Key Takeaways
- Suede is a fall staple, but a variety of fresh takes have renewed interest in accessories featuring the softly textured material, meaning it’s the perfect time to invest in a new pair of suede boots.
- From bohemian dresses to bootcut jeans to outfit sandwiching, a variety of nostalgic yet modern styling techniques will help you get lots of mileage out of your timelessly luxe footwear.
The heart of autumn is a beloved time for enjoying our favorite fall pieces, both unexpected trends and the cozy-chic staples we turn to every year. Perhaps our favorite category is footwear, with countless fresh shoes and boots taking over our wardrobes—and the best styles just may be the comfortable favorites that get modern updates for the season. Suede never quite goes away, but it’s been having a major renaissance over the past year or so—and suede boots are no exception.
From iconic slouchy Y2K styles to boho ankle booties to bold, bright finishes, it’s an ideal moment to take the trend for a spin, however best fits your taste. Ahead, read all about the suede boots trend, complete with styling tips and eight outstanding product picks.
About the Trend
Suede has always been a timeless autumn staple, but this soft, napped leather is currently having a moment. Suede handbags and jackets are at the center of the zeitgeist, thanks in part to ’70s nostalgia and the Western-inspired style we’ve been seeing across fashion and pop culture. More people are looking for rugged-chic footwear options beyond cowboy boots, so soft suede with fringe and/or Western silhouettes has become increasingly popular.
@brothervellies / Instagram
Another moment giving suede a boost is the old money trend that has been taking the fashion world by storm, thanks to stars like Sofia Richie Grainge and shows including The White Lotus. Suede boots bring an instant quiet luxury feel to any outfit, as the material is visually rich yet refined. Just like other textural favorites—from cashmere to lace—it feels appropriately lived-in from the start, whether you’ve been taking care of an investment piece or are just getting into the material.
Suede can require different cleaning and care than other materials, but when done well, you could have your suede boots for years to come). And since the high-quality fabric is a regular option across accessories like boots, jackets, and handbags, you can add it to your wardrobe without breaking the bank.
The Appeal
While suede boots are currently trending, the fabric itself is eternally suitable for fall thanks to its texture and earthy look. It often comes in a variety of neutral hues, including black, brown, tan, cream, and burgundy, so it’s versatile enough to be worn with just about anything. If you’re looking to switch it up, consider an interesting detail or a bold finish like leopard print—the shoes’ increased popularity this season means you have endless options.
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Suede boots are everywhere these days as the industry embraces textural pieces and boho aesthetics, but even if your fashion journey heads in a different direction next fall, the piece is timeless and versatile, so you can always find new ways to wear it. Investing in this category is a smart move, as it’s practical for everyday wear throughout the fall, yet has a luxe finish that makes it stand out. If you grab a pair you love now, chances are it will elevate countless autumn outfits for years to come.
How to Style
As mentioned above, suede boots are a great fall fashion staple, as the neutral color and timeless look make them versatile enough to dress up or down, depending on the silhouette and styling. Pairing a breezy long dress with some slouchy suede boots emanates a bohemian vibe, especially if you add a denim jacket or a fringed suede vest. If you’re looking for something more minimalist or classic, consider pairing some knee-high suede boots with a tweed midi skirt, a turtleneck blouse, and a trench coat to create a polished fall look. To lean Western, fringe suede booties would pair beautifully with a denim jumpsuit.
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Suede boots are easy to dress up or down, so you can wear them for a wide range of occasions. For a casual fall look, consider pairing some suede ankle boots with bootcut jeans and a graphic tee. Headed on a night out? Pair some knee-high boots with a knit midi dress and tights for a more dressed-up look.
@janneltherese / Instagram
Since suede is popular across categories this season, don’t be afraid to go all out. Pairing a suede jacket or skirt with some coordinating boots can be a shortcut to a cohesive yet texturally interesting outfit. If you ensure the colors match—like a black suede handbag with a pair of black suede boots—you have a modern, fall-ready take on outfit sandwiching.
The Best Suede Boots to Shop
Ready to step into some suede boots this season? Below, we’ve rounded up eight outstanding styles to try, giving you suitable options no matter your upcoming plans.
