In short: short wrist gloves suit almost every dress and every ceremony; elbow and opera-length gloves belong with strapless or sleeveless gowns. Choose fingerless gloves, or plan to slip off your left glove, for the ring exchange. Match the fabric and the shade of your dress, and take your gloves off to eat.
Why bridal gloves are back
Gloves were part of every formal wedding until the 1960s, then almost disappeared. They are returning now because they add a vintage, polished touch that a necklace or a bracelet cannot, and because they photograph beautifully when you hold your bouquet.
The four glove lengths
- Wrist (short) gloves end at or just past the wrist. They are the easiest to wear and suit every dress, including long sleeves. See our short satin gloves with pearl bow.
- Mid-arm gloves end halfway to the elbow: a good choice with three-quarter or cap sleeves.
- Elbow-length gloves meet the elbow, a classic with short-sleeved or sleeveless dresses.
- Opera gloves reach above the elbow. They belong with strapless and spaghetti-strap gowns, for an evening or black-tie look. See our long fingerless tulle opera gloves.
The old rule still works: the less arm the dress covers, the longer the glove can be. Long gloves with long sleeves look crowded.
Lace, tulle or satin?
Lace gloves go with lace dresses and romantic, vintage styles. Sheer tulle is the most discreet and modern. Satin is classic and formal, lovely with a satin or crepe gown. Details such as pearl bows, ruffles or crystals should echo something on your dress or your veil.
The ring exchange
This is the practical question. You have three options:
- Fingerless gloves, or gloves with a finger loop, leave the ring finger free. See our short fingerless lace gloves.
- Remove the left glove just before the vows and hand it to your witness or maid of honour.
- For traditional long gloves, some brides open a small seam on the ring finger in advance, so the finger can be slipped out discreetly.
Glove etiquette in one minute
- Keep them on for the entrance, the ceremony and the formal photographs.
- Take them off to eat, to drink and to cut the cake.
- Rings go under the gloves, never over them.
- Bracelets may be worn over long gloves.
Colour
Match your dress exactly: white with white, ivory with ivory. For a modern twist, black lace gloves with a white gown make a strong, graphic statement.
Detachable sleeves: the alternative
If you want the look of sleeves rather than gloves, detachable sleeves attach at the upper arm and can be removed for the party. See our lace appliqué sleeves and Victorian satin puff sleeves.
Questions brides ask
Can I wear gloves with a long-sleeved dress?
Yes, but choose short wrist gloves only, in the same fabric as the sleeves.
Are bridal gloves old-fashioned?
Not anymore. Short lace and sheer tulle gloves are among the most photographed bridal accessories of the last few seasons.
Do bridesmaids wear gloves too?
They can, usually in a shorter length than the bride so that she stands out.
How do I choose the size?
Most of our gloves are stretch one-size. For fitted satin gloves, measure the circumference of your hand at the knuckles.
Browse all bridal gloves, or pair them with a veil in the same lace.
