A witch's cloak is used for various purposes, including costume for Halloween or themed events, as well as for practical purposes such as keeping warm and dry in inclement weather. It is also used in spiritual practices and ceremonies, providing a sense of protection and grounding. It serves as an empowering garment that connects the wearer to the energy of the earth and their spiritual path.

The hood is part of the witch's cloak, and it can be used to conceal the face of the person wearing the cloak. It adds to the mystery and can be used for dramatic effects when thrown back revealing the face of the witch. It also provides protection from the elements when outdoors. Typically, a witch's cloak is long and flowing, which adds to the dramatic effect of the witch's appearance. The length and flow of the material can be used for theatrical effects if the cloak is worn during rituals or ceremonies. The flowy design also adds an air of authority to the person wearing it, making it more intimidating.

Dark colors are preferred when designing a witch's cloak, with black being the most common. The use of dark colors adds to the mysterious aura of the witch, making it more intimidating. Dark colors are also associated with power and authority, which is why they are preferred in this design. Some witch cloaks have embellishments like pentagrams, runes, or other mystical symbols added to them. These give the cloak a more personal touch and may have been added for protection or as a sign of the witch's affiliation. Such embellishments can also be used to convey information about the wearer to those who understand the symbols used.​