Why this dramatic coat style is the chicest way to stay warm this season - and it's all thanks to Claudia Winkleman

This October, capes are less trick and more treat for fashion fans. Once the dramatic uniform of Sherlock Holmes and Count Dracula, the sweeping staple hasn’t always enjoyed the best reputation. That was until The Traitors, when Claudia Winkleman – with the help of her stylist Sinead McKeefry – stepped out in a series of theatrical cape coats, propelling the silhouette to new heights of popularity.

Of course, Winkleman’s gothic-chic look didn’t emerge from nowhere. On the runways, capes made a notable return for S/S 2024, with designers like Valentino embracing the silhouette. For A/W 2024, Chemena Kamali continued the trend in her debut collection for Chloé. But the cape’s style heritage stretches much further back, from Schiaparelli’s 1930s designs to Balenciaga and Dior’s iterations in the 40s and 50s.

As the name suggests, this style is a chic hybrid between a coat and a cape, typically featuring a high neck for added protection in colder weather: a considered feature designed for horseback riders dating back to the 11th century. Thanks to its layered silhouette, it offers excellent warmth and is often blended with trench styles for a lightweight alternative, perfect for those in-between autumn days when the temperature can’t make up its mind.

Monsoon stocks an excellent, traditional version that bears an uncanny resemblance to Winkleman’s coveted Luxury Family Affair cape (which retails at £765). Much like her original, the low-cost high street version comes in sleek black with gold-button detailing for a refined finish. While it may be made from synthetic material, it doesn’t skimp on comfort and warmth. Similarly, Nobody’s Child offers a great version in camel brown, featuring a funnel neck, which is a style we’ve seen plenty of lately.

For a slightly more contemporary version, The White Company offers a sleek cape featuring a draped front and boat neckline for a modern touch. Unlike most others, this version comes without fastenings for a no-fuss, minimalist look, and includes blended wool and cashmere for a luxurious feel. Joules’ version is equally practical, featuring a zip-up front for easy wear. The best part? The latter is made from soft fleece, perfect for staying insulated when the temperature drops.

As for trench-style capes, there’s no shortage of those either. Some come cropped, like Cos’ collared version in dark brown or light beige, or Mango’s design featuring a storm flap at the front. For longer options, Albaray’s Cape Trench stands out, crafted from organic cotton with removable cape detailing and functional cuff tabs.

Shop them all below