So long straw and see you later crochet – this autumn/winter it’s all about the best suede handbags.
Don’t believe me? Influencer shopping site Like To Know It has reported a 600% increase in searches for suede handbags, eBay has seen searches for ‘suede bag’ increase by 180%, and Net-A-Porter reports customer searches for suede bags have increased by 259% in the last six months with searches for brown suede bags increasing by 139% in the same period. So, clearly, suede is the accessory option for the season, and it’s all thanks to the runway.
Chemena Kamali brought the suede bracelet bag to Chloé, Miuccia Prada made a case for a sleek black suede briefcase-like style at Prada, and Isabel Marant put fringing at the forefront on a suede shoulder bag – each proving there are plenty of iterations of suede bag styles. Plus, let’s not forget the pull of the repeat sell-out The Row Margaux, which includes Kendall Jenner, Zoë Kravitz and Jennifer Lawrence in its fan club.
SKIP TO: Shop the best suede handbags this season.
“At Sellier, we’ve seen a surge in the popularity of suede bags, with searches for ‘suede bag’ up by 20% month on month,” adds Hanushka Toni, founder and CEO of luxury preloved fashion destination Sellier. “They are often available in rich shades like chocolate brown and burgundy, so perfectly complement seasonal colour palettes at this time of year,” she notes, with chic options from Khaite, Saint Laurent, Reformation and Little Liffner all slotting into this shade range.
“I love a large suede bag that feels ‘Birkin-fied’, in other words, well-loved and worn-in,” continues Toni. “Suede totes and bucket bags are ideal for this look and offer the most versatility. For luxury options, brands like The Row’s Margaux Bag and Toteme’s Belted Tote Bag are popular choices. For the mid-tier designer bracket, I love Manu Atelier’s Cambon 35 and Demellier’s New York bags, both of which are having a huge moment and hold strong resale value.”
Plus, thanks to the surge in popularity of suede handbags, there are also plenty of high-street options from the likes of Zara, New Look and Free People for a more budget-friendly take on the quiet luxury-looking accessory.
Valentina Frugiuele
NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 14: Alessandra Ambrosio is seen on October 14, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Rachpoot/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images)Rachpoot/Bauer-Griffin
To style a suede bag, one look at recent Fashion Week street style snaps will offer plenty of inspiration, and Toni has some top tips. “Suede complements earthy tones and works seamlessly from day to night, so I think adding a suede bag to your wardrobe is a great transitional piece,” she begins.
“For a chic autumn look, I like styling a large suede tote bag with cosy knits, tailored trousers and layering with oversized coats. To add depth, I mix textures, pairing suede bags and boots with full denim outfits for a Western vibe but with a seasonal twist,” she adds.
Plus, remember to pay attention to the style of suede bag you reach for, whether it’s a more casual suiting shopper, crossbody or hobo bag, a luxe-looking suede clutch bag or a somewhere-in-the-middle top handle or saddle bag.
Then all that’s left is to remember the “number one rule with any suede bag is to avoid exposing it to water as it can cause stains,” shares Toni. “In the event it does get wet, blot it gently and let it dry naturally, or to avoid the issue, I always recommend professionally suede protecting a bag when you buy it to act as a barrier against moisture and stains”. Now to find the perfect one.
Keep scrolling to see the best suede bags sure to feature on every wish list
Save when you shop for the best suede bags with these Net-A-Porter discount codes at checkout.
Save when you shop for the best suede bags with these Free People discount codes at checkout.
Save when you shop for the best suede bags with these New Look discount codes at checkout.
Save when you shop for the best suede bags with these John Lewis discount codes at checkout.
Save when you shop for the best suede bags with these AllSaints discount codes at checkout.
