If You Buy One Accessory For 2026, Make It a Great Pair of Statement Gloves

It’s rare to find an accessory that sits perfectly at the intersection of “practical” and “chic”. More often than not, we’re used to justifying impracticality or discomfort—see: stiletto heels, micro-mini handbags, etc.—to achieve a desired look. Right now, though, my very favorite thing to style my outfit around also happens to be one of the key pieces helping me stay warm as I run around New York City: a pair of colorful gloves.

They’ve been a go-to runway styling trick for some time now (Khaite’s Fall 2025 show comes to mind, with its perfect pop of purple against otherwise all-black looks), but I’d say Prada’s Spring 2026 collection really solidified colorful gloves as a look worth trying. A handful of models boasted long, perfectly-scrunched leather gloves in shades of cerulean, tangerine, and iris. Not long after, I came across two pairs that really ignited my love for the trend.

The first were these short red leather gloves snagged on discount at Century21 on the first cold afternoon of last year. I couldn’t walk another step with either my hands jammed into my pockets or my palms rubbing together for warmth, so I strolled in and picked out the brightest pair they had. While I hesitated at first to get something other than practical black, I knew going bold would help me view the gloves as more of a fashion accessory than a necessity. Soon, it was as if the Unexpected Red Theory had infiltrated my wardrobe.

When out thrifting one day, I came across a second pair of gorgeous, colorful gloves. These were an almost chartreuse green, and they matched perfectly to a Gucci bag I had been borrowing from Vivrelle.

In the same way I often coordinate my other accessories—like matching my purse to my shoes, for example—I found incorporating vibrant gloves into my outfit was a fresh, fun way to add a bit of flair.

Colorful Gloves

In addition to a growing glove rainbow, I’ve also started collecting more neutral gloves with other eye-catching qualities, like embellishments, fringe, and faux fur. I even nabbed this pair on Etsy, and had the artist paint my actual engagement ring on my left ring finger. I also love this embellished pair from H&M, currently my only elbow-length pair.

My most recent acquisition? A pair of striking blue suede gloves with a black fur trim, procured while secondhand shopping upstate.

They’ll work anytime I wear my black wool coat, but still feel special and stand out compared to a plain pair.

Statement Gloves

That said, I’m not anti- a more neutral leather glove. In fact, I’m well in favor! When I’m wearing a particularly funky coat, a great brown, black, or tan pair is all but essential. If you need to ease into the look, don’t hesitate to start subdued and expand from there.

Everyday Gloves