There’s no denying buttery-soft leather has our hearts, whether it comes in the form of a lovingly worn-in jacket, square-toed booties or a perfectly slouchy hobo bag. But come fall, we find ourselves reaching for another one of the season’s major fabrications. Smooth and sumptuous, suede feels uniquely fitting for right now, when the laissez-faire attitude (and style) of summer is replaced with a desire to look a little more put-together. To be a touch more specific, we’re currently seeing a deep chocolate-hued brown all over our Instagram and TikTok feeds, especially in the form of bags.
Our gut says it’s the quiet luxury effect; the understated aesthetic is rooted in timeless hues and luxe textures and brown suede is a natural take on both of those qualifying prerequisites. Add in the fact that earthy brown can feel a little less harsh than black though it still complements the jewel tones and warm hues we steer towards this time of year. All in all, it makes a lot of sartorial sense that we’re seeing brown suede bags slung on everyone’s shoulders and heaped upon their elbow crooks.
In varying sizes and silhouettes, designers’ sleek takes on the brown suede bag offer just as much versatility as its black leather counterpart. Take The Row’s ‘90s-inspired mini shoulder bag as an example; the likes of which have already spotted on Sophie Richie Grainge’s arm just last month. The streamlined baguette silhouette holds all the essentials, while delivering effortless minimalism in a petite fun-size package. By Far’s equally chic number offers a sloping handle and delicate curves for some added intrigue, while Khaite has explored a chic rounded silhouette in their hobo bag. And for anyone with a penchant for ‘70s-era style, butterscotch shades of suede are plucked straight from the decade; we’re currently fans of Saint Laurent’s slouchy, roomy shoulder bag. Ahead, we round up some of the season’s best brown suede bags to break out right now.
