Bridal Gloves Etiquette
The modern bride has much more freedom to express herself than ever before. Wearing any color other than white was once verboten, for example, but now wedding dresses are available in many hues. For the modern bride, wearing bridal gloves is an homage to the traditional wedding. They're no longer an essential part of ceremonial attire, but if you choose to include them, be aware they still come with a few rules of etiquette.
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Glove Length
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Bridal gloves are measured by inches or the number of buttons that run along the underside of the glove. The length of the glove worn on the wedding day must correspond to the length of the sleeve on the bridal gown. Sleeveless and tank-top-style dresses pair with gloves reach above the elbow or are longer than 13 inches. Cap-sleeved and elbow-sleeved dresses go with 12-inch or elbow-length gloves. Six-button gloves or shorter are for longer sleeved dresses. The ultimate rule for determining glove length is gloves can meet the cuff of the dress, but never go over or under it, according Bride & Groom online.
Glove Color and Material
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Etiquette rules also determine what the gloves are made of and their color. The material used for the glove must match the dress exactly. The same goes for the color. Dye the gloves to match the dress if necessary. The glove's design must complement the dress. Only a very simple dress warrants an ornate glove. Otherwise, keep the glove simple.
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During the Ceremony
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Brides have the option of wearing the gloves during the ceremony or taking them off. If you choose to take them off, do so prior to the start of the ceremony. Otherwise, the glove must stay on until the ring exchange. The ring exchange may require some practice and preparation before the wedding, if the bride intends to keep the glove on. The ring is never worn over the glove. The Hudson Valley Weddings website suggests creating a slit in the glove that runs across the base of the ring finger on the left hand or wearing gloves with the fingers exposed. Once the groom places the ring on the finger, the glove goes on again.
During the Reception
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Brides must remove the gloves when eating, cutting the cake and drinking. They must wear them during photos and the special dances with the father of the bride and siblings. Brides must wear the gloves while meeting and greeting guests in the receiving line prior to the reception.
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References
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