Can't escape the cape this fall

Capes and ponchos make a grand entrance this season as retailers hope a return to the ’70s rescues them in brutal climes and financial times.

Few of them evoke Superman, Zorro or old nurses’ uniforms, and most are affordable: under $60 at JCPenney (shown) and $200 at Nordstrom.

“Anything goes — cashmere, crochet, knits, puffers,” says Tracy Taylor of Net-a-Porter. “Whether you’re a minimalist or an eternal hippie, there’s a cape for you.”

“It’s easy-on, easy-off, great for layering,” says Cyndie Washburn-Nester, women’s trend director at JCPenney.

Avoid garments wearing you rather than the reverse by ending tents at fingertips and above knees. “You don’t want to look like you’ve been swallowed by a blanket,” Taylor says.

Strike a balance with floppy hats and slim jeans, leggings or pencil skirts — with boots and a clutch or cross-body bag (underneath), she says. “Keep it polished.”