Vol. 9 | Black Leather Gloves [blæ'k kæ'fskin glʌvz]

YusukeKazuhiko Kato, who passed away suddenly in 2009, was not only a musician who created many famous songs but also a multifaceted individual with a talent for writing elegant essays. His final essay collection, 'The Style of Elegance' (published by Kawade Shobo Shinsha), is a masterpiece that chronicles his own refined aesthetic and elegant lifestyle, and it has greatly influenced me.

What particularly struck me was a passage in the chapter titled 'Beloved Winter Gloves' that stated, 'Black calfskin gloves are the epitome of elegance.' I was captivated by his discerning eye, likely honed through extensive experience, and his decisive declaration. It goes without saying that black calfskin gloves have since become a must-have for me in winter.

The black leather gloves featured here have been carefully selected for their simple and elegant appearance, regardless of material or stitching. In fact, the greatest appeal of black leather gloves is their ability to seamlessly blend with various outerwear styles. Their chic nature is immediately apparent.

While there are now many color variations for men's gloves, such as white and orange, black is the only choice for an elegant gentleman. It matches any outfit and undeniably conveys elegance. I highly recommend them to anyone purchasing leather gloves for the first time this season.

The Style of Elegance
By Kazuhiko Kato / Kawade Shobo Shinsha

CHESTER JEFFERIES

These soft lambskin gloves are a riding style, with reinforced leather attached to the index finger and between the ring and little fingers. The elasticated cuffs enhance the fit, and the silk lining ensures a smooth feel when putting them on.

Founded in Gillingham, in the west of England, in 1937, Chester Jefferies gloves are crafted by skilled artisans, from leather selection to cutting and sewing. The brand is favored by the British Royal Family...

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DENTS

As a leading British luxury glove brand, Dents has inherited unparalleled tradition and supreme craftsmanship since its founding in 1777. Renowned for its exceptional fit, characterized by delicate and beautiful stitching, the brand boasts a large following worldwide.

These hairsheep gloves, with their smooth, silky feel that adheres to the skin, feature a simple inseam design without the three characteristic stitches (points) on the back of the hand. Therefore...

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BOTTEGA VENETA

YusukeWhile gloves with outseams can sometimes appear casual, some feature such fine stitching that they resemble inseams, and I personally find those types very appealing.

Bottega Veneta's gloves, distinguished by their delicate stitching and skillful cutting, are made from high-quality nappa leather. The opening for the hand is adorned with tone-on-tone...

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MEROLA

Merola gloves, famously worn in the film 'Roman Holiday,' are favored by executives worldwide for their exceptional fit and expert cutting. Founded in 1870, Merola has been crafting top-quality gloves and ties as a venerable brand of Classico Italia, originating from Naples.

The classic black gloves, made from the finest nappa leather, are an institch type...

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LAVABRE CADET

Lavabre Cadet was founded in 1946 in Millau, southern France, a region with a long-standing tradition in leather tanning since the Middle Ages. Renowned for its handcrafted quality backed by tradition and sophisticated design, the company is also known for producing gloves for many luxury brands, from historic Parisian fashion houses to emerging designer labels.

These gloves, made from high-quality nappa leather, feature outseam stitching and a slit opening with points...

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DIOR HOMME

YusukeAs Kato also wrote in his book, 'elegance' becomes cliché the moment it is spoken or written. I believe it is something that is subtly noticed and implicitly acknowledged by others. Perhaps the ideal presence of black leather gloves is one that the other person may or may not notice.

These thin and soft lambskin gloves feature a silk lining and inseam construction. The wider opening is secured with side snap buttons, making them practical and easy to wear. The inside of the wrist...

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ALPO

Alpo, a luxury glove manufacturer, began as a handicraft by the Portolano family in Naples, Italy, in the late 19th century. Renowned for its soft texture, achieved through a unique tanning process of carefully selected cowhide, Alpo is also famous for being the first glove brand to employ a top fashion designer, known for its high fashionability.

These nappa leather gloves feature outseam stitching that conveys the warmth of handcraftsmanship. The lining is...

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SPOTLIGHT

GUCCI

LANVIN

YusukeRegarding glove details, I personally prefer a longer length. It's similar to wanting to wear long socks, like 'hose,' to avoid showing any skin between the sock and the hem of your trousers; I prefer not to show my skin between my sleeve and the glove. Therefore, gloves with long ribbing like these are excellent for casual wear, as they prevent the wrist from being exposed, even when worn with a blouson or jacket.

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• Article Page (Lanvin)