I understand that modern outer layers are more functional. A leather jacket, for example, can be dressed up or down so as to be worn in a variety of situations. It is also better at keeping you warm.
However, I think capes/cloaks are more aesthetically pleasing garments. It also feels good to have the fabric flowing around you as you walk. But what do you think?
I have a wool plaid cape I got from a woman’s estate sale but it isn’t necessarily gendered, though as a man I haven’t been brave enough to wear it outside of the house yet except to a Burns supper where I got a lot of compliments. My coworkers are used to seeing me wear it on video throughout winter
Edit: after some googling it may be a cloak and not a cape since it is full length. I wear it as a sweater replacement