Recently, we've seen many brides turn heads on their wedding days thanks to fresh, contemporary fashion choices (think jumpsuits, hats, and colorful gowns). The latest bridal fashion trend to take off combines new-age style with a romantic, regal twist: Brides-to-be, meet bridal capes. Ever since Solange Knowles wore one on her wedding day, more and more engaged women have followed suit. The result? A look that is undeniably gorgeous and unexpected.
While these wedding dress accents are definitely contemporary, they can still feel classic. For a traditional look, consider a lace-trimmed version. If you're throwing a modern event, a sleek cloak is your best choice. Believe it or not, bridal capes can even work in the context of a country wedding. Take the bride at this rustic celebration, which was inspired by the show Fixer Upper, for example: She wowed in a semi-sheer cape from Allure Bridals. If you look closely, you'll also notice the lace appliqués around the bottom of the garment, which added a dose of elegance.
There are also a number of different ways you can wear and embellish a big-day cape. From sheer material studded with classic pearls to tulle decorated with the tiniest stars, there's a version of this dress accent out there for every bride-to-be and wedding style. Capes can also come in handy if you're planning a cold-weather event—they're a stylish way to keep warm. In the following slides, you'll discover brides who made this unexpected garment their own. Their stunning ensembles might just convince you to make the trend your own.
Trailing Sleeves
This Sassy Chic Bridal gown wowed for two reasons: Its unconventional beige hue and delicate fabrication (note the pretty accents that trailed behind each strap).
Pleated
This bride added subtle texture to her wedding dress by topping it with Lihi Hod's pleated mini cape.
Patterned
This trendy bridal ensemble was complete with a short, bell-sleeved dress and paisley-patterned cape by Daughters of Simone.
Old World
Layer lace over lace for an Old-World feel. These two Robert Bullock pieces came together to create a timeless, vintage vibe.
Capelet
Not all capes have to have length in order to make a statement. Take this pearl capelet by Jenny Yoo, for example.
Wrap Around
This bride accessorized her Jesus Peiro wedding dress with a chiffon cape by George Anthony Bridal. The gauzy material was sheer, so it didn't obscure the gown's unique bodice.
Embellished
A jeweled collar attached this Gibson Bespoke cape to the bride's custom Rebecca Schoneveld dress.
Lengthy
This bride's ensemble was beautifully dramatic thanks to her long, sheer Champagne And GRIT Co. cape.
Mixed Materials
Don't be afraid to mix materials for your dress and cape. Just look to this bride, who wore a Grace Love Lace silk gown with a lace cape, for proof that it works.
Regal
A substantial, all-lace cloak by A Bride by Samantha gave off royal vibes at this black-tie event.
Open Front
Show off the bodice of your dress by opting for a cape with an open front. This one by Rebecca Schoneveld did just that.
Sparkling
This long cloak by Berta was a stand out in both length and design. Its crystal embellishments made every inch of the cape sparkle.
Modern
A modified cape made this Carla Zampatti wedding dress feel even more contemporary. It also added a bit of dimension to the column gown.
Lace Trim
Consider wearing a white capelet over your colorful wedding dress for a unique, multi-tonal look. This lace-trimmed capelet option Marisol Aparicio contrasted her blush dress beautifully.
Lacey Capelet
The lace on this capelet (the bride bought it on Etsy!) nearly matched the fabric on the bodice of her Della Curva wedding dress.
Starry
Stars covered this tulle cape by Galia Lahav. The bride chose this ensemble because the stars reminded her of the sky in Montana, which is where she grew up.
Ultra-Sheer
This bride's organza cape was more than just a big-day accessory: It was made with love by her sister.
Red
Get even more creative with your cape by bringing in some color. This ethereal Claire Pettiebone number featured red embroidery that wowed down the aisle.
Lehenga
This bride donned a gold and crystal cape by Sabyasachi Mukherjee over her traditional lehenga.
Ethereal
Although this Naeem Kahn cape gave off subtle vintage vibes, the bride's Floressence flower crown brought a whimsical feel to her look.
Beachy
The cape on this Leanne Marshall number fit right into this couple's beach nuptials.
Warm Weather
A sheer, breezy cape from Tatyana Merenyuk prevented this bride from overheating during her Moroccan desert nuptials while also protecting her from the blazing sun.
Lace Addition
A stretch of lace secured this silk Elizabeth Fillmore cape to the bride's shoulders.
Focal Point
Laila Bridal Studio designed this silk chiffon cape; it was the focal point of the bride's big-day outfit.
Gold Clasps
This bride opted for a tulle cape by Elizabeth Dye. The designer affixed the topper to the gown with gold clasps in the shape of flowers.
Fur
A major benefit of capes? They work well at winter weddings, as evidenced by this bride's warm, faux fur-trimmed cape, which she had custom made.