Revamp (see what I did there?) Your Fall Wardrobe in 2023
After the longest El Nino Summer in the history of Summers, Fall is creeping in with plastic skeletons gracing the storefronts, ghosts swaying from ceiling fans, and the candy aisles quadrupling your waist size. For us, guys, it’s a sign to reevaluate our wardrobe for the upcoming season. With an array of fashion options on the table, there’s one fabric that I’m declaring the standout for 2023: suede.
Unleashing the Power of Suede
According to every designer and stylist I know, in 2023, suede is gearing up to take center stage as the ultimate fabric for fall fashion. Whether it’s a suede jacket or a belt, the quickest way to elevate your wardrobe this season is to invest in a pair of suede footwear.
Before I belly flop into the world of suede footwear for fall, let’s demystify the suede vs. leather debate. It’s a topic that can get a bit confusing, but the difference is quite simple. Both suede and leather originate from animal skins, but they utilize different layers. Leather, the glossy and smooth fabric we know well, comes from the outer layer of the skin. In contrast, suede gets its soft, velvety texture from the inner layer, often referred to as the “flesh side.” In layman’s terms, leather is the tough exterior, while suede is the softer, more economical counterpart, perfect for shoes, jackets, belts, wallets, and more.
Mastering Suede Care
Suede is our fabric of choice for fall footwear, but it’s vital to know how to maintain it properly. There’s a myth that suede is a high-maintenance fabric, but let’s set the record straight. With the right care, your suede shoes can look impeccable throughout the season.
To keep your suede shoes in top-notch condition, prevention is key. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Invest in a suede protector spray, a readily available and highly effective solution. This spray not only waterproofs the uppers of your suede shoes but also shields them from rain, mud, and light stains, ensuring they stay in impeccable condition.
Even with a suede protector, exercise caution on days with heavy rain. Suede and water aren’t the best of friends, and soaked suede is no way to spend your day.
If your well-thought-out plans hit a snag, don’t sweat it. Start by using a suede brush to gently remove dry dirt and grime from the surface. If you need to tackle water spots or stains, turn to a suede eraser. Apply moderate pressure, just like you would with a regular eraser. For stubborn stains, a suede cleaner, which functions like shampoo for your shoes, can work wonders.
Now that you’re equipped with the knowledge of how to care for your suede treasures, let’s dive into the suede shoe trends that will define your fall wardrobe.
The Essentials
Stay here as we explore the coolest suede pieces to amp up your autumn and winter look, from sleek boots and bold loafers, to a really cool trucker style jacket. Fall in love with suede’s timeless allure, and step out in style as you embrace the season’s finest fabric. Whether you’re sipping a pumpkin spice latte or strolling through a sea of fallen leaves, your suede shoes will make every step a powerful fashion statement.
Cole Haan
Cole Haan is a brand renowned for its commitment to blending classic designs with innovative technology. When it comes to men’s fashion, Cole Haan offers a style that strikes the perfect balance between timeless elegance and contemporary sophistication. With a primary focus on footwear, versatile accessories, and an array of clothing options, Cole Haan helps men achieve a well-rounded, stylish, and comfortable look for any occasion. If you’re looking to elevate your wardrobe with high-quality, fashionable pieces, Cole Haan is a brand worth exploring.
ARIAT
According to the Ariat website, “Designed in collaboration with 26x World Champion Cowboy Trevor Brazile, the Relentless collection of Futurity boots is a modern take on tradition for today’s cowboy. A narrow cutter toe, roughout foot, and bold shaft pattern make a striking statement. Superior comfort and stability, plus an extra layer of heel-to-toe cushioning, make it a serious performer.”
Available in 4 colors.
Allen Edmonds
Allen Edmonds is an American footwear and accessories manufacturer and retailer that is renowned for its high-quality, handcrafted men’s shoes. Founded in 1922 by Elbert W. Allen and Bill Edmonds in
Belgium, Wisconsin, the company has a long history of producing fine leather footwear. Known for their craftsmanship and timeless designs, Allen Edmonds has earned a reputation for producing high-quality, American-made shoes that are not only stylish but also durable. Their shoes are often favored by individuals who appreciate traditional craftsmanship and classic design.
TECOVAS
Tecovas is a popular American brand that specializes in high-quality cowboy boots and western footwear. Established in 2015 and headquartered in Austin, Texas, Tecovas has gained a reputation for crafting stylish and comfortable boots that are inspired by Western heritage and cowboy traditions. Tecovas has found success in providing a modern twist on the classic cowboy boot while maintaining a focus on craftsmanship and quality. Their commitment to affordability and direct-to-consumer model has made high-quality Western boots accessible to a broader audience, whether you’re a cowboy or simply
appreciate Western fashion. All while keeping a Direct-to-Consumer Model that allows them to offer a higher quality product at lower prices.
Images via retailers
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