While the existence of weather-proofing mittens predates medieval Europe, gloves started to come to the forefront of fashion between the 12th and 16th centuriesin Europe and the British Isles.
Early gloves were offered in two styles, three-fingered and five-fingered.
Three-fingered gloves were only worn by working class men and never by women.
In the Luttrell Psalter of the early 14th century, there is a man and woman shown weeding with just the man wearing gloves.
A similar version in a fur-lined form is shown 100 years later in the Robert Campin painting, "The Nativity".
In Fairhold's Costume in England, three-fingered gloves are called "country man's gloves".
According to the book, Dress in the Middle Ages, "Furniture inventories and builders' account books confirm that sheepskin gloves were worm by masons and other workers using dangerous tools or corrosive materials."
Five-fingered gloves were also worn by working class men on occasion but never by women.
Prior to the 15th century, there are few depictions of anyonewearing five-fingered gloves.
In describing 13th century apparel in Dress in Ireland, "Hose, pointed shoes and gloves were worn by all who could afford them."
Hunting scenes in the earlier centuries show a protective glove made of heavy leather that flares past the wrist and has a tassel. Early hunting gloves resemble gloves used in modern times.
During the 1400s and 1500s, the glove designs were plainer, as evidenced by the painting "The Family of Uberto de'Sacrati" that shows the lady wearing gloves with the fingertips cut off and the gentlemen wearing a single glove.
During the 15th century, gloves become a fashionable accessory for both men and women.
By the 16th century, gloves become a highly decorated accessory with slashing, gems, pearls, lace, embroidery, tabs, ribbons and elaborate cuffs.
