Opera Gloves

Satin Opera Gloves

Satin is the classic fabric for evening gloves: smooth, light and gently shiny, it catches the light without competing with sequins or beads. Most of our gloves are satin with a little stretch, so they follow the arm and stay in place. Plain colors such as black, white, beige and gray are the most versatile; red, gold, silver, blue and purple add a bold accent to simpler dresses.

To put satin gloves on, gather each glove down to the fingers, slide your hand in and smooth the fabric up the arm without twisting. To remove them, roll the satin down rather than pulling the fingertips.

Satin gloves photograph beautifully, so they are a favorite for weddings, proms and themed photo shoots. For a coordinated look, match the glove color to your dress; for contrast, choose black gloves with a light dress or colored gloves with black. Gold and silver gloves bring a metallic-look sparkle to New Year's Eve and Gatsby parties, while red gloves suit cabaret and holiday themes.

Opera Length Gloves and Extra-Long Styles

Opera length traditionally means a glove that finishes above the elbow. Our gloves range from about 53 to 55 centimeters, which reaches just above the elbow on most adults, to extra-long styles of about 70 centimeters that rise high on the upper arm. Longer gloves suit strapless and sleeveless gowns; standard opera length is easier to wear with flapper dresses and costumes.

A quick way to check the fit: measure from the tip of your middle finger to the point on your upper arm where you want the glove to end, then compare that length with the product description. With extra-long gloves, a small piece of fashion tape at the top keeps them from slipping during dancing or stage performances.

Black Opera Gloves and White Opera Gloves

Black opera gloves are the 1920s classic: they match black, gold, silver and red dresses and give a dramatic, formal finish. White opera gloves are traditional for brides, debutantes and formal ceremonies, and they also make a crisp contrast with a black dress.

Fingerless Opera Gloves

Fingerless gloves hook over the middle finger and leave the hand free. They are practical for brides who want their ring on show, for eating and drinking at parties, and for burlesque and cabaret looks where rings are part of the outfit.

Some fingerless styles are highly elastic, which keeps them smooth along the arm. Remove them by rolling the satin down from the top rather than pulling on the finger hook, which can stretch it over time.

Women's Opera Gloves Sizing

Most gloves are one size with stretch, designed to fit most adult hands and arms. A few longer styles come in size M. If your arms are long, check the length in the product description to see where the gloves will finish, and gather any extra length softly at the wrist.

Opera Gloves FAQ

How long are opera gloves?

Opera gloves finish above the elbow. Ours range from about 53 to 70 centimeters depending on the style.

Can I wear a bracelet over opera gloves?

Yes. Wearing a bracelet or a ring over the glove is a classic 1920s and old-Hollywood touch.

When should I take my gloves off?

Traditionally, gloves stay on for greetings and dancing and come off for eating and drinking.

How do I wash satin gloves?

Hand wash in cold water with mild soap, do not wring, and dry flat.