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.

16 Best Bridal Capes of 2023

A bridal cape is a modern alternative to the wedding veil. But rather than wearing it on your head, it's an accessory that can be worn over the shoulders and wedding dress. From all-over embellished styles to elegant floor-length silhouettes and cropped capelets, bridal capes share the same stylish and romantic qualities as a veil and complement any style of wedding dress.

Before choosing a bridal cape, you’ll first want to consider the style and silhouette of your wedding dress. When shopping for a cape, determine what length, materials, and details will work best with your dress and overall wedding aesthetic, venue, and season. If you're hosting a romantic garden ceremony, you might consider a lacy bohemian style. Throwing a classic black-tie affair? A floor-length tulle option may be better suited for your bridal look.

To help you discover the best bridal capes, we researched a variety of styles from trusted brands with these features in mind–whether you’re looking to make a fashion statement on your wedding day or you’re seeking a bridal cape for added coverage. For an understated look, we love the Amsale Alençon Lace-Trimmed Tulle Capelet. Looking for head-turning drama? Our top picks are the Taller Marmo Grace Feather-Trimmed Silk Chiffon Cape and the NoonOnTheMoon Hayden Cape.

Read on for the best bridal capes on the market today.

Our Top Picks

For the Fashion-Forward Bride:

Erdem Lace Cape at Matchesfashion.com

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Most Unique:

AllAboutRomance Draped Tulle Cape at Etsy

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Best Slip-On Style:

LaVoileRose Pearl Capelet at Etsy

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Most Lightweight:

NoonOnTheMoon Hayden Cape at Etsy

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For a Courthouse Wedding:

thelotusbloomco Drape Back Cape at Etsy

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Most Whimsical:

WildestDreamsBridalStars Cape at Etsy

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Best All-Over Pearls:

Bridal Separates Lace and Pearl Cape at Etsy

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For the Minimalist Bride:

DavieandChiyo Modern Bridal Cape at Etsy

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For a Garden Wedding:

LaVoileRose Floral Embroidered Cape at Etsy

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Best All-Over Lace:

Society James Dianne Cape at Bhldn

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Courtesy of Matchesfashion

View On Matchesfashion.com

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

This exquisite Erdem white organza cape exudes an ethereal quality when gently draped over the shoulders. Made of a lightweight blend of silk and polyester, the Angelo lace cape flares out and hits approximately above the knee. The cape is embroidered with a floral motif, trimmed with satin piping, and has a simple, adjustable tie-front closure. For the fashion-forward bride, this graceful cape will look elegant over a classic slip wedding dress or a sleek jumpsuit.

Price at time of publish: $3,485

Courtesy of All About Romance

View On Etsy

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

The Morgan cape is perfect for brides with intricate dress detailing on the back that they don’t want to cover. Handcrafted using English net, this customizable cape is made-to-order in ivory, white, or silk white, and in lengths from 75 to 110 inches. Ideal for when you hit the dance floor, this lightweight and versatile cape detaches easily with tiny metal clips that are cleverly located on the cape's underside.

Price at time of publish: $215

Courtesy of LaVoileRose

View On Etsy

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

This slip-on sheer capelet drapes lightly and elegantly over the shoulders. It’s slightly longer in the back than the front and is handmade to order. You can choose from white, ivory, or black lace over tulle, with or without matching pearls. With no ties, zippers, or clasps, the lightweight Audrey topper offers simplicity and is ideal for a summer or courthouse wedding.

Price at time of publish: $6

Courtesy of Noon On The Moon

View On Etsy

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

This stunning raw-edge tulle cape is simplicity at its finest. Soft and gauzy, it's the perfect touch for brides wanting an alternative to a floor-length veil. Handmade of English net, this lightweight contemporary cape is available in soft white, pale ivory, or ivory, and in lengths from 75 to 135 inches. The Hayden cape has a dramatic wide train and secures at the neck with a delicate gold or silver-finished chain clasp.

Price at time of publish: $195

Courtesy of thelotusbloomco

View On Etsy

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

This impossibly chic bridal cape will look equally stunning when paired with an intricately detailed wedding dress or a simple bridal suit. Made to order from sheer tulle in a range of colors from white, ivory, and champagne to beige, brown, and black, this stylish cape drapes from the shoulders and pools gracefully at the lower back. The cape attaches easily at the shoulders with the included silver bar pins.

