In the later eighteenth century the neo-classical taste encouraged the use of light white fabrics and delicate embroidery designs for dress and dress accessories. Fabric gloves continued to be fashionable and could be worn by both men and women for formal occasions.
Brightly-coloured and boldly-patterned knitted stockings and gloves were also worn during the early decades of the nineteenth century. Bead knitting was popular for bags and purses and it could occasionally be used for gloves.