How To Get and Equip Capes in Minecraft Java and Bedrock Edition?

Showcase some rare collectibles with this comprehensive guide on how to get and equip capes in Minecraft Java and Bedrock Edition.

How To Get and Equip Capes in Minecraft Java and Bedrock
The Migrator Cape with Elytra in Minecraft Java Edition. (Image via Mojang Studios)

Capes are rare cosmetics for Minecraft Java and Bedrock Edition. These items are rarely given as prizes for attending certain events or completing various tasks in the game. Back then, only the most dedicated players could get their hands on a cape for their character skin in Minecraft. However, Mojang has given away a plethora of capes that other players can easily acquire. It’s only a matter of joining limited-time events.

Despite this, the premium feel of owning a cape remains intact. This is because some capes are still exclusive to specific events, migrations, or legacy players. This makes them a coveted status symbol in the community.

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How To Get a Cape in Minecraft

How To Get a Cape in Minecraft
The Migrator Cape in Minecraft was given to players back in 2021. (Image via Mojang Studios)

A Minecraft cape is a commemorative item and is only given away through limited-time events. Some examples include live conventions and collaboration events. This means you will have to keep your eyes peeled for when Mojang announces an event that gives away a prestigious cape for participants.

Fortunately, everyone gets their first cape in Minecraft Bedrock Edition, called the Pan Cape. Players who migrated their legacy accounts to Microsoft back in 2021 will also get the Migrator Cape. If you bought both Java and Bedrock Edition on the same account prior to June 2022, you get the Vanilla Cape. Most of the capes are no longer obtainable. Some of them are exclusive only to employees of Mojang or those who have made a significant contribution to the development of Minecraft.

Alternatively, you can also download unofficial Minecraft mods to get yourself a cape in the game. There are a ton of cape mods for the game online. Some can even be more elaborate and creative than what Mojang offers. However, other players will not be able to see your cape if you are playing online. Additionally, depending on the server you are playing on, you might not be allowed to use mods.

Also Read: Minecraft: How To Install Cobblemon Mod

How To Equip Capes in Minecraft for All Versions

How To Equip Capes in Minecraft Java Edition
Your cape collection in Minecraft Java Edition is displayed here. (Image via Mojang Studios)

The process of equipping a Minecraft cape for Java and Bedrock editions can vary. Here is how you can do it:

Java Edition

You can check out and equip the capes you own in Minecraft Java Edition through the game launcher. Here is a step-by-step process:

  • Head to the Skins tab.
  • Click the “Add to Library” option below your active skin in the game.
  • Hover over to your Minecraft skin on the right side click the triple dot below the Use button then select Edit.
  • Choose the cape you want to equip.
  • While you’re at it, name the skin template.
  • Once you are done customizing your character skin, click Save and Use.
  • Play the game.

Once you are in-game, you should see your cape. You can check this by pressing F5 on your keyboard to turn on the third-person view.

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Bedrock Edition

How To Equip Cape in Minecraft Bedrock Edition
The Pan Cape in Minecraft Bedrock Edition. (Image via Mojang Studios)

To equip a cape in Minecraft Bedrock Edition, you need to open the game itself and do your customization there. Follow the instructions below:

  • In the game menu, select the Dressing Room button below your character.
  • Select the red cape icon on the left corner of the screen.
  • Select from the list of the capes you own in the game.
  • Click the Equip button on the right side of the screen.
  • Exit the customization screen and head back to the main menu.
  • Play the game.

You should see your cape immediately at the back of your Minecraft skin in the main menu.

Also Read: Is Minecraft Mace Worth It?

How To Equip Cape on Elytra

How To Equip Cape on Elytra
The Migrator Cape with an Elytra in Minecraft Java Edition. (Image via Mojang Studios)

When you equip a cape in Minecraft, your Elytra’s design will automatically match your cape. This is a nice addition that makes these premium items more visually distinctive and personalized. This adds an extra layer of uniqueness to your character. This subtle yet stylish feature allows players to showcase their capes in both grounded and airborne gameplay. It’s also a good way to prevent clipping problems for the cape and Elytra in the game.

However, if you prefer the default Elytra appearance, you’ll need to remove your cape. To do this, simply do the same steps you did on equipping the cape. However, this time, you need to disable it so it won’t show in the game. Your Elytra should be back to its default color once you remove your cape in Minecraft.


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