Photo of Zara Checked Studio Cape

The cape is back and better than ever. Discard your summer cardigan and make the transition to winter in one of these on-trend versions

In typical fashion, this year the British weather has been all over the place – glorious sunshine one minute and then thundering down with rain the next. You don’t want to be too warm in a bulky jacket, yet it’s not quite hot enough to go without any kind of coat. Looking stylish between seasons can be difficult, but one way to ensure that you always put your fashion foot forward is with a head-turning cape coat.

The most stylish way to cover up, cape coats were a huge trend on the autumn/winter catwalks, meaning they will be everywhere next season. But thankfully they're easy to wear and flattering, so you can embrace the trend without worry. Go as simple or daring as you like, with different shapes and patterns already emerging in shops ready for the new season.

We’ve scoured the shops for the best cape coats currently on the high street. These fashion-forward buys will give your outfit an instant chic factor, while keeping you warm when temperatures drop. Great for every day wear, these cape coats are also a stylish way to cover up in the evening or for more formal occasions.

Not sure if the trend is right for you? Our team of fashion experts are on hand to advise how to find the best cape for your body shape and what to pair it with. From the hooded cape that’s already making waves in the fashion industry to the stylish cape that goes with everything, these are the style pieces your wardrobe needs. We’ve even found a bargain buy that’s bang on trend, and perfect for flattering your waist.

Get ahead of the fashion game by snapping up one of our top 10 capes available on the high street now...

Find more style tips and advice here.

John Lewis Maria hooded cape coat, £130

John Lewis Maria hooded cape coat, £130

Snuggle up on cooler days with this cosy John Lewis cape. We'll be pairing it with jeans and boots for a simple but stylish look.

Mango wool-blend cape, £79.99

Mango wool-blend cape, £79.99

Understated and classic, this Mango cape is the perfect first step into the trend. Pair it with sharp tailoring and boots in the office, or dark denim and cashmere knits for an off-duty look.

Zara hooded cape with piping, £69.99

Zara hooded cape with piping, £69.99

This Zara cape has already been making waves within the fashion industry, and it's not hard to see why. Neutral colours and a draped sillouette give the perfect on-trend look for autumn. The pockets and hood also make it practical - we love!

Biba button detail cape, £149

Biba button detail cape, £149

A funnel neck looks stylish and will keep you warm on chilly days, so this Biba cape is practically perfect! Wear it open on warmer days, or fasten it up to show off the button detailing when it's colder.

Simply Be belted cape, £40

Simply Be belted cape, £40

Love the idea of a cape, but don't want to swamp your frame? This Simply Be cape could be the cover-up for you. The belt help to draw in your waist, and the sleeves are great for covering up arms.

H&M cape, was £34.99, now £20

H&M cape, was £34.99, now £20

For a bargain coat that will keep you covered for seasons to come, look no further than this stylish offering from H&M. The wide sleeves are great if you're wearing jumpers, and the figure-flattering belt will give you a cinched in waist.

ASOS reversible cape with check panel, £25

ASOS reversible cape with check panel, £25

Blanket cover-ups are big news right now, and this ASOS number will be a great addition to your new season wardrobe. A lighter shade will look great with neutral colours and ankle boots. At just £35, it's a must-have!

Great Plains Gabriel coating cape, was £130, now £49

Great Plains Gabriel coating cape, was £130, now £49

Pair this Great Plains cape with bright colours to brighten up a dull day. The neutral colour will look great with anything, but we'll be wearing it with next season's red styles to make a real statement.

Michael Kors felted wool-blend cape, was £345, now £120.75

Michael Kors felted wool-blend cape, was £345, now £120.75

Toughen up your daywear with this Michael Kors military style cape from The Outnet. The cropped shape is perfect to wear with high-waisted skirts and trousers, and won't cut length from your legs. The button detailing will dress up even the most plain of outfits.

Ted Baker Vickiye woollen cape, £199

Ted Baker Vickiye woollen cape, £199

The structured shape of this Ted Baker cape will instantly make any outfit look designer. Bonus points for the clean neckline - next season is all about ditching the collar! Wear this with a pencil skirt and draped scarf for a perfect work and leisure look.

Abigail Malbon

Abigail Malbon is a journalist who has written for the likes of CN Traveller, Evening Standard, Red and Cosmopolitan. She likes pina coladas and exploring new places.