When it comes to accessories, the most versatile pieces are the ones that stand the test of time, and a suede handbag is a worthwhile investment. From fringed, bohemian-leaning iterations in sandy hues to structured styles in rich chocolate tones, a suede bag offers the retro appeal of a treasured heirloom that transcends the seasons.
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Suede can often be disregarded for practical reasons – what does one do about rain smudges? – however this season’s toffee totes and olive shoulder bags only benefit from a lived-in appearance. Chemena Kamali’s debut collection at Chloé for autumn/winter 2024 is partly responsible for this mood, as she ushered in a ’70s-inspired Chloé bohemianism, where ruffled dresses were accessorised with merlot, dusty-pink and tan suede slouchy bags. However, as well as Woodstock-coded tassels and fringing, there’s been a more elevated take on suede this year, with polished silhouettes and rich palettes. Raf Simmons and Miuccia Prada, for example, introduced a new suede bowling bag in rich mahogany and crimson in Prada’s autumn/winter 2025 collection, as well as a trapezoid-shaped shoulder bag in distressed brown suede featuring gold and silver hardware.
Numerous celebrities have endorsed the suede bag as an everyday hero. Daisy Edgar-Jones carried an oversized Gucci B Bag, which is crafted from a brown suede embossed with the house’s logo, to attend Gucci’s spring 2025 show, while Kendall Jenner stepped out during Paris Couture week clutching an suede Hermès Birkin. Elsewhere, Bella Hadid helped propel Coach’s Brooklyn tote to It-bag status when she was photographed wearing it with frayed shorts and black boots. She’s also been seen sporting Valentino Garavani’s Western-inspired Nellcôte shoulder bag, which features tassels and bold silver studs.
While luxury labels such as Saint Laurent, Prada, Khaite and Coach have released accessories rendered in suede, there are also a number of smaller independent handbag brands that deserve an honourable mention in this department. Little Liffner’s suede tote and buckled bags are popular among industry insiders, while Manu Atelier and DeMellier will also have you lusting after supple accessories. Suede protector at the ready! Keep reading for our edit of the best suede handbags for 2025 and beyond.
