Suede
A type of leather with a soft, napped finish, suede exudes luxury, refinement, and a tactile richness that instantly elevates any garment, accessory, or piece of footwear.
Origins
High-end, authentic suede is heavily associated with Italian and Spanish tanneries, which are globally celebrated for their masterful leather craftsmanship and ethical processing standards. Synthetic suede and lower-tier natural suedes are manufactured at scale across Asia, particularly in China and India.
Key Benefits
- ✦Luxuriously soft and pliable against the body
- ✦Features a rich, matte finish that absorbs light beautifully
- ✦Lightweight compared to standard full-grain leather
- ✦Instantly imparts a premium, high-end aesthetic
Applications
A Brief History
The term "suede" originates from the French phrase "gants de Suède," meaning "gloves of Sweden." In the 19th century, incredibly soft, napped leather gloves imported from Sweden became a massive status symbol among the French aristocracy. Throughout the 20th century, suede expanded beyond accessories, becoming an iconic material in 1960s bohemian fashion, 1970s western wear, and luxury footwear.
Crafting the Cloth
Traditional suede is made from the underside of the animal hide, typically lamb, calf, goat, or deer. The hide is split, and the inner surface is sanded or buffed to create a soft, velvety nap. Because it uses the inner split layer rather than the tough exterior skin, suede is much softer and more pliable than standard full-grain leather, though less durable. Today, highly realistic synthetic alternatives (microsuede) are also produced from heavily brushed polyester microfibers.
Modern Fashion Trends
Suede is heavily featured in the "bohemian chic" and "luxury western" trends dominating recent runways, seen in fringed jackets and cowboy-inspired boots. There is also a massive surge in vegan, plant-based, and recycled synthetic suedes, driven by the fashion industry's push towards cruelty-free and sustainable materials. In menswear, the unlined suede overshirt has become a staple of relaxed luxury.
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Curating Suede
Our weavers are currently preparing the newest collection of suede fabrics. Check back soon for fresh inventory.