How To Wear A Cape Like Kate Middleton And Meghan Markle

When it comes to fashion, the royals are the new caped crusaders. Sisters-in-law and Duchesses, both Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle have been spotted sporting cape-dress or cape-jacket hybrids, making a comeback of the simple cut in a very un-Little Red Riding Hood way.

Both the Duchess of Cambridge and the Duchess of Sussex have worn the cape in different styles, whether it's in full-on formal attire, like the chic Mulberry coat Middleton recently donned on her trip to Northern Ireland, or as a simple sheath-cape combo as Markle did at the Queen's 92nd birthday party.

The takeaway: a cape embellishment is versatile, stylish, and we should all get on board. See how both Kate and Meghan have worn the trend and shop similar styles for yourself!

Related article: Meghan Markle And Prince Harry Have Reportedly Confirmed The Sex Of Their Baby

The Cape Dress

Shortly before her wedding to Prince Harry in 2018, Meghan attended the Queen's 92nd birthday in a sleek navy blue Stella McCartney sheath dress whose sole embellishment was the cape cut. It was understated, yet feminine—par for the course when it comes to the now-Duchess of Sussex's aesthetic. Proof that you don't need tons of bells and whistles to elevate a dress for a fancier setting.

The Cape Coat

Kate's Mulberry cape coat, which she donned while visiting Northern Ireland, is testament to the fact that a simple addition of fastened embellishment at the shoulders can update a classic A-line coat dress silhouette, freshening it for 2019. Plus, the looser sleeves can prove ultra-flattering to anyone, but especially for those who don't care to show off their upper arms. Fashion-forward and functional styling, imagine that.

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The Cape Gown

Both Duchesses have modelled how to bring the cape into a super formal setting. With Kate, her blush chiffon Alexander McQueen gown with crystal detailing at the collar was delicate and fluttery, but also not overly busy. Instead the flowing cape not only flattered her burgeoning baby bump, but also but added interest to the look without any busy-ness.

Meghan, on the other hand wore a bone-hued Christian Dior cape dress on her official visit to Morocco, but the cut was more structured. Even so, it provided elegant detailing to an otherwise simple and modestly cut gown.

For your next formal event, the message is clear: ditch the bows and the long trains and wear a cape gown instead.

Related article: The Year In Kate Middleton: The Duchess’ Best Looks Of 2018

This article originally appeared on Town & Country.