t's easy to master the art of proper cold-weather dressing when you've lived in New England all your life. As the seasons go by, amassing a collection of cozy outerwear and accessories becomes a necessary part of surviving stylishly.

Have you heard of the multi-coat rule? We have such a long winter here, it's just not fair to have to put on the same thing every morning. A girl has to have options. This year, I decided I wanted something different, not another bulky sleeping bag to hibernate in. I needed a cape.

After trying a long gray cloak at the Design Hive that turned out a touch too Dracula, I was lucky to find the perfect swishy-yet-substantial topper at Haberdash Vintage. It's a thick, oatmeal-colored wool with just the right peaked collar, big drop pockets, and a belt. Plus it's practical for day to night, and super warm. On a visit to New York City last weekend, I was even stopped for a street-style shot by the European fashion site From Monday to Fashion. Fancy!

Capes have been around since medieval times, and now they are a major trend for fall and winter 2010. There were many different versions on the runways at Fashion Week, but my favorites were from Marc Jacobs, Thakoon, and Rebecca Taylor. If you can find a good one, you still have plenty of time to enjoy it. It's only February.

Off the Rack

Does anyone remember Avenue Victor Hugo? Sorry, but Borders just does not measure up. It's been six years since the stalwart secondhand bookshop shut its doors, leaving the Back Bay all but used-bookless, but a little birdie tells me Raven Used Books (with one location already at 52B JFK Street in Harvard Square) is opening a branch at 263 Newbury St.

If you're already a fan of thrifting at Boomerangs in Jamaica Plain and West Roxbury, you'll be glad to know that it's come up with a new concept for the South End, Boomerangs Special Edition, featuring a higher-end offering of designer resale. The new location is at 1407 Washington St.