A hooded cloak is the single most useful piece of medieval and fantasy clothing you can own. It goes over almost any outfit, changes your character in seconds and keeps you warm when the sun goes down. Here's how to choose the right one and wear it comfortably all day.
In short
- A cloak is long and full; a cape is shorter, sometimes on one shoulder only.
- Mid-calf to ankle length is the most practical for a faire.
- Fasten it slightly forward of the throat so it doesn't pull.
- Cotton-linen suits most of the year; velvet is for cooler days.
Cloak or cape?
The words overlap, but generally a cloak is long and full, often with a hood, and can wrap around the whole body. A cape is shorter. It might reach the waist, sit across the shoulders like the Viking Faux Fur Shoulder Cape, or hang from one shoulder like the Velvet One-Shoulder Cape.
How long should a cloak be?
Measure from the top of your shoulder down to where you want the hem. Then compare it with the cloak's length:
- Velvet Hooded Cloak: 100 cm from shoulder to hem
- Hooded Cloak with Leaf Brooch: 120 cm
- Hooded Cloak with Belt and Pouch: about 130 cm
- Hooded Ranger Cloak: 140 cm
For a full day on grass and dirt paths, a hem between mid-calf and ankle is easiest. A cloak that touches the ground looks dramatic in photos, but it collects mud and catches under your heels.
How to fasten it so it doesn't pull
- Tie or pin it slightly forward, on the collarbone rather than on the throat. The weight then sits on your shoulders, not your neck.
- Try the shoulder pin. Historically, many cloaks were pinned at the right shoulder to leave the sword arm free. It's still the most comfortable way to wear a heavy cloak.
- Throw one side back over your shoulder when you need a free arm for eating, shopping or holding a drink.
- Use a clasp or brooch. The leaf-brooch cloak comes with its own green leaf at the throat.
Hood up or hood down?
Hood up for photos, cold wind and dramatic entrances. Hood down at shows, so the people behind you can see.
Which fabric?
- Cotton-linen: breathable and easy to care for. Good from spring to autumn.
- Velvet: rich-looking and warm. Best for cool days and evening events.
- Faux fur: a short shoulder cape adds warmth exactly where the wind hits.
Shop cloaks and capes
See all cloaks and capes.
One cloak, many characters
- Ranger: green or grey, over a vest and bracers.
- Rogue: black, hood up, worn closed.
- Elf: green with a leaf brooch.
- Wizard or witch: velvet in black, blue or wine red.
- Viking: a fur-look cape over the cloak's shoulders.
Care and safety
- Let mud dry, then brush it off before washing.
- Hang the cloak to air after a long day.
- By the campfire, gather the cloak in or pin it back so it does not trail.
Questions people ask
What is the difference between a cloak and a cape?
A cloak is usually long and full and can wrap around you; a cape is shorter and sits on the shoulders or hangs from one shoulder.
How do I stop my cloak choking me?
Fasten it lower and further forward, on the collarbone, or pin it at one shoulder so the weight rests on your shoulders.
