Sabrina, accidents happen - if that self hating person felt the need to take something that wasn't theirs than obvisouly they must really need them.... (not really but if they were that desparate)
I'd just put it off like that -
Yes it is a material loss....and sentimental
But your not the one who will be wearing them and knowing EVERY moment they have on something that they STOLED. AND just think how nervous they'll feel if they think the owner recognizes them.

Geez that person really themselfs into a head trip over what gloves - poor them