The time has finally come when we can wear our favourite boots sans tights, which means we’re in for a suede boot-fuelled season as the famed footwear style makes a fashion resurgence.
Loved by both Princess Eugenie and Beatrice at this year's Cheltenham Festival, Em Rata while out and about on the streets of New York, Grace Jones at Paris Fashion Week and Kate Middleton all year round, suede boots have made a triumphant return to the fashion scene. What with the revival of the boho trend, suede is on everyone's radar and a boot is the easiest way to incorporate it into your wardrobe.
If you’re someone who has kept well away from suede because of a cleaning fear, rest assured as the shoe gurus at Clarks say that suede "can generally be cleaned by rubbing them with a damp, lint-free cloth or a specialist suede brush" and that "It's best to do this in straight motions but in different directions, as this will help remove dirt without pushing it deeper into the fibres."
The Material:
Suede is a type of leather with a soft, napped finish. Its velvety texture comes from sanding or "buffing" the inner surface. While luxurious, it's more delicate than full-grain leather and requires special care.
Wet Weather:
When suede gets wet, it can become discolored, stiff, and lose its soft texture. Water may leave stains or cause the material to warp. To prevent damage, suede should be dried slowly in a well-ventilated area, and a suede brush can help restore its original texture.
"Water is suede’s worst enemy, especially cleaning suede with water can leave unsightly watermarks that not only stain the material but also flatten its texture. Instead, opt for specially formulated sprays and suede shampoos that are designed to clean without damaging the delicate nap (the tiny hairs found on suede). By using the right products, you'll preserve that luxurious feel and keep your suede looking its best," explain the experts at Frasers.
Stains & Spills:
"For those pesky little stains that suede bags or shoes can easily pick up, a suede eraser can work wonders. Gently rub the eraser over the stain until it lifts away? Dab a cloth with a small amount of white vinegar and gently blot the affected area. The vinegar works like magic to clean without causing harm, leaving your suede fresh and clean," says Frasers.
"Accidents happen, but they don’t have to ruin your suede. If you spill something on your suede bag, quickly cover the area with talcum powder. Let it sit overnight to absorb the moisture. In the morning, use a suede brush to remove the powder, and your suede should be as good as new."
TLC:
As the seasons change, lots of us rotate our wardrobes and put some items away. Storing suede items in a dry, well-ventilated space is crucial to maintaining their appearance. "Avoid plastic bags, as they trap moisture and can cause mildew. Instead, use cloth bags or wrap them in breathable fabric to protect them from dust and dirt while allowing the material to breathe," says Frasers, "Don’t wait until your suede is in desperate need of attention. Regularly brush and clean your suede items to keep them looking fresh and fabulous for years to come. A little care goes a long way in preserving the luxury and style of your suede collection."
Now that we know suede needn't be a mystery when it comes to cleaning, here are 10 of our favourite suede boot picks, which are both perfect for dancing to Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter album and wearing at winter gatherings alike...
The Best Suede Boots To Wear This Winter:
How we chose the pieces:
- Material: Each pair of boots on this list is made from suede, which is a type of leather with a napped finish.
- Price: I have chosen items from a range of high street and designer brands, however as each style is made from leather, prices are dependant.
Why you should trust me:
I am H! Fashion’s Style Writer, with seven years of experience within the fashion journalism industry. I have a love for fashion and spotting upcoming trends, coveted pieces and scouring online for irresistible new-in finds. Finding luxe-looking pieces on the high street is my forte and I love finding those hidden gems that look so much more expensive than they are.
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