Cloak vs Cape
The distinction between a cloak and a cape comes down to their individual appearance and purpose. While capes are typically worn for fashion, cloaks are designed to protect the wearer from elements such as rain and dirt. Cloaks are single-piece garments that cover the top portion of a person entirely, whereas capes are generally shorter and cover only the back. In ancient civilizations, capes and cloaks were important pieces of clothing, often worn to indicate one’s rank in administration. Scholars and influential people commonly wore them, with capes being more popular among ladies and cloaks among men.
Key Takeaways
- A cape is typically worn for fashion purposes, while a cloak is designed to protect the wearer from the elements.
- Capes are generally shorter than cloaks, with cloaks sometimes reaching the ground and covering the wearer’s entire torso.
- In ancient times, both capes and cloaks were important garments that signified an individual’s rank in society.
What is a Cloak?
A cloak is a long garment that often runs down to the calf of a person, with some even touching the ground. It can serve as a complete dress over whatever the individual is wearing. In judiciary and academics, cloaks are often worn for a distinguished look. In the past, cloaks served the purpose of an overcoat, providing warmth and protection from rain and cold winds. They may or may not have hoods and are typically fastened at the neck. Cloaks are also sleeveless, though in certain instances, there may be slits for hands to pass through.
What is a Cape?
A cape is a garment that is typically worn for fashion purposes. It is generally a shorter version of a cloak, and although some authors discuss the two garments interchangeably, the longer dress is never referred to as a cape. Capes have no sleeves and remain in place on the torso, fastened around the neck. They are usually designed to cover the back of the wearer and are similar in appearance to a poncho. However, a poncho is removed like a pullover, while a cape can be opened by unfastening the fastener at the neck. Capes are usually longer than ponchos, and they primarily cover the back. Long capes are rare, but examples can be seen in the costumes of superheroes like Superman and Batman.
What is the difference between Cloak and Cape?
Both capes and cloaks are worn over regular clothing, but there are several key differences:
- Length: A cape is shorter than a cloak, which can be much longer, sometimes reaching the ground.
- Body Coverage: A cape usually covers only the back, while a cloak covers the front and back.
- Fastening: Both capes and cloaks are fastened at the neck, but capes remain perched on the torso, while cloaks cover the entire torso.
- Hood: Capes may not have a hood or may have one for purely decorative purposes, while cloaks typically have a functional hood to protect the head and face from the elements.
- Decorations: Capes are often embellished with beads and other decorative materials, while cloaks are usually darker and may be decorated as the wearer desires.
- Sleeves: Both capes and cloaks are sleeveless, though cloaks may have slits for hands to pass through in certain cases.
- Purpose: Capes are typically worn as fashion accessories, while cloaks are designed to protect the wearer from the elements.
