Suede just goes hand in hand with fall in the same way that hot lattes, changing leaves, and chunky sweaters do. It's something that can't be explained, it kind of just... is? The material just looks—and feels!—so luxe, and even though it's one of those trends that comes around every time the air starts to feel crisp, this year the suede trend seems to be even more popular than usual.
There are multiple reasons for this: The influence of the Western aesthetic (hi, Cowboy Carter), a rise in bohemian styles (think Chemena Kamali's iconic Chloé girls), and the general luxuriousness of the fabric, something that everyone from vintage lovers to quiet (or loud) luxury fans will appreciate.
Most people start off with suede boots. They're a classic for a reason. But because the material can be worked into so many fall fashion ensembles, consider investing in some other types of suede pieces: Suede jackets add dimension to any look, and you can choose anything from bold tans to deep chocolate tones. Suede bags automatically look more expensive even if they're budget friendly, and suede sneakers will complete any fall outfit. I mean, people (read: Associate Shopping Editor Meg Uy, who wrote an entire review on this topic) can't get enough of the Puma suede Speedcat sneakers in every shade from pale blues to bright red.
You can wear all of your suede at once to really go in on the texture, or mix and match as your heart desires. Shop all the suede finds below, and if you need any other fashion inspo check out our fall boots guide, our ultimate list of fall jacket trends, and this 101 on how to wear dresses with boots.
Suede Jackets
From eye-catching fringe to studded details, there are so many types of suede outerwear. You can also opt for more minimal styles like a simple buttoned jacket or a bomber. These look great with denim and you can wear them over a white tee or thicker knit depending on the silhouette... and the temperatures, obviously.
BDG Urban Outfitters Faux Suede Zip Jacket
Abercrombie Vegan Suede Button-Through Jacket
BLANKNYC Dirt Bike Suede Jacket
MOTHER The Roadside Faux Suede Jacket
Suede Bags
Slouchy bags are probably the most popular suede silhouette, but you can also find them in crossbody, bucket, and bowler bag styles. The Fall/Winter 2025 runways featured so many suede bags from brands like Prada, The Row, Gucci, and Coach, whose Brooklyn Bag has become a huge hit with celebs and on TikTok. Whatever your preferred handbag shape is for the season, there's no denying that doing it in suede form brings it to a whole new level.
Coach Brooklyn Shoulder Bag 28
Quince Italian Suede Saddle Bag
Madewell Mylie Shoulder Bag in Italian Suede
Loeffler Randall Delphine Woven Suede Shoulder Bag
JW PEI Dara Faux Suede Hobo Bag
KAAI Rebel Cross Body
Suede Sneakers
If you've had your eye on Puma Speedcats, consider this is your sign to snag some. There are also plenty of other sporty suede styles to choose from. The sleek, slim-soled sneakers look great with wide-leg pants or trousers that pool around your ankles, or wear them with crew socks and a skirt to give an otherwise preppy outfit some unexpected edge.
Reformation Terra Sneaker
PUMA Speedcat Shoes
adidas SL 72 OG W Sneakers
Suede Boots
Nothing I love more than crunching some leaves on the sidewalk in some pretty boots. Suede is a little less stiff than other kinds of leather, which makes it great for days when you're really getting those 10,000 steps in. You can wear tall knee-high boots with midi dresses or mini skirts, and ankle boots are great with straight- or wide-leg pants. You can even go with a cropped hemline to really make your boots the star of your look.
Blondo Stella Waterproof Knee High Boot
Atsroel Brown Suede Fall Boots
Naturalizer Emily Knee High Boot
Ralph Lauren Artizan Suede Tall Boot
How do I care for my suede pieces?
If you have a scuff or a small mark where you might've banged your shoe against something, a suede brush will easily remove the surface discolorations. Just gently brush over the spot in the same direction of the grain until it starts to fade. You can also use a brush like this to simply zhuzh up the material if it's looking a bit dull or matted from constant wear, so it's just a good tool to have on hand for suede footwear if you don't have it already.
If you're dealing with a build up of dirt where you can see a clear difference between the original color and the gray area taking up residence on your shoe, you probably want to level up to a suede eraser. Take the eraser and rub it over the spot to remove any grime, and don't be afraid to apply a bit more pressure. This can take a few minutes, so just keep at it and you'll start to see the results.
For deep-set stubborn stains, a suede-specific cleaning solution or shampoo will do. Remember that not all solutions are the same, so read the instructions to see how to properly use it on your specific shoes. Some require that you mix the solution with water then dip your brush in it to start cleaning, while others you apply directly onto the material and brush without using any water. But don't worry, even if it does call for you to mix and clean it with water, it won't ruin your shoes! As long as you stuff them with paper to hold the shape, let the pair dry overnight, and re-brush them in the morning to get the texture back, they'll look practically brand new.
Do I need to waterproof my suede?
If you want to keep the original color and texture in tact, it's a great idea to use a waterproof spray or brush-on product to help protect it. You can spot test products to make sure it doesn't cause any discoloration, but once it's all good, you can evenly coat your shoes, bag, or jacket, allow it to dry, and then you won't stress if you're caught in the rain wearing suede.
What should I not do with suede?
Try to avoid contact with water (yes, even if you waterproofed it). Other things to avoid? Direct heat, direct sunlight, and excessive brushing. If your suede does get wet, air drying is of the utmost importance, so although it's tempting to speed up the process with hair dryers, sunlight, or other heat sources, leave your suede to dry on its own.
I'm Cosmopolitan's Associate Fashion Editor and write about any and all trends, major celeb fashion moments, and why wide-leg jeans are basically the best. I originally moved to New York City to audition for RENT, only to find out that the play closed 10 years ago.
