On the necessity of gloves

(Serious consideration given to the problem of gloves.  The mitts and mittens mentioned here refer to fingerless gloves, not the modern sort of mitten.)

It is uncomfortable to dance without gloves, so consistency yields to convenience.  For most Peasant dresses mittens are best; but when gloves are worn they should be as little conspicuous as possible.  For the Poudré costumes, long mittens and long embroidered gloves are admissible.  Gloves were never heard of till the 10th and 11th centuries, and not much worn till the 14th; still, what can pretty Berengaria do if she wishes to dance and does not care to appear ungloved?

    Holt, Ardern.  Fancy Dresses Described, 5th Edition.  London: Debenham & Freebody, 1887.