The perfect way to make a dramatic entrance, capes and capelets add coverage and a massive dose of star quality. This is a bridal trend we simply love – adding an ethereal and floaty finish to your ensemble that’s guaranteed to make you feel like a proper bride
The bridal trend for capes, capelets and variations on the theme looks set to be big for seasons to come. We think that is great news for brides. Here we have an extra styling element to help take a gown from day to night, from ceremony to after-party – and to inject even the simplest design with star quality.
Capes, coverups and capelets are practical too, adding a feeling of ‘coverage’ that can boost confidence and take the chill off a bride’s bare shoulders. They help to provide a more restrained look for the wedding service, especially as many provide a modest screen to conceal the neckline. They also make a great contemporary alternative to the traditional veil, especially if you choose a floor length cape.
Here are eight designs we love from leading UK and international bridal designers, showing just how versatile and glamorous this extra layer can be.
1. Savannah Miller – Spot on
Perfect for making a dramatic entrance, this spotted full-length coverup is by London designer Savannah Miller. It’s shown here worn with one of Savannah’s simple sheath gowns. savannahmiller.com
2. Andrea Hawkes – Silver finish
Showing the versatility of the bridal trend for coverups, this Ivy capelet has an elegant high collar and silvered embellishment, making it perfect for adding a modest extra layer to a wedding gown. It’s designed by Andrea Hawkes and is part of her capsule collection. andreahawkes.co.uk
3. Zuhair Murad – Texture match
This dramatic full length cape-cum-train by Zuhair Murad adds an alluring twist and features the same lush embellishment found on the bodice of the gown. UK exclusive stockist is The Wedding Club. thewedding-club.co.uk
4. Otaduy – Light layer
This gossamer-fine Virpi cape – worn here with Dhanisthta base dress – is the perfect glam cover-up for a destination or high-summer wedding, providing coverage and adding an ethereal element to a simple wedding gown. otaduy.co/en
5. Charlie Brear – Swing out
Mahina is a fine textured coverup with ties at the sleeves, adding flow and movement, the perfect way to add a flowing layer to a cool and contemporary gown. Both are designed by Charlie Brear. charliebrear.com
6. Olvi’s – Lace luxe
With fine lace edging at neckline and hem, this translucent cape drapes at the back to create a simple train effect. It adds a glamorous edge to a form-fitting gown by lace specialist Olvi’s. olvis-lace.com
7. Georges Hobeika – Sparkle factor
The perfect cape-cum-train, this sparkling design is combined with an elegant off-the-shoulder gown for maximum impact down the aisle. The design is by Georges Hobeika, whose UK stockist is The Wedding Club. thewedding-club.co.uk
8. Halfpenny London – Thirties chic
With more than a touch of Hollywood glamour Honeysuckle is a 1930s-inspired short cape with silk-ribbon trim and tie designed by Halfpenny London. It’s shown here with Halfpenny’s Juniper gown. halfpennylondon.com
MORE BRIDAL FASHION TRENDS?
How to add a dash of elegant Period glamour
