Glove and special sass

Last week, I had the pleasure of watching “Shopgirl” the movie.

The resemblance between Mirabelle – the shopgirl of the title, played by Claire Danes – and ShopGirl the columnist, played by me, lies in name only. She has a much better stylist – nobody looks that good in too-big vintage. I’ve never had an affair with a wealthy, emotionally unavailable older man played by Steve Martin. And besides, I’ve never worked in retail. Not behind the counter, anyway.

Mirabelle sells gloves of the fancy, impractical ilk, made of velvet, satin and lace. She works in the couture department of Saks, and nobody, except Martin’s Ray Porter and a very grateful Asian woman, ever buys anything from her.

Despite their unpopularity on screen, fashion insiders predicted that “Shopgirl” would catapult these prom-style gloves into it-accessory status this season. Strangely enough, I have yet to see them in eastern Maine outside a bridal shop.

That’s not to say there aren’t plenty of glamorous, practical options out there. Take the buttery soft, pale pink, cashmere-lined nappa leather gloves at Filene’s ($49.99). Or the lined leopard-print velvet gloves, also at Filene’s, for $24.99.

On a recent trip to Bar Harbor, I fell in glove with the selection at Macey’s. They’re all knits, but they’re decidedly posh – fuzzy brown with a pistachio-green butterfly, pale green with lettuce edges and a print of a woman drinking champagne, or a simple but warm pair of teal gloves that would add a little flash to your L.L. Bean parka.

If understated elegance is what you’re after, head to Talbots, where the gloves are absolutely heavenly. I adored the ruffled-cuff velvet ($24), but I couldn’t resist a simple pair of two-ply wool gloves with delicate button details ($28).

Last year, I bought a pair of long cashmere gloves at Marshalls, and the store’s offerings are equally luxurious and well-priced this year. T.J.’s has a great selection as well – I’m especially fond of the soft printed leather and fur-lined driving gloves.

But the most opulent gloves I found came from Target. They’re lined, which makes them warm and useful, but the glass- and stone-embellished cuffs are dripping with style. At $29, they’re a frugal indulgence or a fabulous gift. Can’t swing it? Check out the two-pack of magic gloves (I like the cream-colored pair with pompoms) for $1.99.

Who says you can’t look like a movie star – even in Maine? Not “Shopgirl” – and certainly not ShopGirl.

ShopNotes

. The Maine Artisans Gallery, a nonprofit cooperative, has opened at the Airport Mall in Bangor. The seasonal shop features items made by Maine artisans and crafters, and each day a different artisan will be on hand to discuss his or her work. The gifts and decor include hand-painted pet ornaments, hand-carved candles, fine jewelry, fleece hats, Maine paintings, kitchen decor, welcome slates, stained glass and more. If you’re looking for a unique holiday gift, stop by and say hi.

. Calling all serious shoppers: Filene’s biggest sale of the year is on today. Bring your coupons and save.

. Parks Hardware on Mill Street in Orono will take 50 percent off the price of all garden tools this weekend.

. The Downeast Heritage Museum in Calais (39 Union St.) will hold “An Arte Affaire” this weekend. Shoppers will love the work by local artisans, including Heather Perry’s fabulous jewelry and Nan Sepik’s whimsical clothing designs. Admission, which benefits the museum, is $3. For more information, call 454-7878.