A place to start is deciding whether you are after short or long gloves. Gloves are steeped in tradition and etiquette, with the basic takeaway being the longer the glove, the more formal the occasion with shorties worn primarily during the day.
Mid-century glove icons!
But, the joy of vintage is mixing old pieces into current style and modern life. I love the look of opera length kid gloves in bright hues paired with the current cape trend for fall. It's the perfect pulled together casual look.
Neutrals are beyond chic. Princess Charlene of Monaco in her nude cape coat and nude leather gloves looks effortlessly glam.
For a truer vintage vintage aesthetic, a blond fur stole or vest mixed with turquoise 1950s knit opera gloves is warm and fabulous. Pair it with jeans and a cute top for a night out or the classic look of a stole over a dress, with a twist. But be kind - opt for a fantastic faux or purchase secondhand fur. Vintage shops are full of both!
Short gloves are more of a challenge to style and not look costume-y. Basic white are the classic and easiest to find, both in cotton and leather. White still works beautifully for bridal. However, opting for colored short gloves brings a vintage look into modern fashion. Instead of searching for mid-century gloves, be on the look out for different fabrics/textures from the 1920s-1940s.
This neutral pair of 1930s textured gloves adds to the soft, romantic, Gatsby-esque look without appearing as though she's on her way to a theme party.
Always a trendsetter, Blake goes for a monochromatic look on the runway with modern black leather gloves.
Large scale polka dot dresses in a modern cut have a 1940s feel. Paired with the short black leather gloves, it turns a classically sweet look edgy.
Find It: I find a higher quantity and at better prices in suburban shops. Junior League Thrift Shops are ground zero and from there scour local thrifts. Short gloves in silk/satin or cotton are easily found in all markets. For leather gloves and dressier long styles, head to consignment and charity shops in the fancier parts of town where the women who would have worn them live(d).
Buy It: LaCrasia Gloves in New York's Garment District is mecca for the glove lover. Not only are all of their gloves hand-made in house, but they will custom cut gloves to your hand measurements. A trip there is a one of a kind experience by the glove maker to 4 first ladies (including Jacqueline Kennedy and Michelle Obama) as well as celebrities such as Lady Gaga. The best part - the custom kid skin opera gloves cost less than the "off the rack" styles being sold at Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf's this season.
Pro Tip: Know your glove size before you go shopping for vintage or modern gloves. Need to measure? A great guide can be found here. Also, remember, when worn gloves are an integral part of the outfit. They're not to be taken off unless you're seated at a table on which food will be served.
-vV
