Invest now and you’ll wear them all through autumn and winter …
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This year’s biggest accessory trend already has us excited about autumn outfits. Over the past year suede bags have been popping up everywhere, with this season looking to mark their official comeback and potentially see them overtake leather bags in popularity for the new season.
Between the bohemian revival and Phoebe Philo finally launching her much awaited namesake label that includes several immediate It-bags in suede, this trend is the perfect way to give all your favourite autumn and winter looks an instant update. Accessorising with suede accessories, whether it be with an oversized tote or a crossbody half moon bag, is set to be the key to creating a stylish outfit in the upcoming months.
While it has a reputation for being harder to keep clean than leather, if you take care of suede it is one of the most durable fabrics out there. We recommend investing in a protective spray and recoating annually. You also need to store your pieces in a dust bag away from any extreme cold or damp. Using a silicone-bristle brush every so often will also help to keep suede looking soft and free from dust.
The rise in demand for suede bags means they are now available in a wide variety of silhouettes and colours at every price point. To help you tap into this trend and give your outfits a luxe finish we break down all the different ways to wear suede bags below – as well as the best styles to shop at every price point.
Oversized Totes
We love when fashion and practicality combine, which is why the first style of suede bag we are investing in is a massive hold-all tote. The ultimate bag for everyday day life, some of these picks are even large enough for overnight stays or weekends away. The rich brown shade of this option from Massimo Dutti makes it the ideal alternative to black. It can also be worn across the body for extra comfort if you tend to carry books, laptops or heavy items around daily.
It was love at first sight when we laid eyes on the XL Cabo from Phoebe Philo. The leather trim and tan suede body design make it possibly the most luxurious looking suede bag this season, while The Row’s Margaux remains top of our list. New this season is Manu Atelier’s Le Cambon 35 top-handle tote – the deep brown suede looks so rich for autumn. Bonus points: it fits a 13-inch MacBook.
Brown split suede leather handbag, €349, at Massimo Dutti.
Brown large suede tote, €149, at & Other Stories.
Toffee and black XL Cabas tote bag, €6400, at Phoebe Philo.
Brown suede Le Cambon 25 tote bag, €635, at Manu Atelier.
Burnt Orange Hues
Add both texture and colour to your outfits with these light brown bags featuring warm orange undertones. While suede bags are synonymous with having a slouchy style, Saint Laurent have created this structured version of the ever popular Jamie Carre 4.3 in the trending material to result in a sophisticated option for those who prefer a more elegant, classic style. If you are looking for something more casual, JW Anderson’s bucket bag has plenty of space without being as large as a tote bag.
Tan Jamie carré 4.3 Rive Gauche large suede chain bag, Saint Laurent, €3,800, at Brown Thomas.
Tan corner suede bucket tote, JW Anderson, €750, at Brown Thomas.
Half Moon Silhouette
If you really want to be ahead of the fashion pack, then combining two of the biggest accessory trends of the season – a half moon shaped bag in suede, is guaranteed to keep your look on trend. The Row was one of the first brands to embrace curved lines, with their slouchy banana bag becoming the must-have accessory for fans of quiet luxury.
All Saints half moon suede crossbody bag, €209, at Arnotts.
Black slouchy banana small suede shoulder bag, The Row, €2,240, at Net-a-Porter.
Tan suede shoulder bag, €159, at & Other Stories.
Mixed Medium
If you are a dedicated lover of leather, then going for a bag with a suede leather combination allows you to tap into the trend while still staying true to your personal style. The mixture of the both fabrics adds subtle texture to any look and feels elevated.
Black leather and suede Basket Cabas, €3600, at Phoebe Philo.
Black Laurie suede and leather shoulder bag, The Row, €2,920, at Net-a-Porter.
Cross Body Comfort
For easy weekend days when you don’t have to carry the kitchen sink, ditch the large handbag and invest in a crossbody small suede bag to keep your hands free and your belongings secure. Perfect for nights out or evening events, the light beige shade of this style from Zara blends well with any outfit and the chain strap means it can be used to dress up a casual outfit or be worn with something more formal. Although this option from COS was designed for men, we love how sturdy and durable the thicker strap is.
Beige studded suede crossbody bag, €29.95, at Zara.
Grey crossbody saddle bag, €60, at COS.
