With each new season, it becomes more and more apparent that the fashion industry is out to test me. It’s almost as if, prior to designing the collections, all the fashion designers get together, in one of their fabulously chic townhouses no doubt, and decide to re-invent some hideous monstrosity from seasons past and spin it into the most desirable item ever created. This season that item is the cape.

Yes, I said cape. The item of clothing that is most associated with the Batman’s and Superman’s of the world – has now become the most desirable item of Autumn/Winter 2010. You may laugh now, but trust me – come October EVERYONE will be wearing a cape and by the time you decide to jump on board…the best may be well gone.

The cape exists within many of the trends for this season, as demonstrated by Alexander Wang and Celine, which means that it will easily fit into whichever trend you decide to embrace this autumn/ winter. Military is back yet again, and military inspired capes are all over the place. Topshop has a simplistic khaki version with buckle at neck online at the moment for £95, but ASOS has the most exquisite with its ‘Hooded Military Cape’ (€93, pictured centre) – with echoes of red riding hood and shoulder epaulettes, this cape will complete any outfit this season.

For a more relaxed take on the cape – look to the ‘Country Heritage’ trend that Ralph Lauren so frequently champions. As per usual, Whistles has fantastic stock – the cotton-gabardine cape is stunning (£195) and will look perfect teamed with black skinnies and platform boots. To get the cape look right this season, make sure its khaki, simple and has buttons – if it’s good enough for style muse Clemence Poesy (pictured left) its good enough for me!

By Siobhan Lam