Deep Black Rococo Cloak with Pelerine

Deep Black Rococo Cloak with Pelerine in Cotton Moleskin

Historical Pattern and 18th-Century Fashion

This historical cloak transports you back to the elegant era of the eighteenth century, specifically the height of the Rococo period (circa 1730–1789). During this time, long traveling cloaks featuring a fixed or detachable pelerine (a short shoulder capelet) were an indispensable part of any gentleman’s, officer’s, or wealthy citizen’s wardrobe. Historically, this outer garment served primarily to protect expensive silk and velvet coats from dust, rain, and cold during long journeys in open carriages or on horseback. The pelerine over the shoulders provided a strategic double layer of fabric where rain would hit the hardest, while the sleeveless design allowed the wearer to quickly throw the cloak over the bulky coat sleeves and massive turned-back cuffs typical of the era.

Material, Cut, and Visual Details

As clearly demonstrated in the product photographs mna_1611x.jpg (front view), mna_1611x_01.jpg (side profile), and mna_1611x_02.jpg (back view), the cloak features a generous, sweeping drape and a deep black hue. It is crafted from heavy-duty moleskin (100% cotton). This specific fabric was chosen for its excellent qualities – it is a heavy cotton cloth with a gently brushed face, creating a matte, velvet-like texture that beautifully mimics period woolens while remaining breathable and easy to care for. The cloak's defining features are the permanently attached pelerine capelet, which measures approximately 45 cm / 17.7 inches in length to drape elegantly over the upper arms, and the wide, prominent turn-down collar designed to block cold winds.

Please note that the purple and red Rococo coat with metal buttons worn underneath the cloak in the photos is not included in the delivery – this product consists solely of the cloak with its pelerine.

Technical Specifications of the Cloak

Practical Application and Modern Safety Warnings

This Rococo cloak is an ideal accessory for historical reenactment, theatrical productions, period parades, film sets, LARP, or historical dance events. Thanks to its versatile and elegant design, it perfectly complements both military uniforms and civilian noble attire. For modern safety reasons, however, we must emphasize that this is a purely textile costume accessory with no protective properties. The cloak contains no padding or metallic defense elements and is not suitable for historical European martial arts (HEMA), combat training, or full-contact reenactment battles (Buhurt), as the loose fabric could easily snag an opponent's weapon, leading to falls or serious injury.

What You Should Never Do with the Cloak

• Never approach open flames: The brushed surface of cotton moleskin can trap flying sparks from campfires, which may cause the fabric to catch fire or burn holes.
• Never use harsh chemical bleaches: Using chlorine or aggressive stain removers risks permanently ruining the deep black color and creating unsightly spots.
• Never store the uniform while damp: If the cloak gets wet from rain or sweat during an event, let it dry completely on a hanger before storing it in a wardrobe to prevent mold and mildew growth.

Care and Maintenance Instructions

To ensure this cloak lasts for years and maintains its premium appearance, we highly recommend professional dry cleaning. If you choose to clean it at home, wash it exclusively by hand in cold water (maximum 30°C / 86°F) using a mild liquid detergent designed for dark or black fabrics. Never place this garment into a clothes dryer. After washing, reshape it and let it air dry completely on a sturdy wooden hanger. Iron only from the reverse side (inside out) on a low-to-medium heat setting to avoid flattening the delicate brushed nap on the face of the moleskin fabric.

Recommended Accessories for a Complete Historical Set

To achieve a fully authentic historical look, we recommend combining this cloak with other mid-to-late 18th-century garments and accessories. An excellent choice is a matching Rococo justacorps coat in purple or blue, a classic 1750s tricorn hat, an elegant walking cane with an ornate handle, and a high-quality replica of a Prussian or French infantry smallsword from the Seven Years' War era.

This Coat with pelerine can be made in various colors according to these sample cards. Please note the requested color(s) into your order, in the field for your comment. Please specify always (1) the number of the sample card, (2) letter of the color, and (3) description of the colour (Example: 04-F-blue). If you choose a fabric with different composition, the price may change. Possible price change will be consulted with you before processing the order.

This Coat with pelerine is available in standard sizes or can be made exactly to your measure at no additional charge. In the latter case please fill in this measurement chart after finishing your order.

Information about cleaning and care.