And now I am an adult, and I own three pairs of cashmere-lined leather gloves. I have a pair of Coach ones I found at TJ Maxx almost a decade ago, a pair from Nordstrom that are “tech” and let me use my smartphone without removing my gloves, and a bright purple pair that my mom bought me for Christmas a few years ago. A few years ago I had the opportunity to check out a new Nordstrom Rack and they provided me with a gift card to enjoy it. One of the things I bought with it was something I wouldn’t normally buy but had always wanted – elbow-length leather gloves (with a knit insert for better fit). I received a vintage broadtail lamb coat from my semi-grandmother and the coat has bracelet-length sleeves and begged for longer leather gloves. I’ve only worn the gloves with the coat once (my life isn’t exciting enough for regular wears of vintage fur) but I felt so glamorous with the combination.
Cashmere-lined leather gloves just SOUND like a luxury, and they can be extremely pricey. But if well cared for, a pair can last you for many many years. And there are ways to find them for far less:
- Shop off-season. Right now department stores have their winter accessories on sale. This is when you can find leather gloves for half price. Just look at the selection currently available at Nordstrom and Macy’s!
- Shop discount stores. TJ Maxx, Marshall’s, Nordstrom Rack, Overstock… such places are brilliant for accessories like gloves. They always seem to have a good supply and you can find some real gems like unique colors or designer brands for low prices.
- Quality, not quantity. My mom only owned one pair, and when they got too worn we would get her a new pair for Christmas. There’s no need for 50 pairs in different colors and styles, one pair is enough and can be your signature look and have the time to mold to perfectly fit only your hands. Take your time, find a pair that is the color, the shape, the material that best fits your personality and winter wardrobe. Don’t use them for making snowmen or clearing off your car (I have a cheapy water resistant pair in my glove compartment just for that), but wear them otherwise with gusto, knowing each wear makes them more and more perfect just for you.
