Karen
- Mar 4, 2023
- 4 min read

Long Glove Revival, 2023

Updated: Mar 20, 2023

In the early 20th century, plain, wrist-length gloves in suede or leather were worn in the daytime by both men and women. Although the more simple lines of women's clothing in the post-war period dictated a more plain style glove, a wide variety of materials and colours were still available. The gauntlet glove was particularly fashionable in the '20s and '30s.

Long elbow-length opera gloves from the '40s to the '60s were a feature of women's dress. Decorated fabric gloves included fringes or tassels at the wrist or on the cuffs. Inserting gussets of lace at the back of the gloves or on the wrists was a popular thing to do. Other embellishments included edging the writs with ribbons and flowers - either real or artificial, embroidering the top of the gloves or the cuffs with gold, silver and colourful threads. Adding pearls, beadwork, or a monogram was also a thing.

Fast forward to 2022 and long gloves are definitely enjoying a revival - just look at the December issue of British Vogue; page after page models are photographed wearing a variety of long gloves in different colours, styles, designs and materials. And so far the trend is only gaining momentum; long gloves are considered cool by those in the know - see how @thephreshcode styles a funky pair from @driesvannoten and British Vogue have practically declared it the year of the glove - their January cover featured the iconic supermodel Iman not only wearing a uniquely designed long red glove, but it almost is the cover image. And most recently, Catherine, Princess of Wales showed up to the BAFTAs wearing long black opera gloves as part of her evening ensemble - need I say more?

Icon and Supermodel, Iman for British Vogue, January

2023. British Vogue.com

Catherine, Princess of Wales at the BAFTAs, 2023.

On how to style it:

Long gloves in an eye-catching colour or pattern look amazing with a short sleeved knit or solid colour t-shirt. Don't be afraid to wear them as part of an everyday outfit - think of them as you would any other accessory - like a favourite pair of earrings that you know complete an outfit - long gloves are not just for evening wear. That said, they do look stunning with sleeveless dresses, as Catherine has demonstrated. And a coat with three quarter length sleeves, poncho, or cape coat are just begging for a long beautiful glove to bridge the gap and finish it off. Wear them pulled up to the elbow or down and ruched around the wrist - and don't forget the jewellery - slip a cocktail ring or two over the outside of a glove and bracelets too! No matter how you choose to style them, don't miss an opportunity to be seen wearing them this coming season.

As a stylist and wardrobe consultant, I love it when you can reimagine a dress or an outfit, simply by updating it with different accessories or shoes - eliminating the need to buy even more clothes you don't actually need. Interestingly, the gown mentioned above that Catherine wore to the BAFTAs this year, is one she wore to the same event in 2019. The dress has been slightly altered on the shoulder, removing the corsage and replacing it with a knot and a train but it's the addition of the long satin black gloves and gold statement earrings that add dramatic effect this time around.

My clients are always amazed by what they already have in their wardrobes to wear right now, and long forgotten. A seasonal wardrobe audit is key to saving you time and money and with the help of my stylist's eye, I'll help you rediscover those hidden gems in your wardrobe and have you looking and feeling your best.

If you don't already own a pair of long gloves, leather or vegan leather are always a good choice. Heading into spring and summer however, look for ones in lighter-weight materials - think silk, satin, tulle or lace - perfect for warmer weather - especially when it comes to occasion dressing - the perfect excuse to try them out! See below for my pick of long gloves to invest in now and love forever. -KL Stylist.