Just a quick post today showing last month’s $13 “fun” purchase in action. I love the flowy lines of capes and the functionality of classic trenches – so this combination piece was perfect for testing out the silhouette. This jacket is currently sold out online, but may still be in stores. See this post for details on how to search/order. 
While in store, I also tried on the knit Textured Swing Jacket (just $15.50 w/ code GETSTARTED for 30-35% off) but didn’t have time to snap photos. The texture is like a thick marled knit, and the black and white color scheme is chic and grown up. You can wear it easily over jeans/leather leggings or with red slacks or a black skirt & tights to work. This L(10) looked very shrunken on me, so if you are similarly-sized I’d suggest an XL(12). My only qualm was that a true swing jacket should have the option to only close the top part, versus a zipper going from the bottom up.
While previously browsing online, I was also intrigued by this simple twill cape (just $25 after coupon) – the pocketed design has the makings of a classic cold-weather piece spiced up with a punch of poppy red, and may look even better with a button change.
Twill texture (not lined) is less wrinkle-prone than the trench, and is light to medium weight. It was hard to find the perfect size because of the placement of the armholes. I liked the amount of cape fabric of the M(8) shown on the left, but it was obviously made for a shorter child because my arms could only hang t-Rex style out of the high holes. A L(10) fit better in that aspect, but had more fabric and longer length. This cape goes up to girls size XXL, so it may fit taller women as well.
I liked all three finds, but only left with the trench ( the other two were also full price at the time). If you’re a shorter woman interested in trying out the cape silhouette, the kids department is a great place to start. The cuts are smaller so petite frames are less overwhelmed, and the price points are better for an experimental item. Certain kids clothing will rarely work for a woman’s body (ie. more tailored items like blazers), but a cape is very forgiving.
Readers – Are you a fan of capes for fall? If so, how do you like to style them?
Do you know what are the measurements of this cape trench?
Amazing! Love this outfit! I have been thinking of possibly purchasing a cape but I always talked myself out of it because of the abundance of fabric. Thanks for suggesting the children's department. I've already been there for the cheaper version of Hunter boots. ;o)
I bought a black wool cape from the BCBGMaxazria outlet last year. I thought the trend was not going to stay on so after the season was over, I took out the 'cape' part. It was quite clever how they designed it. Now I have normal pea coat but I still have the cape piece so I can always so it back on 🙂
Hi Jean,
I have the J Crew Edie purse too, and mine looks very scratched up on the front. Do you have any tips on how to buff the leather so it looks new?
Thanks!
I'm on my second cape for the season and now I am totally loving yours…I wonder if that would work for my size…but it looks AMAZING on you!!
Love it…such a great find 🙂
XOXO
Hi I am wondering what shirt are you wearing under the trench? It looks like a blue Gingham print?
Loving the cape!
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