Beauty

The Cape

By Lauren Smith Ford
kate spade cape + heels

I didn’t have to look far to find the models for this installment of Double Take…in fact, I just had to look across the office as today’s models are none other than my talented co-workers, Chanel and Jenn. We all got excited when we spotted this kate spade new york wool capelette, and I couldn’t wait to see how each stylish gal was going to show their version of how to wear one of our favorite staples for this fall. We headed to the amazing Austin venue Palazzo Lavaca and fantasized about renting it out to host a party of our own throughout all of its luxurious corners.

photography by wynn myers

Chanel, how do you describe your style?

It’s always changing, but I would say that my style remains consistently urban-inspired with lots of black. In general, I play with combining separates and basics in different ways rather than depending on a single dress or statement piece to create an outfit.

*shop the kate spade new york wool capelette

What do you love about this kate spade new york cape?

What first caught my eye was the color — just because it isn’t bright doesn’t mean it can’t grab your attention. And in this case — not so surprisingly — the navy was calling my name. It works like a neutral in that it pairs well with everything, but is still a bit more interesting than the all-too-common black or camel coat.

What was your approach for styling the cape?

With this outfit, I set out to prove that black and navy totally go together, in case there were any doubters still out there. So I paired the cape with…

… a black Free People turtleneck tunic (the item I’m currently wearing to death).

black leather gloves that everyone should have in one form another

black patent leather pumps — I used to hate patent leather, but now I love it.

Where would you rock this cape?

Where wouldn’t I wear it?! It’s great over a dress with heels for a nice dinner out, but still works with jeans and boots, as Jenn so fabulously demonstrated.

Nice arm candy! What’s adorning your wrist? 

My accessories are the same as they always are…

… a gold bracelet that was a birthday present from my dad

… a gold bracelet that was a birthday present from my mom

… a vintage Gucci watch that was my mom’s (my dad had a matching one that my brother now wears).

 

 

Kate Spade New York’s leather bow gloves

What three items for fall are you looking forward to adding to your wardrobe? 

1. I’ll be pulling the trigger on these boots any day now

2. I need a good pair of headphones, like, yesterday

3. And, a great leather toiletries bag for traveling… taking recommendations on this one.

Jenn, how do you describe your style?

My approach to fashion is theatrical — I dress to achieve the mood I want to be in. Some days that’s down to earth and natural. Other days, it’s retro glamour. But overall I’d say I’m drawn to things that feel like they’re from another time, good materials like leather and linen, and great lines.

*shop the kate spade new york wool capelette

What’s currently on your shopping list?

1. A flowy peach silk trench coat

2. Gathered Gauze Maxi Dress from Loup Charmant

3. Apron Dress by Steven Alan


Where will you be wearing a cape this fall and winter?

This would be perfect to wear into a cold theater to see a play or movie. I’d wear it to an art gallery or even to something more casual, like a college football game.

 

What are you loving about sporting this cape?

I love the silhouette. It’s very elegant. There’s just something timeless about that shape. It’s one of those transformative pieces — you put it on and you instantly carry yourself differently, you’re a different version of yourself

How did you style the cape?

I paired the cape with jeans and vintage-style lace up boots from Jeffrey Campbell  I’ve always loved this style of shoe — a feminine version of an antique army boot, like the top of a roller skate. (I’m also wearing kate spade new york’s Embossed Croc Metro Watch.)