Suede's vulnerability to rain damage makes wearing it a bit tricky, however, now that we're on the other side of
winter, it’s time to embrace it. Whether dressing up a casual ensemble with a louche goatskin motorcycle jacket or
topping off a tonal look with a baker boy cap, a suede garment will always add a luxurious and sophisticated
touch.
Tom Chamberlin, Editor
Suede is complicated and high maintenance, but by Jove does it stand out. It is sensual and comforting, giving a
sense of luxuriousness as well as an intrepid, outdoor ruggedness. You can play the pioneer or the mogul with suede,
and when it comes from Cromford Leather Company, there are few to match.
This gilet could easily double as a shooting vest, with four large patch pockets, the bottom of which can carry
anything from several cartridges to a box of Behikes – the agony of choice. But for a weekend city look, pair it
with this collarless denim shirt from 100Hands and Calabrese 1924 scarf.
Jessica Beresford, Managing Editor, Online
I have, in the past, been opposed to suede – perhaps because I’m a bit slack when it comes to taking care of my
belongings, and it seems to be on the high side of the maintenance spectrum. But I’m slowly coming around to its
virtues, including the rich patina that it inevitably develops. This Richard James piece has all the trimmings, including tortoiseshell buttons,
epaulettes and a belted waist, finished in chocolate brown suede. If a full coat is too much, opt for a pair of
sleek suede shoes – like these Carmina loafers – which are a formidable choice for
spring.
Benedict
Browne, Online Editorial Associate
London has become a little more colourful and vibrant thanks to spring’s well-overdue arrival. As such, one can now
bring out those suede pieces that have been patiently waiting in the cupboard. I’ve had my eye on Enlist’s sandstone bomber jacket for some time – it’s a great piece for
weekend jaunts about town. As ever, I like to keep things fairly tonal, so I’d pair it with some high-waisted
trousers, care of Anderson & Sheppard, cut with two forward-facing
pleats in a lightweight linen, and anchor both of them with a plain white T-shirt from Falke. Simple.
Megan Plenderleith, Copywriter
Suede takes centre stage when crafted into a piece of indulgent clothing, such as Thedi Leathers' black goatskin suede motorcycle jacket. For a trans-seasonal
ensemble (necessary in England), pair this jacket with a simple pair of selvedge edge jeans, an Enlist grey ribbed
merino wool roll neck sweater and a pair of Rubinacci black Marphy deerskin leather tassel
loafers.
Natasha Drax,
Online Editorial Assistant
Apart from the essential need to douse it in protective spray, a suede jacket is a fantastic garment, and Chapal’s AE 1932 jacket in rich tobacco is one such example. Taking
inspiration from the heroic aviator Amelia Earhart, it is both practical and stylish, featuring two generous front
patch-pockets, knitted cuffs and hem and a cotton lining. Contrasting tortoiseshell buttons also give the design a
modern edge. Pair with hues of beige, caramel or brown to complete a tonal combination.
