Every year, as spring approaches, my eyes start wandering toward the less bulky items in my closet. I'm tired of my sweaters, done with scarves, and so over jackets. Fortunately, I live in Florida, so there are plenty of days where I can wear a kicky dress and cardi and be plenty warm. But what about those of you living in colder climates? What can be done?

Never fear, Posh is here! In a cape!

As Mrs. Beckham shows us (and as Brooke Shields and Lucy Liu fail to show us), a cape can be a fabulously chic way to ward off the winter chill when you just can't bare to wear your winter coat for another day. However, it can also backfire horribly. Here's how you can pull off Posh's look and keep your cape from becoming fashion kryptonite:

• Stay simple. A cape paired with a scarf paired with matching boots and a luggage-sized handbag equals disaster. Your best bet is to let your cape be a bit of a statement on its own -- sexy black sunglasses and sleek leather boots will be a nice finishing touch, though.
  
  
• Be chic. There's a reason Posh wears something tailored under her cape -- it looks sleek and sophisticated. A less form-fitting outfit is just not flattering and could give you the overall effect of wearing a bunch of layered sweaters borrowed from Bea Arthur. The cape is all about looking cosmopolitan, so wearing frumpy layers or flashy accouterments will only hinder your hotness.
  
  
• Remain season-appropriate. Resist the urge to use a cape to cover up a springy frock -- a cape is still a heavy article of clothing, and should be worn over heavier fabrics, such as tweed or leather in order to retain its elegance.