We love summer outfits, all easy dresses, cute sandals and crop tops… But for true fashion fans nothing beats autumn for the chance to layer up and get cosy. We’ve been browsing the best winter scarves and gloves to keep us warm, and while a coat is likely to be the most worn item in your wardrobe from now through to 2022, it’s a cape coat that will take your *lewks* to the next level.
Capes are having a fashion moment (they were a catwalk hero at Balenciaga, Valentino and Maxmara) but they’re also a bone fide perma-trend, meaning that if you get a good cape it will never go out of style. Cost per wear, sorted! Because capes are also about the silhouette, not the fabric or colour, you can find an option for every occasion – whether that’s out walking, heading for cocktails, or doing the 3:2 commute.
They’ll jazz up your loungewear if you’re just heading to the shops or top off a going out outfit with suitable finesse. Perhaps the only drawback is that they can be a little tricky to balance a shoulder bag with… But a tote or handheld version will work fine (and we’ll take any excuse to dream of a new handbag TBH.)
If battling the elements is your #1 priority when looking to invest in a cape for autumn, Arket’s oversized and padded version will keep you toasty warm. Zara have a great option that’s quilted and waterproof too. Pinko have a fab cape with fringing that will give you a satisfying swish and Burberry have reinvented their iconic intarsia check to create a super cosy cape.
If you are looking for a more budget-friendly cape H&M have a knitted wool version for £49.99 and there is Rains’ waterproof option for £89, which is on sale at ASOS. We love it when fashion gives us something practical and chic.
Scroll through to see our edit of the best women’s cape coats and jackets for Autumn 2021.
Read more from Glamour UK Fashion Director at large Alex Fullerton here or follow her on Instagram @alexandrafullerton