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Indulging in your Wonder Woman fantasy with a polyester red cape is only suitable for Halloween. But a stylish cape-coat in a neutral color paired with the right outfit is uber-sophisticated for fall or winter. Caplets and cape-coats look great on a variety of sizes and shapes, and are available in different lengths and styles. Pulling off the cape look without feeling cheesy -- you want to feel like a superhero, but not actually look like one -- is simply about choosing the right style and pairing it with appropriate pieces for your body type.
Petite Frame
If you have a smaller frame, you can be a little more daring with your cape style. A wide round cape or voluminous knit cape looks dashing with high-waisted shorts and a pair of opaque tights for skinnier legs. The cape should be long enough to basically cover the shorts and can either have slits for your arms or pancho style. Pair this look with ankle booties and you'll be the toast of the town.
Athletic Shape
For athletic figures, you'll want to balance the silouette of a thicker cape with a slimming pant or jean. "Do as Sofia Coppola does and have some fun with the dramatic cape with an equally exaggerated silhouette," says Trisha of Omiru style blog, "We love how she pairs her voluminous cape with something super skinny on the bottom, juxtaposing an elegant uptown cape with a downtown pair of leggings." Cropped cigarette pants are also a dashing option. For this look, try mixing in a leopard print flat with an oversized Birken bag for a casual yet sophisticated cape style.
Pear Shape
Use what nature gave you. Choose a cape with some structure to it, such as a built-in belt that cinches the waist and accentuates your curves. Flowing capes tend to make a bustier figure look chubby. A shaped cape fits perfectly with a fitted pencil skirt -- very Kim Kardashian chic. Try a white or black cape with a black pencil skirt and sexy patent leather pumps in nude or black. The look is great for the office and translates well from daytime to night.
Full Figure
Length is key for capes for a wider frame. Capes innately are not slimming, but choosing a thigh-length thinner cape will flatter a more voluptuous figure. Opt for a wide leg trouser in a neutral color such as gray or black. For an ultra-glamorous look, add a pair of long leather gloves in a rich burgundy or tan to complement the wideness of the cape.
