Ladies Vintage 70's Hand Crochet Collarless Buttoned Down Cape/Shawl

Elegant cream crochet cape with button closure. Features two pockets. EXACT MEASUREMENTS Neck 16" Length30' (6) Button Closure No Flaws! Women’s capes and shawls have a long and rich history, stretching across cultures and centuries. Both garments serve as outer layers, providing warmth, modesty, and fashion — yet each has evolved with its own distinct style and social meaning. A cape is a sleeveless outer garment, usually fastened at the neck or shoulders, that drapes over the body. Ancient Times: Capes were practical garments in ancient Greece, Rome, and the Near East. The Roman paenula and Greek chlamys were cloak-like garments worn for warmth and travel. Women in particular used capes as modesty layers over tunics and dresses. Cultural & Symbolic Roles Capes: Often associated with drama, protection, and status — from queens and noblewomen to superheroes in modern pop culture. Shawls: Represent warmth, intimacy, and elegance — often tied to heritage (e.g., Indian pashmina, Spanish mantón, Jewish tallit, Mexican rebozo). ✨ In short: Capes evolved from protective cloaks to ceremonial and fashion statements. Shawls traveled from South Asian origins to global fashion staples, peaking in the 19th century and remaining timeless symbols of elegance and cultural identity. Tags: , cottage, retro, cottage, 70's, Vintage'