19 Bridal Capes to Complement Any Wedding Dress Style

By
Sophie Moore
Sophie Moore
Sophie Moore

Sophie Moore is a former Brides editor and current contributing writer. With over five years of experience in bridal, she is an expert on all things fashion.

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Updated on 06/13/22

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cape

PHOTO BY MASHAIDA CO. AND LEA BREMICKER

You heard it here first: bridal capes are the modern alternative to the wedding veil. From allover embellished styles to elegant floor-length silhouettes, bridal capes share the same stylish and romantic qualities of a veil and complement any style of wedding dress. Whether you're looking to make a serious fashion statement on your wedding day or you're seeking out a bridal cape for added coverage, we've rounded up the best bridal capes ranging from the ultra glamours to the ethereal.

What Is a Bridal Cape?

A bridal cape is an accessory that can be worn over a wedding dress. Bridal capes come in many styles from floor-length to cropped capelets.

For brides looking for showstopping drama, you'll love details like allover embellishments, bold color, and exaggerated lengths. If a minimalist vibe is more your speed, sheer silk, and tulle options are on offer both in full-length silhouettes and cropped capelets. And for the classic bride, there are scores of capes crafted from crisp fabrics and elegant laces to complement any simple wedding dress silhouette.

Whether you're getting married in the winter or summer or saying "I do" at a black-tie or backyard wedding, read on for the best bridal capes for every bridal style, season, and wedding dress silhouette.

Here’s What You Can Get on Sale Before Prime Day
01
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For the Fashion-Forward Bride: Erdem Lace Cape

lace cape

 Courtesy of Matchesfashion
Buy on Matchesfashion.com

Size Range: 2-10 | Shipping: Free shipping on orders over $250; $15 express shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 28 days

For the fashion-forward bride, this exquisite Erdem cape is a no-brainer. Wear yours over a simple slip wedding dress or sleek jumpsuit.

02
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Most Unique: AllAboutRomance Draped Tulle Cape

cape

 Courtesy of All About Romance
Buy on Etsy

Size Range: Custom | Shipping: Free shipping | Return policy: Final sale

For brides who don't want their shoulders or their dress to be covered, consider this cape that fastens at the shoulders. It acts more like a train than a cape and the best part is that it's detachable–perfect for hitting that dancefloor!

03
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Best Slip-On Style: LaVoileRose Pearl Capelet

pearl cape

 Courtesy of LaVoileRose
Buy on Etsy

Size Range: S-L | Shipping: Free shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 5 days; Custom pieces are final sale

If you're looking for a more seamless bridal cape that doesn't tie at either the front or the back, opt for this circular slip-on style capelet.

04
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Most Lightweight: NoonOnTheMoon Hayden Cape

cape

 Courtesy of Noon On The Moon
Buy on Etsy

Size Range: OS | Shipping: $11 standard shipping | Return policy: Final Sale

This stunning raw-edge tulle veil is simplicity at it's finest. Soft and gauzy, it's the perfect touch for brides wanting an alternative to a floor-length veil.

05
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For a Courthouse Wedding: thelotusbloomco Drape Back Cape

draped cape

 Courtesy of thelotusbloomco
Buy on Etsy

Size Range: OS | Shipping: Free shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 5 days; custom pieces are final sale

Planning to say "I do" at City Hall? Consider pairing this cape with a bridal suit for an impossibly chic and memorable wedding day look.

06
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Most Whimsical: WildestDreamsBridalStars Cape

cape

 Courtesy of Wildest Dreams Bridal
Buy on Etsy

Size Range: Custom to dress size | Shipping: Free shipping | Return policy: Final sale

Brides throwing a celestial-themed wedding, we know you're out there! And this star-adorned cape is for you! Each star is of varying sizes and is embellished with translucent sequins for a subtle shine.

07
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Best Allover Pearls: Bridal Separates Lace and Pearl Cape

cape

 Courtesy of Bridal Separates
Buy on Etsy

Size Range: OS/Custom | Shipping: $22.65 standard shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 3 days

The perfect combination of pearls and lace dot and line this flirty capelet making it the perfect addition to a simple wedding dress.

08
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For the Minimalist Bride: Davie and Chiyo Modern Bridal Cape

cape

Courtesy of Davie and Chiyo
Buy on Etsy

Size Range: One size | Shipping: Free Shipping | Return policy: Final sale

Minimalist brides who want to keep it modern and unfussy will love the clean silhouette of this effortless cape. A simple style will always blend seamlessly with a sleek wedding dress.

09
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For a Garden Wedding: La Voile Rose Floral Embroidered Cape

cape

 Courtesy of La Voile Rose
Buy on Etsy

Size Range: Custom | Shipping: Free shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 5 days; Custom pieces are final sale

We love how this colorful cape looks as if the flowers are actually growing on the tulle. Floral details are kept lighter at the top to allow for the back of the dress to be seen.

10
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Most Sparkly: Needle & Thread Embellished Cape

cape

Courtesy of BHLDN
Buy on Bhldn

Size Range: S/M M/L | Shipping: $4.95-$10.95 standard shipping| Return policy: Full refund within 30 days

If you're looking to add a bit of romance to your wedding day look, opt for this intricately beaded cape. You'll feel like a princess gliding down the aisle in this shimmering accessory.

