What was a traditional capote like?
The capote – a wrap coat made from an Hbc blanket – was a common garment among the first nations. Many, many versions of the capote were made, and variations in style were common: with or without hood, embroidered, beaded or with leather fringing. In fact personalization was the norm. The Mtis style became perhaps the best known. Hooded, embellished with fringing and closed with a bright Assomption sash, the coat became a staple for Hbc’s explorers and traders as well. Easy to make, warm and water-repellent, the capote was made for the Canadian climate.
