Best way to measure a cape?

igotbuttons

igotbuttons

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Hello everyone -

I have 2 capes (vintage, I believe) that I'd like to list on eBay within the next few days. What is the best way to measure a cape to ascertain a general size?

First one has a matching belt and buttons at the left shoulder:


2cape2.jpg


2cape6.jpg


2cape7.jpg


2cape3.jpg


2cape5.jpg


Next is a reversible that I need to make a quick repair to (just need to replace the hook and eye closure at the throat):

Light side:

cape7.jpg


cape2.jpg


dark side:

cape5.jpg


cape3.jpg


cape4.jpg


detail of arm/hand hole:

cape6.jpg


cape1.jpg


Detail of area where original tag was removed. I believe that the previous owner did this because she liked the lighter side over the darker side.

Additionally, can anyone help me date these capes?

Thanks for any help! Patti
 
In general, capes are "one size fits most" or one size "fits a whole range of sizes.

- I would definitely put length (top of shoulder to hem - bonus if there is actually a shoulder seam that sits centered on top as it makes life easier).

- put it on the floor/table, and spread the cape out as far as you can just as if you were measuring a dress bust "laid flat and pulled taut but not stretched). On the second cape, place it with the two sides touching eachother and measure across the "bust" that way. Don't panic if its way bigger than the dress bust size measure you think it would fit. State that the measurement is with "sides touching" and point out that in the display photo you don't have the sides completely touching (i know that might sound like you are stating the obvious but one never knows).

- the first one, measure it across the bust like you would a dress, the length, and i might measure along the bottom "hemline".

well..i am sure that you will find a better explanation but thats what i have done.
 
ps - show the first cape belted! and if so, give the measurement of the waist of your dress form. If the gal is a lot bigger the cape might not give the same drapey effect and she needs to know that.
 
l usually give radius and diameter and that ussually satisfies most people!
 
Let us know when you place it on eaby. I really would love to get that last one for my mom for Xmas.....
 
Thanks for your help, everyone! I'd like to get the capes listed before the end of this week and I'll post the links when I get them on eBay. I have to take my turn at the Antiques place tomorrow and it's usually not very busy in there AT ALL so I can get the measurements there and take pics of more items.

Patti
 
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