Although they've lost some of
their strict etiquette, gloves have adapted to current trends, reflecting the
influence of pop culture. They're versatile enough to be used in both formal
and casual looks, and haute-couture collections and the influence of social
media have driven the trend, which manifests itself in a variety of styles.
Gloves have become integrated into urban style, becoming a key accessory to
enhance even the wintriest looks. Today, the options are endless, from classic
leather gloves in dark tones for a formal style to bolder, more colourful
versions for a casual touch.
Men's gloves have evolved from a status symbol in
ancient times to a functional fashion accessory today. Originally, they were
worn by warriors and workers for protection, but over time, they became an
emblem of royalty and elegance. In the Middle Ages, their use became
widespread, and they became a luxury item, especially those made of leather and
silk, which were often decorated and perfumed. Interestingly, during this
period, it was not permitted for a person to have gloved hands in the presence
of a superior or a person of higher rank. At the end of the 17th century, the
ostentation of gloves diminished, giving way to more practical designs adapted
to everyday life and modern needs. Long gloves, known as "opera
gloves," became popular among the aristocracy as a symbol of status and
refinement between the 18th and 19th centuries. They were worn not only for
elegance but also as a hygiene measure to protect against contagious diseases.
Socially, one would be expected to remove one's
gloves before greeting someone. Men are required to remove their gloves; for
women, it is optional, although it was often considered more elegant to greet
with a bare hand. The exception is usually made when wearing long gloves; in
this case, it is understandable to keep them on. Gloves have practically the
same "regulations" as the wearing of a hat. It is correct and polite
to remove gloves before entering a church or temple, a hospital, or simply a
house you are visiting, before a show at a theatre, etc.
From the last century until now, with the
popularisation of informal fashion and the use of technology, the use of gloves
has been reduced to specific activities or as a fashion accessory. The ones
made of leather were the most used for protection and hunting. Silk gloves
gained popular status for high-class events and as a symbol of opulence. Wool
pieces became essential for protection from the cold, especially in Nordic
countries. Fingerless gloves became popular in the 1920s and 1980s as part of
flapper and punk fashion, and as mentioned prior, long and elegant opera gloves
were reserved for formal events and galas. Today, hand pieces as such remain a
fashion accessory, whether for their usefulness in cold weather or as part of
fashionable attire.
I am not a big fan of the cold, but I do love
wearing gloves, especially leather ones. They always keep your hands warm but
above all, they offer a sophisticated flair, chicness, and they always elevate
your look no matter what you are wearing. Mine are quite unusual for men,
featuring a bolt-green colour giving a unique touch to the outfit. I am wearing
a black sweater with details in yellow on the neck and cuffs. The blue tartan
shirt underneath looks beautiful in contrast and the ivory pinstripe denim adds
some light to an overall dark outfit. The shoes are one of my favourite pieces
of footwear due to their original design featuring something between a lace-up
shoe and a loafer. These are black with oxblood details, and I have styled them
with black and yellow pinstripe socks. The black-belted coat matches the
sunglasses, the leather vintage briefcase, and the brimless cap; adding some
colour and matching the blue shirt, we have this long and soft scarf with
fringes.
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