One of the most luxurious fabrics out there, there's no denying the outfit-altering capabilities of suede. Now, you might be thinking that suede is the same as leather, what makes it so special? Well, technically, you're right—both real suede and leather are made from animal hide, subtle suede being the inner hide while tougher leather forms the outer. It's this distinction of softness that puts suede, in my opinion, just before leather in terms of looking sophisticated. Leather is typically more commonplace across clothing, shoes and accessories, too; suede, although not rare, just isn't as prevalent on the market, which also makes it feel more exclusive by proxy. All of this combined means that suede was pretty well primed to be a huge trend for winter, as 2024 has ultimately been the year where this level of elegance reigned.
First cropping up on bags and shoes, and then jackets and coats, suede has been dominating the trend cycle lately, with supple pieces in the fabric selling out faster than brands can keep them in stock. My friend was shopping for a suede trench coat last week and, between us, there was only one that we could find in stock in her size, such is the level of demand. However, one item that's only recently been given the suede treatment and, therefore, is still suitably stocked, is the suede skirt.
Suede skirts are a wardrobe classic. Not necessarily a "staple"—something which one would struggle to get dressed without—but they're generally considered to be a pretty timeless investment. I will say, however, that I haven't seen as many of them on the market over the past few years as I had previously. Now, it's a different story. Decreed one of the season's key buys by fashion people, who have been enthusiastically wearing suede nonstop since late August, suede skirts are the latest way to channel the fabric. Why now? Like leather, suede is considered to be a warm fabric, so it makes sense that its appeal goes hand-in-hand with the colder months.
Now, let's circle back to a word I mentioned in the previous paragraph: Investment. Real suede skirts tend to be just that—an investment. An expensive material for suppliers to work with, that cost is then reflected in the market price. That said, if you do choose to spend your money on a real suede skirt, then this could very well be a piece you own for the rest of your life. With the right care and cleaning regimen, you could easily wear your suede skirt for decades to come. I'm not exaggerating—my mum has a suede coat that she bought the year before I was born that still looks seriously impressive for its 36-year-old age. In fact, I'd argue it looks even better lived in—a suede piece always tells a story, and wearing it will only enrich it.
Now, if I've done my job correctly, I've either 1) reignited the love you have for a suede skirt you already own or 2) have made the suede-skirt-shaped gap in your wardrobe feel all the more predominant. If you fall into the latter category, or want to add to your collection of suede, below I've charted the three suede skirt silhouettes that never tire or date, with a selection of shopping options for each. Sticking to the real deal, some are costly, but I've also tried to keep budget in mind where possible also. Which you end up falling for? Well, that's something I can't control.
THE BEST SUEDE SKIRTS ON THE MARKET RIGHT NOW
1. SUEDE FLARED SKIRTS
Style Notes: My suede skirt silhouette of choice, a flared style taps into the continuing trend of full skirts that we've seen dominate this year. The sheer weight of the fabric means it hangs beautifully from the body, too, giving your outfit structure and shape.
SHOP:
An unforgettable silhouette.
I love this alternative to khaki.
This also comes in a leather iteration.
This is a thing of suede beauty.
If you prefer black over tan, this is the suede skirt for you.
I can just tell this is going to feel buttery soft.
2. SUEDE MINI SKIRTS
Style Notes: We might be coming into winter, but that doesn't mean your hemlines need to be on the longer side. Suede miniskirts loan themselves well to winter styling—I actually think their soft finish looks better with tights. Knee-high boots make for a chic shoe option, as do mary janes and loafers.
SHOP:
I love how this skirt looks with cream knitwear.
Chocolate brown suede—it doesn't get more delicious-looking than that!
The zip detailing gives this suede skirt an edge that's usually reserved for leather.
Simple yet effective. No notes.
I'll see your suede miniskirt and give you a suede miniskirt with a rosette.
The patch pockets add to the suede fabric's retro, '70s appeal.
3. SUEDE PENCIL SKIRTS
Style Notes: Also like leather, suede pencil skirts never seem to date. Take your cues from the style set and wear yours with other premium fabrications such as cashmere and mock croc for a high-end payoff.
SHOP:
This looks gorgeous with grey knitwear.
Picture this with burgundy boots.
For a sleek silhouette.
The wrap detail makes this pencil skirt all the more versatile—leave it looser for a more fluid shape, or cinch and clinch.
Stouls is really delivering in the suede skirt department.
The blueprint on how to dress up your suede skirt.
