When it comes to quintessential fall style, it’s hard to beat the best suede boots. Made from a luxuriously soft fabric, these are the boots you’ll look forward to wearing all year long in the colder seasons, but yes, if you’re a diehard, it’s perfectly acceptable to wear them during winter and spring. But fall’s cool weather makes soft ankle boots, over-the-knee silhouettes and heels even more appealing – in fact, they’re timeless wardrobe accessories.
Askum’s must-have suede shoes are:
Best ankle boots: Staud Valley Suede Ankle Boots, $580
Best Chelsea boots: Tod’s Chelsea boots, $945
Best knee-high boots: Everlane The Banana Boots, $350
Best Lug Sole Shoes: Miu Miu Suede Boots, $1,490
Best mid-calf boots: Saint Laurent Niki Suede Ankle Boots, $1,590
Best over-the-knee boots: Reformation Ruby Over-the-Knee Boots, $598
Best Western Boot: Zara Cowboy Boot, $139
When paired with casual outfits like jeans and a cashmere sweater, you can’t go wrong with suede ankle boots, whether they’re heels or flats. For the ultimate laid-back look, a sturdy lug sole or a low stacked heel in black, brown or gray looks effortlessly dressy, while a simple mid-calf silhouette is the ultimate in-between option. When you’re wearing a midi dress to work or out to dinner with friends, knee-high casual suede boots, whether in a neutral tone or another color, are the perfect complement. Choose an unexpected color like burgundy, navy or mountain green to accentuate a beautiful print.
When attending more formal occasions like cocktail parties or elegant evenings, opt for more dramatic heels, stilettos or demure kitten heels in any length boot. Of course, there are seasonal trends that can give any fall outfit a new appeal. This year, above-the-knee silhouettes, ruched soles and western-style booties are back for a look inspired by the 90s and 00s.
Keep scrolling for our comprehensive edit of the best women’s suede shoes. You’ll find everything from versatile styles guaranteed to stay in your wardrobe for decades to the latest trends worth investing in this season. Plus, there are suede care tips, from safety techniques to cleaning and storage.
ankle
Few shoes have as classic a drop feel as suede ankle boots, especially those with a block heel. Plus, they transition well into other seasons, including spring dresses, summer shorts, and more.
Chelsea
These Chelsea boots feature a pull-on silhouette and stretch fabric at the ankle. Whether they’re flat or block-heeled, they look perfect with tapered jeans or a floral dress.
Knee Length
Knee-high boots are one of the most elegant shoes to wear whether you’re wearing formal or casual attire. From skirts to dresses, try pairing loose or slim designs with midi-length skirts and wide bodices with fitted or straight-leg jeans.
Lug Sole
Bring back some ’90s and ’00s nostalgia with a pair of nubuck-soled suede boots. Many pieces are made from waterproof fabrics or lined with warm shearling, making them perfect for cold weather.
mid calf
Mid-calf suede boots are somewhat of an unsung hero, but one of the most versatile options. These boots are the perfect middle-of-the-road option when you want something a little taller than your everyday ankle boot but don’t need a knee-high boot, whether paired with a dress or casual ruffled pants.
above the knee
While you are following the runway cues, don’t miss the resurgence of over-the-knee boots. They are undoubtedly the most eye-catching piece of the suede collection and will suit your dressing language, whether they are flats or heels.
West
While western boots are the signature of designers like Isabel Marant, they are definitely trending this season and there are plenty of brands to choose from. Some styles are more literal than others, with distinctive details like slanted heels, stacked heels, and pointed toes.
How to Care for Your Suede Shoes
Once you’ve chosen your favorite suede boot style, care should be your top priority to ensure they last not just one season, but many. Eskume turned to experts Sarah Pearson for advice, as told by Jesse Randall, co-founder of Margaux, and founder and creative director of Loeffler Randall.
Treat your shoes before wearing them for the first time
Margaux co-founder Sarah Pearson recommends using suede from a trusted brand, Leather Case, telling Eskume, “We recommend treating your shoes before they’re exposed to the elements to keep them looking their best.” She says Scotchgard is one of her favorites, and Margaux’s specially developed suede care kit includes a spray cleaner and protector as well as a suede brush.
“Before disposing of your shoes, always test them in an unknown area,” she advises. “You can use a suede brush to gently remove any signs of wear or scratches on the suede, and use a spray cleaner to treat surface marks or stains. After cleaning the suede, or at least every few wears, re-treat the suede leather with a protective substance to prevent future wear and tear.
Brushing your shoes while wearing them
Jesse Randall, founder and creative director of Loeffler Randall, also recommends New York City’s Leather Spa and its product line as his trusted source. “For daily [home care], it’s a good idea to invest in a suede brush so you can scrub your shoes after wearing them. This will remove dirt before the suede fibers set, making your suede shoes and boots last longer.” It’s also important to store your suede shoes properly to extend their life. “Before storing your suede shoes (or any shoes), make sure they are thoroughly air-dried, especially if they’ve been exposed to snow or rain.” “We recommend storing shoes upright on a shelf or in a hard box to protect their structure. You can also use a shoe stretcher or shoe shaper to help restore or maintain shape.
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