Price at time of publish: $188

Courtesy of Wildest Dreams Bridal

View 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 capelet was created just for you. The sheer lace capelet is decorated with embroidered stars in varying sizes and then embellished with translucent sequins for a subtle shine. Tailor-made to your dress size, the capelet fastens at the front of the neckline with a hidden hook and eye closure.

Price at time of publish: $152

Courtesy of Bridal Separates

View On Etsy

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

The perfect combination of pearls and glitter, this flirty capelet makes the ideal addition to a simple wedding dress. Delicate lace lines the entire bottom of the capelet, which is slightly shorter in the front than the back. With a wide neckline that drapes gracefully across the shoulders, this handmade capelet will add a romantic touch to your wedding day apparel.

Price at time of publish: $98

Courtesy of Davie and Chiyo

View 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. The simple sheer style will blend seamlessly with a sleek wedding dress. Handmade from light and airy chiffon, the stylish high-low Beatrix cape pools dramatically at the back while the front lands at about the midriff.

Price at time of publish: $181

Courtesy of La Voile Rose

View 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 sheer off-white tulle. The embroidered floral details are light at the top so that the back of the dress can be seen. This show-stopping cape attaches at the shoulders with a choice of brooch pins or lobster claw clips, depending on dress style. The cape can be customized with different trim finishes and lengths, from a 60-inch waltz length to a 150-inch empress length.

Price at time of publish: $292

Courtesy of BHLDN

View On Bhldn

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

Delicate and airy, this cape from Society James is a truly timeless piece. Pair with a minimalist slip dress to let the cape's detailing shine. This wide, sweeping ivory cape has a floral pattern and a touch of sequins for added sparkle. The cape closes simply at the neckline with a hook and eye fastener.

Price at time of publish: $498

Courtesy of DavieandChiyo

View On Etsy

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

For an understated yet embellished capelet, the Elenna—with tiny pearls applied to delicate, sheer tulle—stands out. The wide, finished neckline gives the capelet a relaxed and elegant look. Those strategically placed shimmering pearls are sure to catch the light at just the right moment to make for the most stunning wedding photos.

Price at time of publish: $139

Courtesy of Matchesfashion

View On Matchesfashion.com

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

The Grace cape is finished with ostrich feather trim that gives it a look that feels both dramatic and vintage-inspired. The cape is made of sheer silk chiffon and has a relaxed loose fit. This unique cape comes in one size with an adjustable tie at the neckline. We love this show-stopping accessory for the unconventional bride who isn't afraid to make a bold entrance.

Price at time of publish: $1,980

Courtesy of Monique Lhuiller

View On Net-a-Porter

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

This statement cape from Monique Lhuillier is made of sheer white Swiss-dot tulle. The lightweight ankle-length cape is cut slim across the shoulders, has gathered pleating to keep it in place, and has a loose, drapey fit. We also love that the crystal-embellished neckline looks like a piece of sparkling jewelry.

Price at time of publish: $1,725

Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue

View 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 from Amsale. With a bateau neckline and Alençon-lace trim, this graceful capelet has a minimalist design that makes it a fitting addition to any wedding dress style. The top is completely sheer with lace trim on just the lower third of the ivory cape.

Price at time of publish: $330

Courtesy of Esther Andrews

View On Estherandrews.com

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

This asymmetric knit cape is handmade from sustainable stretch cashmere. The cape drapes loosely across the shoulders and fits an inclusive size range from XS to 6X. The shooting star fringe is made of 100% hand-tied silk. Perfect for summer brides looking for a wearable, lightweight cape, we can’t help but picture this avant-garde accessory at a rustic outdoor wedding.

Price at time of publish: $1,100

Courtesy of FarFetch

View 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 from Unreal Fur. This ivory cape comes in one size and features a classic collar and a concealed hook and eye closure. The cape is fitted at the shoulders and loose at the waist and has a cropped style that is flattering and timeless.

Price at time of publish: $366

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 a cape as a replacement for their coat. In this case, a heavier cape or capelet is the way to go. When choosing a cape style that's best for you, consider your wedding dress silhouette, as well as your overall wedding venue, theme, and season.

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 Brides

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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