Cape chic: Elevate your everyday wardrobe with elegant outerwear
What's the story
While capes are dominating the runways lately, these beloved outerwear garments, have existed for centuries and have been adorned by both men and women. Capes are versatile garments designed to drape over the shoulders and fasten at the neck. Being sleeveless, they allow freedom of movement and can serve various purposes, from fashion statements to practical outerwear, providing warmth and protection.
History
Evolution of the cape since the 1900s
Since the 1900s, fashion designers have been reimagining capes for high fashion and symbolism. Hollywood contributed to the cape's chic image with iconic styles, like Vivien Leigh's red velvet cape in Waterloo Bridge (1940), Anita Ekberg's fur-trimmed piece in La Dolce Vita (1960), Marilyn Monroe's animal-print cape in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (1953), and more recently, Ramona Young's pink velvet Galadriel cape in Blockers (2018).
Information
From function to fashion
Capes have evolved significantly from their early origins, transitioning from functional garments to versatile fashion statements. They have served as protective outerwear, ceremonial robes, and now stylish accessories. While often associated with high fashion, capes can also be seamlessly integrated into your everyday wardrobe.
Dresses
Cape dresses
The allure of caped dresses is a familiar sight, with celebrities frequently donning glamorous gowns on the red carpet. Their presence reinforces the notion that capes aren't exclusive to superheroes; they also exude stunning elegance. A-listers like Brie Larson, Natalie Portman, Deepika Padukone, Sonam Kapoor, and Janhvi Kapoor have consistently showcased the magnificence of caped ensembles in fashion.
Tops
Cape tops and blouses
Traditional wear in India has undergone some significant changes over the past few years, and capes have found their way into saree blouses upgrading the simple saree look into a more royal appearance. Cape tops on the other hand can come in the form of flared shirts. Consider incorporating such tops into your wardrobe to upgrade your daily wear.
Coats
Caped coats
Caped coats come in various styles, offering elegance and practicality to your attire. They make a striking outerwear fashion statement. Caped coats provide the full cape effect within a coat, elevating cold-weather ensembles. They combine traditional coat features with a draped cape, varying in length, style, and materials, blending fashion and functionality. If you love winter, a cape coat is a wardrobe essential.
Blazers
Cape blazers
The cape blazer can be a versatile addition to your wardrobe, suitable for both the workplace and post-work engagements. It's the ideal choice for those seeking a polished and stylish appearance. Prominent figures, such as US politician Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, have embraced this boss lady look, donning a white cape blazer during the 2019 State of the Union, exuding a regal and commanding presence.
Shawls
Cape shawls
Cape shawls, a timeless style, are draped over the shoulders and secured at the neck, featuring arm openings for ease of movement. They add a touch of high fashion and take your outfit to the next level. Consider throwing on this piece of perfection over your sarees or lehengas when attending weddings or other classy events during the winter months.