Etiquette Changed by Ungloved Prince

Before becoming King Edward VII, Prince Albert spent quite a bit of time socializing and womanizing in Paris. Gloves were required there, though he started the “no gloves” trend in his home country. – Image source, Pinterest

No Gloves

The ungloved hand can now be extended in society without reproach. The fact illustrates the whimsical basis upon which conventions rest. One day the Prince of Wales drove off in a hurry to hold a levee for the Queen. On arriving at the drawing-room he found himself gloveless. It was too late to send, and as it wouldn’t have been etiquette for the rest to wear gloves when the Prince had none, the ceremony was a gloveless one. 

After that gloves were banished from the great socials, ceremonials, and even in the street. The fashion has come to this country. During the last two years gentlemen have appeared everywhere ungloved in the street, the drawing-room, the opera, and the theatre. In France, however, it would be considered as improper to appear in a drawing-room ungloved as unshod. But as gloves are cheaper on the Continent than in this country or England, the proprieties may be observed at a less cost. – The Daily Morning Times, 1881

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