Hi Nellie, with Peeresses robes there are a series of tiny hooks on the Cape/Robe which attatches to a series of eyes along the soulders of the Kirtle.For the Queen the best way to explain is, that there is a bolero type jacket, made of ermine, with the robe attached. the Royal Duchesses/Princesses have a similar arrangement,hooks and eyes accross the shoulder, with ermine/silk straps that go under the arms, and are then hidden by the gold Gallions/tassles.
hope this helps, regards Colin