Super Style

It is still too warm in most places to even imagine wearing any kind of outerwear right now. But the early bird gets the worm (and the best outerwear), so I suggest you start shopping now. One of the hot outerwear trends for fall 2012 is the cape, not to be confused with a poncho.

You may think cape and poncho can be interchanged and used for each other, but there is a difference. I am probably guilty of using the wrong word more times than I can count. If you’re so inclined, Wikipedia gives an interesting definition for capes and one for ponchos. An easy way to differentiate between the two is to remember that a poncho has an opening for the head, but not always specifically for the arms.

Capes are coming down the runway for fall, but by all means feel free to insert a poncho and go about your merry way. They do have a similar look. Capes have come and go since the Victorian era, so they can easily be considered part of the retro love affair the fashion world has been having all year long. They aren’t highly unusual, and people wear them when they aren’t a top trend, but overcoats and jackets have become more common for outerwear. 

I can’t decide if I will be working this trend this year or not. But a tempting thought is all of the cool gloves and other accessories you can show off when you wear a cape. There are an overwhelming amount of choices for fabrications, colors, and style. The options for lengths run from just below the shoulders, above and below the knee, and capes that practically sweep the floor. As far as shapes go, there are bell shapes, A-lines, or ones with bat-like folds that wrap and drape around your body.

If you can afford it, opt for one of this season’s capes with decorative embellishments like gold brocade, fur, or tassels Since this garment was once worn to cover evening wear, you can always wear it for special occasions and stepping out on the town when things cool off a bit.