This long black 100% cashmere coat is a favourite found on a freezing day out in Toronto op-shopping with son Max a few years ago. It is total quality as a Birger Christensen and a testament for natural fibres and superior design.

The coat was in perfect condition when I purchased it (for $120) but this winter when I got it out of the airtight winter suitcase, I noticed the fleece on the cuffs and collars had a couple of small bare spots. Not insect damage, perhaps age. I used a permanent marker to blacken the spots and that camouflaged them effectively.

While in Warwick last week, I couldn’t resist a quick visit to the op shop and found two pieces of wool fabric for $3 each. This red and charcoal herringbone weave square metre was ideal to turn into a wrap collar, which was an easy way to add interest to the plain back coat without interfering with its integrity. This combination was nice and warm to wear to the Night Noodle Markets at Southbank in Brisbane. 

To make the wrap, fringe the cut edges and trim to ensure they are straight. Fold in quarters then cut (on the diagonal) to the centre from one of the corners. Use an offcut to secure the back of this cut and zigzag the edges. Use some of the loose threads and trimmings, a button and a large safety pin to make a clip to secure the cape. You can wear the cape in a multitude of ways by playing with it. If you are slim, it can even work as a skirt over tights.