[Source] A cape was a long item of clothing that fell loosely over the shoulders from the neckband. In many humanoid societies, wearing a cape was a sign of nobility and power. That was notably the case on the planet of Serenno. For that reason, the life-supporting armor of Darth Vader was equipped with an armorweave cape, as a way to announce his special status as Emperor Palpatine's personal enforcer. Capes could also visually enlarge their wearers' silhouette to produce an intimidating effect.