How to Buy Suede

Your Guide to buying the best Suede

Overview

Suede is a luxurious and timeless material that has been used for centuries in apparel, accessories, and furniture. Its unique texture and feel make it a desirable choice for many people. In this buying guide, we will discuss the different types of suede, the best ways to care for it, and how to choose the right suede product for your needs. We will also provide some tips and tricks on how to shop for suede and get the most out of your purchase. Through this guide, you will be able to make educated and informed decisions when it comes to investing in products made from this beautiful material.

Key features

  1. Durability - Suede is a delicate material that requires special care; it is not as durable as other materials such as leather.
  2. Water Resistance - Suede is not water-resistant and can easily be stained by water or other liquids.
  3. Texture - Suede has a distinctively soft texture, but can become scuffed or worn over time.
  4. Color - Suede is available in a range of colors, but it is important to keep in mind that the color may fade or change over time.
  5. Price - Suede can range in price depending on the quality and origin of the material.

See the most popular Suede on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Durability: Suede is a durable material due to its tightly woven fibers, which resist wear and tear.
  • Water-resistant: Suede is naturally water-resistant, which makes it ideal for use in wet conditions.
  • Soft and Comfortable: Suede has a soft, plush texture that is comfortable to wear and pleasing to the touch.
  • Breathable: Suede is highly breathable, allowing air to circulate through the material to keep you cool in hot weather.
  • Versatile: Suede can be used to make a variety of garments, from shoes and boots to jackets and coats.
  • Stylish: Suede is a classic material that adds an element of luxury to any outfit or item.

Cons

  • Staining Potential: Suede is prone to staining from both natural and artificial sources. It can be difficult to remove water, oil, and dirt stains once they have set in.
  • Prone to Damage: Suede is a delicate fabric and can easily become damaged, torn, or punctured by sharp objects.
  • Stiffness: Suede can be stiff and uncomfortable when new and it may take some time to soften up.
  • Difficult to Clean: Suede can be difficult to clean and maintain and requires special cleaning products and techniques.

Best alternatives

  1. Faux Suede - Synthetic microfiber fabric with a texture and look that is similar to suede.
  2. Nubuck - Genuine leather with a lightly sanded surface to create a suedelike feel.
  3. Velvet - Soft, plush fabric that is often used to mimic the look and feel of suede.
  4. Corduroy - Textured fabric that is often used to make clothing and accessories that look and feel similar to suede.
  5. Satin - Smooth, glossy fabric with a luxurious feel that is often used to create items that look and feel like suede.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Suede Brush - A special brush used for cleaning and restoring the nap of suede.
  • Suede Cleaner - A cleaning product designed specifically to clean and protect suede.
  • Suede Protector - A waterproofing product that is applied to suede to protect it from water and stains.
  • Suede Eraser - A special eraser specifically designed for use on suede to remove scuffs and dirt.
  • Suede Dye - A dye specifically designed for use on suede to restore color.
  • Suede Hanger - A hanger specifically designed to store and hang suede garments.

Common questions

  1. What is suede?
    Suede is a type of leather that has been buffed and sanded to give it a soft, napped finish. It has a velvety feel and is often used to make clothing, shoes, and other goods.
  2. What is the difference between suede and leather?
    The main difference between suede and leather is that suede is made from the underside of the hide, while leather is made from the top. Suede has a softer texture and is more delicate than leather.
  3. What is the best way to clean suede?
    The best way to clean suede is to use a suede brush and a specialized cleaner. A suede brush can be used to remove dirt and debris while the cleaner can help to restore the nap.
  4. How do you waterproof suede?
    You can waterproof suede by using a spray-on waterproofing solution or a suede protector. Spray-on solutions can be applied directly to the material while suede protectors are applied to the inside of the garment.
  5. Is suede durable?
    Suede is generally considered to be a less durable material than leather, but it is still a strong and durable material. If cared for properly, it can last for many years and look as good as new.

Trivia

In 2017, Suede frontman Brett Anderson made a surprise guest appearance in a pantomime of Cinderella at the Mayflower Theatre in Southampton. He appeared as the Fairy Godmother, complete with a larger-than-life costume, and a rendition of the band's hit single 'Beautiful Ones' which was slightly tweaked to fit its new context. This story was featured in the official Suede website here.

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.