During the 19th the century, ladies always wore gloves outside (so did gentlemen). In addition, they wore them for the most part indoors as well (always at balls, for instance). Made of cotton or kid, they were protection for the hands against dirt and the elements.

*A glove of the same color as the sleeve makes the arm look longer. A constrasting glove seems to shorten it. Gray, beige and white gloves are equally appropriate for any costume with which these colors will harmonize. Black gloves are smart always. Young people wear many colors in gloves to match any tone in their costumes.

A woman does not remove her gloves when she is calling, unless she accepts either food or drink which would neccessitate their removal. If she is wearing long gloves as part of her formal costume, she removes them before going to dinner and carries them with her, putting them on again afterward if she wants to do so. If one's gloves are merely a covering for the hands, they may be removed with the cloak.

Varying in length, the most popular styles during the regency were: long- for formal dinners and balls (strictly white); gauntlet- for riding and winter; and short, palm length gloves for everything else (gardening, walking, etc.)

Caring for your gloves:**

Fabric Gloves

• Wash on hands in suds of mild soap and lukewarm water.
• Rinse fabric thoroughly
• Shape before drying

Leather Gloves

• Wash on hands with warm, mild suds. Rinse in clear water. Do not squeeze or wring. Final rinse should have a drop of soap or glycerine (restores some of the natural fat to the leather.)
• Remove gloves, blot on a towel and dry away from heat. For best results dry on glove frames.
• IMPORTANT: White and other light colors require extra stretching and working at little folds with your fingers. . . .yellow and seemingly dried spots will spring back to life and natural color.

*From "Margery Wilson's Pocket Book of Etiquette"; 1940
**From Sears, Roebuck and Co., circa 1965

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