How do you wear elbow length gloves without looking weird or like you’re cosplaying the 1900s’? Gloves are fun, and I’m not talking about winter mittens, but sleek, elegant, elbow length gloves that match your outfit. It’s like playing dress up as adults!
But when can we really wear gloves? It seems they’re only a special occasion kind of thing– weddings, prom, or when wearing an old-timey costume. How can we make elbow length gloves fashionable again and what are the best ways to style them?
When Elbow Length Gloves First Came Into Style
Elbow length gloves, also known as an opera glove or evening glove, first gained popularity in the late 17th century during the Regency/Napoleonic period amongst royalty and high society.
They were a symbol of refinement and and were considered a staple for formal events, evening soirees, and high-society gatherings. They faded out of popularity during the early and mid-Victorian periods, but made a roaring come back in the late 19th century with fashion icons like Coco Chanel bringing back the trend.
The glamor of Hollywood in the 1940s and 1950s further solidified the position of elbow length gloves in the world of fashion, as iconic actresses like Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly frequently wore them, leaving an indelible mark on the collective fashion consciousness.
Elbow Length Gloves Today
In the contemporary fashion world, elbow length gloves have experienced a resurgence in popularity, becoming a go-to accessory for those seeking to add a touch of elegance and flair to their outfits. Designers have reinvented these gloves to suit various occasions, and every once in a while we get to see elbow-length gloves make an appearance on high fashion models on the runway or adorn the arms of celebrities on red carpets. Embracing the vintage charm and timelessness, fashion enthusiasts now combine elbow length gloves with both formal and casual ensembles, adding a classic touch to modern, edgy styles.
Popular Fabrics For Elbow Length Gloves
Modern elbow length gloves come in a wide array of fabrics, each lending its unique charm and appeal. Some popular options include:
Satin Gloves
Exuding classic elegance, satin gloves provide a luxurious sheen that complements formal attire and evening gowns flawlessly.
Lace Gloves
Delicate and feminine, lace gloves add a romantic touch to any outfit, making them a favorite for weddings and other special occasions.
Leather Gloves
Infusing a bold and contemporary vibe, leather elbow length gloves are perfect for making a fashion-forward statement and are often seen in street-style ensembles.
Velvet Gloves
With their soft texture and rich appearance, velvet gloves bring a touch of opulence to winter looks and formal events.
Rubber/Latex
A bit more edgy and risque, rubber and latex gloves may originally be considered fetish-wear but can pair well with a simple dress or night out ‘fit and will take your look up a notch with a bold and sexy aesthetic.
How To Wear Elbow Length Gloves
While elbow length gloves can add to so many different outfits, knowing how to wear them is essential to achieving a flawless look. Here are some of the best ways to pair your elbow length gloves.
Formal Affairs
For elegant events, pair your elbow length gloves with a sleeveless or strapless gown. For a timeless classic look, a little black dress paired with satin elbow length gloves exudes class and sophistication, reminiscent of Audrey Hepburn’s iconic style. Accessorize with pearl jewelry and a sleek updo for the ultimate classic look.
Casual Chic
For a casual yet stylish look, combine elbow length gloves with short body-con dress or a fitted top and skinny jeans. This juxtaposition of formal and casual elements creates a trendy and bold outfit. For a contemporary twist, match leather elbow length gloves with a tailored jumpsuit or a midi skirt and blouse combo. Add statement heels and a bold lip color to complete the edgy ensemble.
Vintage Glam
Channel your inner retro diva by pairing lace elbow length gloves with a vintage-inspired A-line dress. Add pearls and a chic updo to complete the old Hollywood glamour. On your special day or other fancy black-tie event, embrace the romance of lace or satin elbow length gloves that complement your dreamy, princess gown. They will have you walking around all night feeling like Cinderella at a ball.
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Best Elbow Length Gloves
Lansian Long Opera Party Gloves
These satin elbow length gloves by Lansian are perfect for formal occasions. They feature a stretchy and comfortable fit, with soft and silky fabric that is very breathable. A classic, simple design that comes in several different colors and can match with 1920s’ style flapper outfits or modern day evening wear dresses.
Key Highlights:
- 90% Nylon, 10% Spandex
- 22-inch length
- Pull on closure
Women’s Wedding Bridal Mesh Tulle Gloves
These delicate sheer elbow length gloves provide a super delicate and feminine finishing touch to any ensemble. The soft and breathable fabric ensures a comfortable fit for all day wear. They are a simple accessory that add a dramatic and elegant vibe to any occasion.
Key Highlights:
- Highly-crafted sheer mesh
- 27.5-inch length
- Can still use touch phones
Campsis Floral Lace Gloves Long Lace Gloves
Dreamy lace elbow length gloves by Campsis evoke a sense of vintage charm. These gloves are exquisitely crafted with intricate lace patterns, making them an ideal choice for weddings and special events.
Key Highlights:
- Polyester and lace
- 19.7-inch length
- Floral design
QECEPEI Womens Long Leather Gloves
Adding a contemporary edge to your look, these chic leather elbow length gloves feature smooth lining and precise stitching, making a bold and luxurious statement. Its material contains sheepskin to maintain the natural texture of the genuine leather which has decent strength, suppleness, and lasting comfort.
Key Highlights:
- High quality, genuine leather
- 19.6-inch length
- Touch screen friendly
DooWay Women Long Velvet Gloves
Soft and opulent, DooWay presents these velvet elbow length gloves. With a plush texture, these gloves elevate winter outfits and add a touch of glamour to formal events. Thickness of this material is moderate, which looks expensive, also not too thick to feel hot.
Key Highlights:
- Authentic Italian velvet
- 24-inch length
- Thick, high quality but breathable
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