Do you desire to wear a modern alternative to a veil that will still elevate your bridal ensemble? Look no further, because the bridal cape has returned to the runways, and it is the perfect replacement.
Whether it be a cape with glistening crystal embellishment, a classic lace trim or delicate pearl detailing, this statement accessory adds a regal twist to any bridal look, whilst simultaneously maintaining the same romantic attributes of the classic veil.
At New York Bridal Fashion week in October, unconventional bridal capes were implemented into the collections of several notable designers to accessorise their newest gowns. Couture bridal designer Mira Zwillinger, for instance, showcased a cathedral length tulle cape with 3D floral detailing which cascaded over the train of her ethereal A-line gown, as part of her A/W 23 assortment: a fairy tale extension of her Spring/Summer 2023 “Wonders” collection. Ines De Santo’s ‘Crescent’ gown, featured within her Fall 2023 bridal couture collection also incorporated an opulent satin hand painted cape to complement the gown’s simplistic yet breath-taking mermaid silhouette. Monique Lhuillier certainly didn’t shy away from her signature florals when designing her ‘Bouquet’ gown as part of her Fall 2023 bridal collection, which features a matching rose printed chiffon cape, providing the ensemble with a gorgeous whimsical touch.
Bridal stylists are certainly beginning to notice a significant increase in the number of brides expressing an interest in wearing a cape, as opposed to the traditional veil. Laura Woodhall, sales manager at the UK flagship David’s Bridal store in Westfield, Stratford, with over 15 years of experience in bridal styling reiterates this: “Bridal capes are becoming an extremely popular choice for brides at our store, especially for people who are looking for a more bohemian style bridal gown, as a cape ties in very well with this aesthetic. They are also perfect for winter weddings, as they provide just enough coverage as well as elevating the overall bridal look.”
From observation of paintings, it can be determined that the fashion cape actually dates way back to 1066, firstly originating as a utilitarian accessory draped across a soldier’s shoulder. As time went on, more intricate and detailed styles of capes were emerging, and this once purely - protective accessory soon became a way of demonstrating rank within society; with royalty wearing the most extravagant designs. Fast forward to the 1920s, capes began to be worn by women over evening dresses, and as functionality became the top priority, by 1950 designers had completely reimagined the design of the cape by altering the length to the chest and closing the front. This design was overruled as the free-spirited nature of the 1970s saw the relaxed, crochet poncho style cape inspired by South American outerwear grow in popularity. Perhaps the influence of the 1970s explains why brides aspiring to wear a bohemian style gown often look towards wearing an avant-garde cape as opposed to a veil. After 40 years of remaining under the radar, blanket-style poncho capes returned to the catwalks in Christopher Bailey’s Fall/Winter 2014 collection for Burberry, sparking vast popularity. Capes made another comeback four years later through Erdem’s Fall 2018 collection featuring an art deco style jacquard cape, in the same year that the elegant outerwear piece took the bridal world by storm, as a result of the influence of Berta’s standout 1920s style beaded gown and cape from their 2018 Seville collection. Alas, four years on the bridal cape has made its return, and the several contrasting looks by a vast realm of designers spotted on the runway this year at New York Bridal Fashion Week represent the versatility of the cape; there is a version out there for everybody, regardless of your bridal aesthetic.
But how exactly do you style the bridal cape in a way that will complement your gown? Zoe Kozlik, Bridal Director at PS Bridal Styling, says: “This can depend on the style of cape you are opting for. If you’re going for a statement cape with either bellowing sleeves or lots of embellishment, you’ll want to opt for a simpler dress underneath, like a silk slip or minimalist style dress.”
Zoe also says that: “A cape can be great for many reasons. It can give you two looks in one, it’s great for covering you up for a ceremony if you’re getting married in a Church and it can give your bridal look a more modern edge.”
The accessory’s incredible ability to empower and liberate brides is undoubtedly its most praised attribute; it’s no wonder that the cape is taking the bridal world by storm. What was once worn purely as a status symbol, limited to only the highest-ranking males in society, is now the ultimate go - to for non- conforming brides across the globe searching for a glamorous substitute for the ceremonial veil.
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