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.

22 Best Bridal Capes of 2022

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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, we've rounded up the best bridal capes for every bridal style, season, and wedding dress silhouette.

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Most Lightweight: NoonOnTheMoonSilk Cape

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.

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For the Minimalist Bride: Davie and Chiyo Modern Bridal Cape

Size Range: S-XL | Shipping: Free Shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 14 days

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.

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For the Fashion-Forward Bride: Erdem Lace Cape

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.

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For a Courthouse Wedding: thelotusbloomco Drape Back Cape

draped cape — Courtesy of thelotusbloomco

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.

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Most Whimsical: WildestDreamsBridalStars Cape

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.

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Most Unique: AllAboutRomance Draped Tulle Cape

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!

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Best Capelet: David's Bridal Beaded Lace Appliqué Trim Cape

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 to add to your dress, not detract from it. Keep accessories simple and classic.

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Most Versatile: SeniDey Tulle Cape

Size Range: Short-Long | Shipping: $15.24 standard shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 5 days

If this cape makes you want to run along the beach–tulle floating in the wind, then you've found your perfect match. Little details like a keyhole back that ties at the neck, make this style all the more sweeter.

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Most Vintage-Inspired: Davie and Chiyo Lace Cape

Size Range: S-XL| Shipping: Free shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 14 days

There is something to be said about just really beautiful lace and with this style cape, you have the option to choose from four very different but equally as gorgeous laces.

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Best Allover Pearls: Bridal Separates Lace and Pearl Cape

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.

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For a Garden Wedding: La Voile Rose Floral Embroidered Cape

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.

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Best Slip-On Style: LaVoileRose Pearl Capelet

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.

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Most Delicate: DavieandChiyo Pearl Embellished Caplet

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.

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Best Fringe Detailing: Taller Marmo Lee Fringed Marble-Jacquard Crepe Cape

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

This unique cape features a subtle swirling pattern with fringe detailing. The vintage-esque tassels that hang from a simple tie at the neck is the perfect touch for the unconventional bride.

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Best All-Over Lace: Society James Dianne Cape

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.

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

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.

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Best Feathered Cape: Huishan Zhang Feather Cape Jacket

Size Range: 4-8 | Shipping: Free shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days

Go bold with this show-stopping piece from Huishan Zhang. The cape is adorned with ostrich feathers and falls below the hip.

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Most Elegant: BHLDN Adria Cape

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

If your 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 accessory.

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For the Boho Bride: Esther Andrews Shooting Stars Fringe Cape

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.

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Best Beaded Detailing: Terani Couture Amber Cape

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.

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

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.

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

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.

22 Bridal Capes to Complement Any Wedding Dress Style

Most Lightweight: NoonOnTheMoonSilk Cape

For the Minimalist Bride: Davie and Chiyo Modern Bridal Cape

For the Fashion-Forward Bride: Erdem Lace Cape

For a Courthouse Wedding: thelotusbloomco Drape Back Cape

Most Whimsical: WildestDreamsBridalStars Cape

Most Unique: AllAboutRomance Draped Tulle Cape

Best Capelet: David's Bridal Beaded Lace Appliqué Trim Cape

Most Versatile: SeniDey Tulle Cape

Most Vintage-Inspired: Davie and Chiyo Lace Cape

Best Allover Pearls: Bridal Separates Lace and Pearl Cape

For a Garden Wedding: La Voile Rose Floral Embroidered Cape

Best Slip-On Style: LaVoileRose Pearl Capelet

Most Delicate: DavieandChiyo Pearl Embellished Caplet

Best Fringe Detailing: Taller Marmo Lee Fringed Marble-Jacquard Crepe Cape

Best All-Over Lace: Society James Dianne Cape

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

Best Feathered Cape: Huishan Zhang Feather Cape Jacket

Most Elegant: BHLDN Adria Cape

For the Boho Bride: Esther Andrews Shooting Stars Fringe Cape

Best Beaded Detailing: Terani Couture Amber Cape

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

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

The Ultimate Guide to Bridal Accessories

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