With the arrival of autumn, what wardrobe would be complete without the elegant touch of a cape? This fall, Dakota Johnson perfectly embodied the cape’s stylish and practical appeal, making it a new fall favorite. Not only did her look capture the trend, but she also embraced the cape’s endless possibilities as a versatile outerwear piece.
The Charm of the Cape and the Season’s Trends
Compared to traditional coats, capes emphasize freedom and layering, making them ideal for autumn’s unpredictable weather. They elegantly hug the figure while flexibly layering, offering warmth and a light, airy feel.
Capes, shawls, and blankets were a frequent sight on the Fall/Winter 2025 runways. Brands like Ferragamo, Chloé, and Bottega Veneta revitalized the cape with flowing fabrics, delicate pleats, and soft colors. Whether in bohemian cream tones or structured, layered designs, they conveyed a dual narrative of femininity and strength.
Dakota Johnson’s Classic Cape Look
On stage at the Zurich Film Festival, Dakota Johnson wore a black silk cape from Ferragamo’s Fall 2025 collection, paired with a smooth steel-gray knit sweater and a black structured miniskirt, perfectly balancing modern and retro vibes. Silver drop earrings, sheer stockings, and Saint Laurent high-heeled boots added a touch of elegance and poise to the look.
Elsewhere, in New York, she paired a brown trench coat and cape with a wide brown handbag, embodying an everyday style that blends urban casualness with sophistication. These looks showcase the versatile expression of capes in various settings, from the red carpet to a casual stroll.
The Practicality and Fashion of Modern Capes
- Wearability: The loose cape design allows for flexibility without the constricting feeling of a traditional coat.
- Layerable: It can be paired with a variety of layers, adding layers to a look and creating a variety of styles. Classic yet edgy: Capes blend retro charm with modern fashion, perfect for those seeking individuality and elegance.
Adaptable to the climate: Lightweight fabrics withstand autumn’s fluctuating temperatures, providing warmth and breathability, perfect for unpredictable weather.
How to Wear a Cape
- Choose a fabric that complements your outfit, such as a silk cape paired with a fine knit or silk dress to elevate the overall look.
- Use a belt or waistband to create curves and avoid the bulkiness of a cape.
- Pair with simple high-heeled boots or sophisticated sneakers for a comfortable and stylish look.
- Accessorize with minimal jewelry to highlight the cape’s flowing lines and subtle details.
The cape sways gently in every autumn breeze, and Dakota Johnson’s style makes it a must-have fashion item this fall. The cape’s freedom and elegance are perfect for expressing individuality and perfectly aligning with the ever-changing rhythms of the seasons. It’s so chic, you might as well keep one in your wardrobe to add a touch of modernity this autumn.