Since the Westernwear trend shows no sign of waning as we move towards autumn, it’s no surprise that suede is set to be majorly in demand. Whether it’s boots, jackets, coats or even a head-to-toe look, leather’s softer sibling is having a bit of a moment.
Take Isabel Marant’s Autumn/Winter ‘24 show, where suede was a running theme – from fringed vests to full overcoats in chocolate and caramel tones. And in Bottega Veneta’s new collection, pink suede has been woven using the house’s famous intrecciato technique to create shirts and trousers. Meanwhile, Louis Vuitton’s very Cowboy-coded menswear show featured the fabric in practically every look, from shirts to suiting. And at Miu Miu, one particular showpiece was a boxy suede jacket embellished with rhinestone details – while most models wore pairs of suede gloves.
In fact, it’s said that one of suede’s original uses was for glove-making in the late 18th century – the soft, more delicate fabric became associated with wealthier, less taxing lifestyles, since it was less practical than leather. On today’s runways, suede has taken on a more relaxed vibe (helped, of course, by its bohemian associations in the 60s and 70s) – so 2024’s iterations often lean into more slouchy, oversized silhouettes.
Trending or not, suede only gets better with age – so here are the key pieces to shop for this season and beyond…
Sézane’s ‘Will’ jacket
With a boxy silhouette that sits perfectly between a jacket and a shirt, Sézane’s hero ‘Will’ jacket is a transitional staple that’s loved by both fashion influencers and stars such as Sofia Richie and Emilia Clarke. Currently, it’s available in a vegetable-tanned khaki suede – though keep your eye out for the sell-out tan version in case it’s restocked.
Khaite’s ‘Elena’ bag
First came the ‘Benny’ belt, then came the ‘Elena’ bag. Capitalising on the success of its studded styles, the New York brand’s slouchy new shoulder bag is bound to be a big hitter.
KHAITE
Elena studded suede shoulder bag
Alaïa’s suede ballet flats
Also getting the suede treatment are Alaïa’s cult ballet flats, which appear to be enjoying another season in the spotlight. The flattering pumps are now available in various suede colourways, including a chic navy blue pair with the brand’s signature rhinestone studs.
Gucci’s horsebit ankle boots
If cowboy boots aren’t your thing, Gucci’s new buckled boots still give a nod to the ‘horsegirl’ trend. A reimagination of the brand’s chunky ‘Silke’ loafers, they feature the Italian house’s iconic horsebit hardwear, made in soft taupe or black suede.
Déhanche’s suede belt
Another bestseller that’s had an update is 2024’s popular Déhanche ‘Hollyhock’ belt – from which we now have the ‘Revenge’ belt, made in Leather Working Group-approved chocolate brown suede. Chunky eyelet ring details add a little more edge than the original.
DeMellier’s suede tote bag
Oversized totes are the bag trend of the season – look to The Row’s sell-out Margaux for ultimate inspiration – so it’s no surprise that DeMellier’s chic New York tote is now available in super-soft mocha suede. Delish.
Josslyn Shi from California College of Art has been crowned Overall Winner of the Real Leather. Stay Different. International Student Design Competition at a glittering final event held at the U.S. Embassy in London.
At RLSD, we think Walter Reginald is doing great things with leather, as far as sustainability and innovation are concerned, so we spoke to the sisters who run the company, Bianca and Natalie, to find out about the glamorous and not-so-glamorous sides of
Read Nicola's guide on how to shop confidently for preloved leather online.
Real people, real style. Direct from the streets.
Subscribe to our newsletter!
Stay different with our monthly roundup, which includes the latest on leather fashion and sustainable features, competition news and more.
