The Alex Edit: These are the gloves the city's most stylish women are wearing this season
If red lipstick is like a punctuation mark for your face, gloves should hold the same role with your clothes. They’re the finishing touch to any outfit and I admit I rarely wear something just for it’s practical purpose. I wouldn’t wear a pair of gloves just to keep my hands warm on a freezing commute (although they do this job very well) and instead look for pieces that will be the ultimate accent to that day’s look.
This winter it’s time to bring back the glove as the ultimate fashion accessory and the perfect way to express your style when the rest of you is wrapped in more layers than the Michelin Man.
An off the peg pair works perfectly well but if you’re looking for something a little more luxurious - whether as a deliciously decadent treat for yourself or as a brilliant present, I’ve discovered Gizelle Renee - the UK’s only bespoke glove maker. I never knew there were so many types of glove available but am now contemplating my seasonal glove wardrobe in the way I would previously have lavished attention on the shoes I chose… There are warm woollens, edgy leather fingerless mittens, cute designs with bows or contrasting Liberty-print floral panels for when you’re feeling feminine; long elegant shapes for evening or cosy sheepskin styles when you’re standing outside with a cup of something mulled.
The psychology surrounding the clothes we choose is undeniable. And Gizelle, British Glover of the Year and a psychology graduate, understands their power. “Our hands are so important for communicating; shaking hands at work, hugging our partners, holding our children and carving out our lives.” I found myself feeling sharper, sexier and more prone to strap hanging in the chic black leather driving gloves.
Equally, my City-style grey pinstriped coat was lifted with pink leather and the contrast between dove grey faux fur and navy patent was incredibly edgy. Even the simplest black leather jacket takes on a whole new personality with long leather tasselled gloves in hot tones of orange, red and mustard. I recommend you go bold and choose brilliant contrasting colours for maximum impact.
Gloves are the perfect accessory to have fun with. A highlighter for your hands, perhaps. In winter our outer layers are the first thing many people see so picking a witty lift to your look speaks volumes about your style intentions and personality. The difference with these gloves is that there is no seam along the finger so they sit really smoothly.
They are all hand made by Gizelle’s team of artisans and in a tiny shop in London’s elegant St James’ you can play with the rainbow tones of the range in every shape and size. There is monogramming service to elevate your purchase to the truly bespoke, proper measuring to ensure your gloves fit and exquisite gift-wrapping (your purchase will come in tissue paper scented with Floris fragrance.) Gizelle revealed that most people are wearing gloves that are far too big for them. Well-fitting fine leather gloves will feel tight to begin with and all take four wears to mould to your shape and stretch out over your hands for the perfect fit. No longer a basic stocking filler a fancy pair of gloves are my choice or festive gifts. For anyone (Gizelle does a men’s range too.)
https://www.gizellerenee.com