11
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Best Beaded Detailing: Terani Couture Amber Cape

cape

Courtesy of BHLDN
Buy on Bhldn

Size Range: S-L | Shipping: $4.95-$10.95 standard shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days

Looking to add a bit of sparkle to your wedding day look? Check out this intricately beaded sheer cape from Terani Couture. It has the appeal of Old-Hollywood glamour while remaining modern.

12
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Best All-Over Lace: Society James Dianne Cape

dress

Courtesy of BHLDN
Buy on Bhldn

Size Range: S-XL | Shipping: $4.95-$10.95 standard shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days

Delicate and ethereal, this cape from Society James is a truly timeless piece. Pair with a minimalist slip dress to let the cape's detailing shine.

13
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Best Capelet: David's Bridal Pearl-Encrusted Tulle Capelet with Pearl Button

cape

 Courtesy of David's Bridal
Buy on David's Bridal

Size Range: XS-3X | Shipping: Free shipping on orders over $149; $8 standard shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 7 days

For brides who love a traditional look, opt for a lace-trimmed capelet. It's just the right amount of detail that will add to your dress, not detract from it. Keep accessories simple and classic.

14
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Most Delicate: DavieandChiyo Pearl Embellished Caplet

caplet

 Courtesy of DavieandChiyo
Buy on Etsy

Size Range: Custom | Shipping: Free shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 14 days

These strategically placed shimmering pearls are sure to catch the light at just the right moment to make for the most stunning wedding photos.

15
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Most Dramatic: Taller Marmo Grace feather-Trimmed Silk-Chiffon Cape

cape

Courtesy of Matchesfashion
Buy on Matchesfashion.com

Size Range: OS | Shipping: Free shipping for orders over $250; $15 express shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 28 days

This unique cape is finished with a feather trim for a look that feels both dramatic and vintage-inspired. We love this showstopping accessory for the unconventional bride who isn't afraid to make a statement.

16
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Best Subtle Details: Monique Lhuillier Brie Crystal-Embellished Swiss-Dot Cape

cape

 Courtesy of Monique Lhuiller
Buy on Net-a-Porter

Size Range: S-L | Shipping: $10 standard shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 28 days

If you're worried about any added bulk when it comes to a bridal cape, fear not! This swiss-dot tulle cape boasts a slim fit across the shoulders and gathered pleating to keep it in place. We are also loving how the crystal-embellished neckline looks like a piece of sparkling jewelry.

17
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For the Minimalist Bride: Amsale Alençon Lace-Trimmed Tulle Capelet

dress

Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue
Buy on Saks Fifth Avenue

Size Range: 0-10 | Shipping: Free shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days

If you're looking for a cape on the subtler side, consider this simple lace capelet. The minimalist design makes it a fitting addition to any wedding dress.

18
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For the Boho Bride: Esther Andrews Shooting Stars Fringe Cape

cape

Courtesy of Esther Andrews
Buy on Estherandrews.com

Size Range: OS | Shipping: Free standard shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 14 days; Custom pieces are final sale

We can't help but picture this avant-garde cape at a rustic outdoor wedding. It's made from sustainable certified stretch cashmere and is great for summer brides looking for a wearable, lightweight cape. 

19
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For a Winter Wedding: Unreal Fur Nord Faux-Fur Cropped Cape

cape

Courtesy of FarFetch
Buy on Farfetch.com

Size Range: OS | Shipping: $10 standard shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 14 days

Winter brides are guaranteed to need a warm piece to wear on the big day, and we love this faux-fur option. This cropped cape style is timeless and polished.

What to Look for When Buying a Bridal Cape

When searching for a bridal cape, it's important to consider if your dress style will allow for it. Perhaps your dress has intricate detailing on the back or has a long train that might look odd with a cape. Then, you might want to stray away from capes. Comfort and functionality are key on the big day so make sure that your cape won't get in the way while you walk down the aisle.

Plus, it's also essential to consider the weather. Of course, a summer bride will want a lightweight, airy cape, but a winter bride might wish to have their cape as a replacement for their coat. In this case, a heavier cape or capelet is the way to go.

FAQ
  • Where can I shop for a bridal cape?

    Bridal capes are a niche wedding accessory, so you might not find them at all bridal stores. Typically, capes are custom-made to fit your height, and plenty of small businesses specialize in this. Etsy is a great place to start your search, but some stores such as BHLDN and David's Bridal offer a selection of wedding capes as well. If you're purchasing a cape that isn't custom-made, make sure to bring it along with you to your wedding dress fittings. 

  • What is a bridal capelet?

    A bridal capelet is a cropped version of a cape that covers your shoulders and typically hits above your elbows. Capelets are just as popular as traditional capes and are great for brides looking for a subtle take on the cape look.

  • Can I wear a bridal cape and a veil?

    It's your wedding and you should feel free to wear whatever best reflects your personal style, however, if you're planning to wear a floor-length cape with a cathedral length veil you may run the risk of two competing styles getting lost in your overall look. Blushers and birdcage veils pair nicely with floor-length capes while cropped capelets are more conducive to longer length veils.

Why Trust Us

Contributing writer Sophie Moore is a former fashion editor at Brides and is an expert in all things bridal attire, from couture wedding gowns to the perfect "something blue" accessory. She researches and sources the best fashion items for brides, grooms, wedding guests, wedding parties, and more.

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