A-line, swing and trapeze silhouettes have been been steadily growing in popularity during the past few seasons, from the breezy dresses of summer '07 to the retro-fabulous swing coats and capes in stores now. Howevever, this shape is not particularly easy to wear, especially if you're not built like a runway model. There is one possibility, though - while the voluminous dresses might best be left to the leanest and leggiest girls, everyone can get into in the swing of things with a stylish little jacket.

Wearing volume wisely is always a matter of proportion. If you're going big on top, wear something fitted on the bottom, and vice versa. Therefore, when rocking a swing coat or cape, it's probably time to pull out the skinny jeans and pencil skirts (this is a excellent look if you're busty or otherwise want to draw attention away from your upper body). The only exception to this rule applies when your jacket or cape is very cropped and hits above your waistline - then you can go a little looser on the bottom, as long as your midsection is well-defined.

This is one trend that is incredibly versatile, with options ranging from casual daytime looks done in cotton twill or tweed to stunning sequined or satin evening numbers, swing jackets or capes can go everywhere you do. In fact, why not think about an elegant velvet or brocade number as a topper for your holiday cocktail dresses? For instance, this black and gold jacket by Michael Kors would certainly stand out in the sea of pashminas and stoles - and you'll be channeling some classic 1940s glamour.