Suede's Resurgence on the AW 25-26 Runways
Suede, a perennial favourite in fashion, has made a particularly impactful statement on the Autumn/Winter 25-26 runways. This warm material, often showcased in cosy shades of brown and beige, proves to be an ideal choice for winter dressing, offering both comfort and style. While suede is now widely available across the high street, its current popularity can be traced directly back to influential designer collections that have reimagined its application.
Designer Influence and the Shift to Quiet Luxury
Although Chloé's AW24 collection encouraged a bohemian embrace of suede, this season has seen a notable shift towards a more understated and luxe direction. Esteemed fashion houses such as Brunello Cucinelli, Hermès, and Tod's—all renowned for their 'quiet luxury' aesthetic—have updated classic trenches and tailored trousers with buttery suede in varying shades. Similarly, designers like Vivienne Westwood, Ralph Lauren, and Stouls have incorporated the material into their tailoring, highlighting its versatility and timeless appeal.
Street Style Inspiration and Everyday Wear
For everyday fashion inspiration, street stylers have been enthusiastically adopting the suede trend in recent months. A suede jacket stands out as the most favoured item among fashion enthusiasts. For instance, Victoria's Secret model Romee Strijd recently styled a casual look in Milan, pairing a suede button-up barn jacket with matching suede ballet pumps. Meanwhile, The Attico co-founder Giorgia Tordini opted for a floor-grazing suede trench coat to attend a Ferragamo show, demonstrating the material's adaptability for both casual and formal occasions.
Affordable High Street Options and Accessories
For those seeking a lighter touch, accessories offer a fantastic way to incorporate suede into any wardrobe without a significant investment. The high street is brimming with beautiful yet affordable options. For example, Autograph at M&S features suede bags that could easily be mistaken for designer pieces, while suede loafers from Next or Dune closely resemble Saint Laurent's iconic Le Loafer style, providing accessible luxury for fashion-conscious consumers.
Top Tips for Styling Suede at Any Age
If you are tempted to try the suede trend yourself, consider these expert styling tips to ensure a polished look:
- Opt for Faux Suede: Faux suede provides a more affordable way to experiment with the trend. However, it is advisable to stick to neutral shades, as overly colourful options can sometimes appear cheap.
- Choose Lightweight Styles: Suede can feel heavy, so selecting floaty styles like wrap skirts or lightweight shackets can balance the outfit and enhance comfort.
- Elevate with Gloves: Suede gloves serve as a more sophisticated alternative to traditional wool gloves, adding a touch of elegance to winter ensembles.
- Protect Your Items: Easily marked pieces such as bags and shoes should be treated with a suede protector spray. Products like the one from Penelope Chilvers are highly recommended for maintaining the material's quality and appearance.
This season, suede continues to captivate the fashion world, blending high-end designer innovation with accessible high street options, making it a versatile and enduring trend for all.
