A cape is a sleeveless outer garment which is designed to fasten at the throat and fall down the back of the wearer. Typically, luxurious materials are used to manufacture a cape, which is intended to be more fashionable than functional as a general rule. A cape falls only partially down the back, unlike a cloak, which is full length and tends to cover more of the front as well. Cloaks are sometimes mistakenly referred to as capes, although capes are rarely confused with cloaks due to their short length.
The origins of the cape are ancient. The basic design of the garment is extremely simple, and could be easily made by people with limited sewing experience and tools. Many human cultures have a history of garments which resemble the cape, although early variants were probably intended to protect rather than ornament the wearer. As clothing has grown more complex, the cape has waxed and waned as a fashionable accessory, although it never disappears entirely.
The word for cape is derived from the Latin cappa, for a hooded cloak or long garment. The garment is also related to the chaperon, a complex piece of medieval headgear which began as a cape and evolved into something else entirely. Since the garment was traditionally worn by men, the term also came to be used to refer to a man acting as an escort to unmarried women.
In popular culture, the cape is closely associated with the superhero. The reason for the link between capes and superheroes is somewhat unclear, but it has persisted through multiple generations of comics and fans. Capes are also worn as a highly fashionable accessory, to provide protection to the neck and shoulders of a woman while still showing off the clothes she is wearing. Police and military forces have adapted the cape for the functional use of uniform protection, making capes from plastics and other waterproof materials.
When a cape is worn as a formal garment, it is usually known as a formal or evening cape. Evening capes are always made from lush materials, because they will be seen by attendees at an event. Satin, silk, and velvet are all common choices, with some fashion capes being made from lacy knit patterns or crochets as well. Such a cape may also be embroidered or beaded. In warmer weather, a capelet which barely covers the shoulders may be worn.