

To use the word cloak correctly, use it for full-length or calf-length outer garments. However, cloaks are popular among cosplayers, costumers and historical re-enactors. Today, cloaks and capes are rarely seen in everyday fashion. The wealthy and royals also wore embroidered and embellished cloaks of fine wool, silk, satin, and velvets to indicate their status in and out of court.
#Cloaks and capes seattle wa full#
On the other hand, the wealthy and royalty wore full length fine wool cloaks to travel. While peasants wore homespun woolen cloaks that came to their calves – to be practical, so they didn’t drag in the mud. In Medieval and Renaissance times and before, woolen hooded cloaks were worn for warmth by commoners, the wealthy and royalty. Raven Fox Capes and Cloaks luxury hooded cloaks with pockets shown here in riding hood red.

Meanwhile, the word “cloak” has come to also mean to conceal - testament to the idea that cloaks are designed to wrap all the way around the wearer. Cloak comes from the French word “cloche,” meaning “bell.” Thus, cloak and “cloche” suggest a wrap narrower at the top and flaring out at the bottom. They typically have enough fabric to be closed for warmth and will protect from the elements. Capes also don’t have hoods most of the time and they don’t necessarily close in the front.Ĭloaks, on the other hand, fall to below to the knees and are often floor length. Some superhero capes are the exception to the length rule - modern versions of Superman’s cape nearly touch the ground. Capes are typically shorter, falling to the hips or thighs. So those flappy things super heroes wear are capes. As I delved deeper into the difference between capes and cloaks I found… Capes Tend to be Shorter Cloaks are Full-Length or Calf Length If it has sleeves, then it’s a robe or coat. “Cape” is often the word people use for both capes and cloaks.Įveryone agrees that both capes and cloaks are made of a single piece of fabric that hangs loose and doesn’t include sleeves. I decided to investigate, though frankly, I think the word “cloak” is becoming obsolete for casual use. To my annoyance, one of my friends pointed out that what I am calling a cape is technically a cloak.
