What’s Trending With Tara: The Cape Coat

New York Fashion week came by storm this year. Freezing temperatures, slippery sidewalks and on-and-off again flurries made “dressing to impress” a bit of a challenge for fashionistas in the Big Apple. After experimenting in my closet, I am convinced that inclement weather does not mean you need to let your fashion game drop like the temperatures! I was reacquainted with all of the wearable warm winter staples of the season like thigh high boots and the wide array of statement coat options. However, the one cold weather standout during this past week has to be the cape, which held strong as a transition piece from fall to spring.

Despite the preconceived notion that capes are not practical for cold winter months, I found it to be the exact opposite. Not only did it offer my look a fresh alternative to my furry toppers with an added girl-on-the-go vibe, but also the bellowing nature of the outerwear really opened up the option to play with layers. Layering outerwear is a trick of the fashion-savvy and totally on trend—not to mention particularly useful during these cold transitional months. This season, knits and turtlenecks paired with capes are a match made in heaven. If you want to really amp up your style game, layer the cape with a leather moto jacket or wear a wool blazer underneath. When rocking a second jacket under your cape, you have the option to keep it on if the venue is chilly or ditch it and showcase some curves depending on how hot you feel! Or if the leather moto jacket isn’t right for you, try long leather gloves to finish off your cape with some added polish.

When looking for ideas on how to style a winter cape coat, don’t be afraid to play up their retro features. You can pair it with some flare jeans for a '70s inspired feel, or try giving your look a little nod to mod by pairing it with a mini-skirt and cozy tights. Another option is to keep your look sleek and minimalist with modern tailoring, like a strong shoulder and a formfitting monochromatic underlay. Whatever look fits your fancy, throw on a hat, grab a clutch or top handle purse and you have yourself a practical outfit with a little added superhero kapow!

Photo Credit: Mangue Banzima

http://www.quistyle.com

@quistyle

Check out some of my favorite Instagram looks this week for some more cape-spiration.

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