With bag charms, neckerchiefs and kooky layered jewellery all dominating trends in recent years, you’re not dressed if you’re not highly accessorised right now. But for those that prefer a minimal look, there’s one trending outfit add-on that offers impact without fuss – and that’s the ever-elegant opera glove, which is having something of a moment.
Gaining traction since Autumn/Winter ‘24, thanks to a host of designers that have demonstrated their versatility, opera gloves are no longer only associated with ballgowns. And this season, leather versions have taken a stronghold. Michael Kors and Max Mara paired theirs with chic everyday separates, while Khaite used them to add texture to an already multi-layered collection. At Bronx and Banco, the elongated accessory toughened up a liquid silk maxi gown; the running theme is clearly juxtaposition.
Over on the red carpet, this contrast has remained evident. At the 2025 SAG Awards, Bridgerton actor Nicola Coughlan chose to set off her custom Christian Dior dress with full-coverage black leather gloves, following suit from Greta Lee at the 2024 ceremony – who teamed an intricate The Row gown with ruched leather mitts. There were similar moves at the 2025 Golden Globes, where opera gloves were seen on everyone from Ariana Grande to Kerry Washington.
But XXL gloves are surely not a wearable choice for us mere mortals, right? Wrong. Actually, they make for a practical choice come winter for maxi protection from the cold – and can easily elevate an outfit with shorter sleeves (as fashion insider April Hennig demonstrates perfectly).
With that in mind, below is our edit of the best leather opera gloves on the market right now.
Long leather gloves, £87, & Other Stories
These supple maxi gloves are lined with soft fabric for extra comfort – and can be ruched or pulled past the elbow. & Other Stories is a member of the Leather Working Group, and has pledged to use only chrome-free leather by 2025. As of 2024, 97% of its leather products were chrome-free.
Bottega Veneta Intrecciato leather gloves, £860, Net-A-Porter
Thanks to the fashion house’s famous woven leather technique, these Bottega Veneta opera gloves make an instant statement. Refreshingly, they’re available in a number of sizes, though these are predicted to be a sell-out for Autumn/Winter ‘25.
Long leather gloves, £95, Cos
If a midi length is more in your comfort zone, Cos’ offering is worth a look. Coming in at mid-arm range, they’re ideal for teaming with three-quarter sleeves, or simply pairing with your favourite outerwear.
Celestine leather opera gloves, £198, Cornelia James
Heritage glovemaker Cornelia James is always a go-to for hand-warmers, and these beautifully-made opera gloves are no exception. Made in soft Ethiopian lambskin and handmade in Italy, there’s no doubt these are a quality option – they’re available in a range of cool colours, too.
Handsome Stockholm long leather gloves, £290, Harvey Nichols
Caramel shades are still calling this season, so this sticky toffee-toned set from Handsome Stockholm might just be the ticket. Silk lined for a luxe feel, they’re made from premium Italian Nappa leather.
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