Cape Tops and Cape Dresses: How to Wear the Cape Trend

The short answer: cape tops and cape dresses have a panel of fabric that falls from the shoulders like a short cloak, so keep everything below it slim: straight trousers, sheer tights, a narrow heel. This winter Essentiel Antwerp makes the shape in fluid viscose, as the Pink cape-effect top, the Burgundy cape-effect top and the Burgundy cape-effect mini dress. Shop all designer blouses, every mini dress, and the Essentiel Antwerp collection.

The cape is a party trick that looks effortless. It adds movement without sequins, drama without a train, and it hides nothing important: the body underneath stays neat. Essentiel Antwerp is the Belgian label Inge Onsea and Esfan Eghtessadi founded in Antwerp in 1999. It started as a T-shirt line in twenty colours and grew into a full ready-to-wear house known for graphic print, bold colour and a sense of humour.

What is a cape top?

A cape top is a blouse with an extra layer of fabric attached at the shoulders that hangs freely over the back and arms. The Essentiel Antwerp version has a round neckline, dropped shoulders and long, flowing sleeves under the cape, gathering at the back neckline for movement, rolled hems and a concealed back zip.

How to wear a cape top

• With tailored trousers: slim black trousers such as the Black trumpet-shaped tailored pants balance the volume above.
• With a midi skirt: choose a narrow skirt, never a full one.
• With jeans: straight dark denim and a pointed boot for dinner.
• With jewellery: earrings rather than a necklace, since the neckline is high.

Our picks

1. Burgundy cape-effect mini dress

The cape idea taken to a dress: round neck, dropped shoulders, long flowing sleeves and a self-fabric cape on the back.

2. Pink cape-effect top

Fuchsia viscose with a sheer, airy finish. Wear it with black for contrast.

3. Burgundy cape-effect top

The more versatile colour. It goes with black, pink and denim.

Can you wear a coat over a cape top?

Yes, but choose a coat with room in the shoulders, such as an oversized wool coat, and take it off at the door: the cape should be seen. A short cropped blazer worn open also works; see our cropped blazers guide.

Frequently asked questions

Are cape dresses flattering?

They suit most shapes because the cape skims the arms and back while the dress underneath stays close. Short frames should choose a mini length.

What do you wear under a sheer cape top?

The Essentiel Antwerp cape tops are a lightweight viscose. Add a black camisole underneath if you prefer more cover.

Is a cape dress good for a wedding?

For a winter wedding a burgundy cape mini dress is elegant and unusual. Avoid white and ivory.

What is the difference between a cape and a capelet?

A cape is a full outer garment, while a capelet is a short cape that ends at the elbow. A cape top usually carries a capelet built into the garment.

How do you care for a viscose cape top?

Dry clean, cool iron on the reverse and hang it on a padded hanger so the cape falls cleanly.