The Perfect Cape?

Elle magazine shares with us six ways to wear one cape, which takes us from day to night with various looks. I've also included some of my personal favorites.

Ever since Gwyneth Paltrow donned that white hot Tom Ford cape at the 2012 Oscars, we've been set on attempting a cape moment of our own. Lucky for us, a host of designers showed very wearable cape options for fall 2013 (that don't require a red-carpet invitation). Here, the perfect cape for any occasion, and everything you need to wear with it. (cape courtesy of H&M)

For an Afternoon at the Museum

A turtleneck sweater, jeans, and sleek booties are easy, go-to items that will look good with almost any cape. Make the outfit stand out by carrying a statement clutch, like this "Cool" one from Lanvin.

H&M Cape, $99; hm.com; Chinti and Parker Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater, $455; net-a-porter.com; Current/Elliott The Ankle Skinny Mid-Rise Jeans, $240; net-a-porter.com; Jil Sander Chunky-Heel Leather Ankle Boots, $920; net-a-porter.com; Saint Laurent Bold Havana Acetate Sunglasses, $300; forzieri.com; Lanvin Top Zip Clutch, $870, farfetch.com

For the Office

Mix things up with a patterned skirt and over-the-knee boots. Don't forget to throw tights on underneath for a polished look.

H&M Cape, $99; hm.com; Kenzo Boxy Kimono Shirt, $376; farfetch.com; Kenzo ‘Eye’ Embroidered Skirt, $538; farfetch.com; Marni Pouchette Clutch, $555; farfetch.com; Gianvito Rossi Over-the-Knee Boots, $1,412; farfetch.com

For a Shopping Excursion

For an easy daytime ensemble, pair a cape with a sweater, plaid trousers, and flat black boots.

H&M Cape, $99; hm.com; J Brand Luxe-Felt Contrast Sweater, $776; lyst.com; Zara Checked Trousers With Zips, $79; zara.com; H&M Low boots, $59.95; hm.com; Eddie Borgo Rose Gold-Plated Crystal Chain Bracelet, $500; net-a-porter.com

For Class

Take a cue from the boys and throw on a smart, menswear-inspired button-up and shorts. Make the outfit a bit more whimsical with a fun bag, like this Olympia Le-Tan bookish clutch.

H&M Cape, $99; hm.com; Carven Contrast Collar Cotton Shirt, $225; my-wardrobe.com; Carven Boiled Wool Shorts, $364; my-wardrobe.com; Proenza Schouler Black Ankle Boots, $742; my-wardobe.com; Olympia Le-Tan War and Peace Embroidered Clutch, $1,880; net-a-porter.com

For Cocktails

Capes are undoubtedly easier to pull off with pants. You can't go wrong with leather pants, a crewneck sweater, and high-heeled booties.

H&M Cape, $99; hm.com; Burberry Prorsum Soldier Sweater, $1,443; farfetch.com; Isabel Marant ‘Kerry’ Biker Leather Trouser, $1,625; farfetch.com; Tabitha Simmons Hunter Leather and Calf Hair Ankle Boots, $1,295; modaoperandi.com; Tom Binns Safety Pin Bracelet, $290; farfetch.com

For a Date

Dress it up for evening with a leather miniskirt, a pair of strappy pumps, and something sheer. We're loving this Jason Wu striped tulle sweater, which shows a flash of skin but keeps you warm, too.

H&M Cape, $99; hm.com; Jason Wu Striped Merino Wool and Tulle Sweater, $750; net-a-porter.com; Maiyet Leather and Braided Calf Hair Wrap Skirt, $1,995; net-a-porter.com; Aldo Rise x Preen Elfea Pumps, $160; aldo.com; Lynn Ban Stackable Sagged Knuckle Ring, $710; farfetch.com

Lauren Ralph Lauren, $134.99; zappos.com

Michael Kors, $295; zappos.com

MSGM, $635; farfetch.com

Asos, $104.12; asos.com

MSGM, $888.25; farfetch.com

Chicos, $179; chicos.com

Collezione, $74.99; jcp.com

(elle.com)