Tabard

Tabard (most probably, like tippet, ultimately from Lat. tapete, 'hangings'), a heavy outer coat of rough cloth once worn by poor people; also a loose cloak without sleeves worn by knights over their armour, usually embroidered with their arms—Chaucer's cote-armour. The latter use survives in the distinctive coat with short sleeves, worn by heralds and pursuivants, emblazoned with the royal arms.