. Today the cape is less associated with royalty and historical figures, but it is still a very popular piece of clothing that is reinterpreted year after year

Why you want it:

As a garment to be worn during the transitional seasons, the cape is more versatile than some outerwear. It has established itself as a timeless classic that has a firm place in fashion. One of its key assets, which likely contributed to its longevity, is the range of shapes and silhouettes it comes in. This allows the cape to adapt its identity to a brand and eventually become the defining or signature piece of a collection. In this sense, the cape can make a practical statement without being too daring. In addition, its timeless nature makes it a real investment for customers. They know this garment will stay stylish, serve the purpose of warming and give them that certain something.

Where we’ve seen it before:

Capes were part of Valentino’s SS22 collection, where the house’s creative director Pierpaolo Piccioli tried to bring the brand’s traditional pieces back to life. They came in the form of billowing trains, tent-like blouses and signature creations embellished with glitter, all paying homage to the Italian house’s past. Louis Vuitton took inspiration from the 1920s for its 200th anniversary collection. A special form of the cape was shown in a silver model that fell over the shoulders and was combined with jeans that created a glam rock mood. More dramatic capes featured billowing trains, scalloped hems, and polka dots. Meanwhile, Andreas Kronthaler brought an entirely alternative approach to Vivienne Westwood’s collection, where it took the form of a doll-like rubber dress. Last but not least, at the Lanvin presentation, Naomi Campbell gave a stunning performance wearing a flowing chiffon cape that capped off the show dramatically.

How to style it:

Many fashion labels opted for theatrical performances, but the cape can also be worn as a no-fuss piece of clothing that can be incorporated into everyday wardrobe. Its open design allows it to show off its layering skills and it can add more flair to an outfit than regular coats can. A classic style, often in a checked pattern, pairs well with a leather skirt, cable-knit sweater and knee-high boots, while the oversized, trench-like capes go better with figure-hugging outfits. Mid-season, dramatic mid-calf styles can breathe new life into an everyday look of denim and boots. If the wearer is a bit braver, calf-length capes also go well with flowing midi dresses. They instantly transform the cape from a look suitable for the office to an evening outfit.

In short: the cape is timeless. It has survived hundreds of years, outlasted many fashion periods and trends, and continues to make statements today. With its expansive silhouettes and numerous variants, it is a garment that can define a collection and bring different brand identities to life, while at the same time appealing to a wide clientele.

This article was previously published on FashionUnited.uk. Translation and editing: Barbara Russ