Instant French-Girl Chic

To get out of my cashmere cardigan rut, I've been looking for a little cape to wear instead. I finally found a strong contender by A.P.C., a knit version with a double row of buttons down the front that make the whole thing look a lot like a peacoat—one of my all-time favorite wardrobe staples—minus the sleeves. Even if you're a bit daunted by the thought of wearing a cape (the silhouette can get a bit dramatic at times), this one is so simple and pared-down, and throwing it on loosely over your shoulders—whether it's with broken-in cropped khakis or a colorful silk slipdress—instantly telegraphs a je ne sais quoi, gamine cool. It's classic and refined yet interesting, which, come to think of it, in a perfect world would be the common thread of every single thing I own.