The Suede Situation: The Jackets We're Seeing Everywhere

Suede jackets are the outerwear story of the season, and the best ones are cut as bombers, truckers and shirt jackets rather than stiff car coats. The grids move from suede jackets to truckers, bombers, shearling-trimmed outerwear and suede shoes, all in browns, tans and deep olives. Suede wears best when it looks relaxed, so choose a soft hand over a polished finish.

The shapes from Ted Baker, Allsaints and Theory are the ones to start with. A suede bomber sits at the waist and works over a knit or a tee, while a trucker jacket has more structure through the shoulder. Both look better a little worn than brand new.

Shearling-lined and suede-trim jackets from Vince, Allsaints and Versace are the cold-weather version of the trend. The lining adds warmth without a puffer's bulk, and the collar frames the face. Expect a heavier piece, and size to fit a sweater underneath.

The suede loafers, boots and sneakers from Vince, Frame and Bottega Veneta pick up the same texture at the other end of the outfit. A dark brown suede shoe goes with a brown jacket without matching it exactly. Treat suede with a protective spray before the first wear.

Suede is not for every day in the rain, and no spray will change that. If you live somewhere wet, look at the shearling and waxed pieces first. We also would not wear suede head to toe, because it flattens the outfit.

Suede asks for a little care, but it pays back. Keep a soft brush and a protective spray at home, avoid wearing the jacket in heavy rain, and let it dry naturally if it gets wet. A well-kept suede piece can look better in its fifth year than its first.

If you take one thing away: pick one suede piece per outfit, and let it be the jacket.