Mesh jackets are nice as long as you avoid black. I have a first gear in black but I stopped wearing it when hot and sunny. I now have a light grey tour master flex series 3 that I wear all the time. I still break out my black first gear mesh pant for long trips.
One thing to consider is where the liner is. My first gear has a water proof internal liner. Keeps me fairly dry/warmer but the outer mesh soaks up a lot of water. Also, it is a pain to take off the jacket and install the liner.
The flex series 3 has an outer shell that goes over the mesh jacket. It is very easy to put on when it is chilly out. I don't even bother zipping them together, just put it on over the mesh jacket and the velcro holds it in place. I have not done any serious riding in the rain, I'm a fair weather rider.

Gloves are all about habit. I finally started wearing gloves 2 years ago and now I feel naked w/o them. Rode without gloves for about 15 years.