E-Mail This Article to a Friend Cape town Not sure what to throw on with that little cocktail dress? A capelet may be the solution. BY DARCY HEITZKE

When it comes to seasonal cover-ups, it’s difficult to keep them all straight. It’s nice to have options, but sometimes too many can be downright overwhelming. What would look best with that new outfit — a bolero or a shrug? A poncho or a shawl? A stole or a wrap?

How about a miniature cape? Better known as a capelet, this hot little fashion accent might just be the answer to this season’s cover-up questions. Capes aren’t just for superheroes and Little Red Riding Hood; they’ve been modified, miniaturized, and feminized into an ultra-chic, must-have accessory. If you’re hesitant to invest in yet another trendy trimming that may go with only one or two outfits, rest assured that the capelet is extremely versatile.

For a night out on the town, tie on a pink or black lacy hand-knit capelet by Anna Kula ($87), from Girlshop. Made of merino wool and accented with a satin ribbon, this lightweight mini cape can dress up an otherwise ordinary outfit. For something fancier, head to Bebe, where you’ll find an elegant gold sequined capelet ($98). This dainty, antique-looking cape comes with a wide gold-silk tie and is perfect for evenings that aren’t too cold. Equally charming is Bebe’s brown floral lace capelet ($54), a satin-trimmed, scallop-edged cover-up that can add girly flair to any outfit.

Anthropologie, the store that’s always well-stocked with all things delicate and feminine, has a plethora of capelets from which to choose. The mint-green Quincey capelet ($128) is a lightweight, breezy, waist-length cape made of extra-soft mohair that ties at the neck. Available at Anthropologie online is the crocheted Bed of Roses capelet by Lulu Guinness ($248). This adorable raspberry drape, with pink wool flowers perched on each shoulder, will make you feel like the belle of the ball. Looking for a capelet that goes with everything? Check out the multicolor knit capelet by Free People ($112), available at Olive and Bette’s. This little fringed cover-up is cozy and casual and looks perfect with a pair of jeans.

If you’re into the fur look this season, but don’t want to offend any critters (or the people who love them), there are plenty of faux-fur capelets at your disposal. Girlshop offers a pink leopard-print capelet by Wendy Hil ($193). If the pink is too faux-looking, you may want to opt for the more traditional brown leopard capelet by Lulu Guinness ($214). This elegant wrap ties with a satin ribbon and is as classy as it is sexy. Not a fan of felines? Check out the Dalmatian-print capelet by Trina Turk ($205) at Olive and Bette’s for an ultra-soft, super-cute miniature cape with a hot-pink satin lining. For something more subtle and less daring, perhaps a white faux-fur capelet ($64.99) from Banana Republic is more suitable. It comes with a jeweled brooch for an added touch of sophistication.

Finally, if you have to brave the elements, you might as well do it in style with the black cotton trench capelet ($395) from Burberry. With the traditional Burberry pattern on the inside, this upscale miniature cape is sure to keep you on fashion’s cutting edge while your shoulders stay dry.

Where to find it:

• Anthropologie, 300 Boylston Street, Chestnut Hill, (617) 559-9995; 799 Boylston Street, Boston, (617) 262-0545; www.anthropologie.com

• Banana Republic, various locations; www.bananarepublic.com

• Burberry, 2 Newbury Street, Boston, (617) 236-1000; www.burberry.com

• Bebe, Copley Place Mall, 100 Huntington Avenue, Boston, (617) 267-2323; Atrium Mall, 300 Boylston Street, Chestnut Hill, (617) 928-1508; www.bebe.com

• Girlshop, www.girlshop.com

• Olive and Bette’s, www.oliveandbettes.com