The Cape Jacket Is Fall’s Most Elegant Outerwear Comeback
If you’re seeking some (sartorial) drama this fall, look no further than the cape jacket. Making a sweeping comeback, the heritage-style topper gets a modern rework—as seen on the fall/winter 2025 runways of Max Mara, Chanel, and Altuzarra.
While leather jackets and trench coats will forever be fall outerwear staples, the cape jacket is an ideal transitional-weather layer, as it seamlessly combines elegance and function thanks to its draped, overlay silhouette, which provides warmth and instantly reads polished.
This season’s iterations range from cropped styles that pair effortlessly with denim to luxurious wool or knit options that feel simultaneously cozy and glamorous. For a night out, choose a tailored, blazer-inspired cape to throw over a little black dress. If you’re all about downsizing layers as much as possible, a cape coat with a built-in scarf is a savvy choice for a snug, two-in-one look.
Ahead, shop six fall cape trends to add this season’s hero piece to your outerwear lineup.
Cropped
Modern and versatile, a cropped cape can be dressed up or down—styled with jeans and boots for the weekend or with trousers and pumps for the office. We even found a glamorous feather topper that’s perfect for upcoming holiday soirées.
A wool cape is the epitome of timeless elegance. Choose from essential black, neutral camel or brown, and classic houndstooth, among other equally chic options.
We love the convenience of an attached scarf for extra warmth (and consolidated pieces). Plus, it adds more draped drama for a chic, cold-weather look.
Two fall outerwear looks in one—the trench-style cape jacket offers a lightweight layer for rainy days and boasts the heritage coat’s signature details.
Build your next night-out ensemble around the standout tuxedo jacket cape, which will look perfect over a sleek dress or a bodysuit-and-trouser combo.
Swap a sweater for a cozy knit cape to add interest to a low-key, comfy outfit.
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