Fashion The Cape By InStyle Editors InStyle Editors Facebook Instagram Twitter Our editors and writers comprise decades of expertise across the beauty, fashion, lifestyle and wellness spaces in print and digital. We prioritize journalistic integrity, factual accuracy, and also having fun with every story we share. InStyle's editorial guidelines Updated on August 18, 2011 @ 06:07PM Pin Share Tweet Email Trending Videos Photo: Time Inc Digital Studio The Cape 01 of 06 WHY WE LOVE IT Imaxtree If you have any flair for flare, you've floated the idea of buying one. What can match its billowing sweep and passion? The hesitation: looking like you're late for a duel. But this fall capes have gotten sportier-some are tailored and sleek; others feature slits so you can actually use your arms. Maybe you wouldn't fall on your sword for one, but with rows of stripes or cool leather trim, they sure are a lot of fun. HOW TO WEAR IT The formal ones remain swashbuckling, but shorter versions are as easy to toss on as a scarf. Of course, skinny pants and boots are a natural. But keep the color neutral. A cape is a grand-enough gesture without it coming in crimson. And speaking of hand movements, the bag to carry handily is a tote. Photos: (left to right) Chloe, Chanel, DKNY, Christian Dior 02 of 06 Diesel Black Gold Cape Time Inc Digital Studio Cotton, Diesel Black Gold, $650; 212-625-1555. 03 of 06 J. Crew Cape Time Inc Digital Studio Wool, J. Crew, $298; jcrew.com. 04 of 06 ALC Cape Time Inc Digital Studio Wool-linen, ALC, $693; alcltd.com. 05 of 06 Lauren Moffatt Cape Time Inc Digital Studio Wool with leather, Lauren Moffatt, $450; laurenmoffatt.net. 06 of 06 Lafayette 148 New York Cape Time Inc Digital Studio Wool, Lafayette 148 New York, $598; lafayette148ny.com.