Welcome back to the 12 Months of Thrifting Challenge. It’s officially fall y’all! This month we’re thrifting and styling suede. Real, vegan, or faux – doesn’t matter, as long as it’s secondhand.
If you’re wondering: is suede still in style? YES! It never left. Here are my top reasons why you should embrace this fall trend:
- Suede is one of the biggest trends of the season. From decorating with plants, to wicker, to suede fringe – the 70’s nostalgia is back in full swing. Because it’s such a hot trend this fall, you’re going to see a lot of inspiration from major brands, which makes it easier to find suede styles when you’re out thrifting. Pro tip: screenshot or take pictures of your inspiration and try to find a similar style at Goodwill.
- If following trends isn’t your thing, that’s okay too! Suede is timeless. It’s a classy and rich texture that makes any outfit look put together. Fashion is constantly repeating itself so use these modern designs to find their original counterparts at thrift stores.
- Suede complements a lot of prints including floral, animal and paisley.
A few style tips to remember: when styling suede, stick to either real or faux suede and avoid mixing the two. Suede pieces in neutral colors are always a winner! So if you aren’t sure, start there. Avoid overly cheap faux suede.
How to clean suede
These are a few cleaning techniques I’ve either tried or have heard from others in thrift community. Always test on a small area before you clean the entire item.
- Machine wash faux suede (I’ve tried this but always check the care label).
- Spot clean real suede with a leather cleaner (search major retail drugstores or leather apparel stores for cleaners).
- Disinfect suede in the dryer on low heat with a dryer sheet (I tried this with fake leather and it worked).
- Treat stains with a suede brush and white vinegar. (I have not personally tried this but lots of people online swear by this method).
- Dry clean by a leather specialist.
- Once it’s all clean or if it’s already clean, seal suede with a suede fabric spray that you can get at most stores.
- Use talcum powder or cornmeal to treat a liquid spill (I’ve tried this and it worked).
Ready to shop? Every month we provide you with a handy shopping list so when you’re out thrifting at Goodwill you can easily find this month’s thrift theme.
Mild:
Need time to warm up to this trend? Try searching for these items:
- Suede moto jacket. You can start with neutrals like black or brown. To level this up, try a mustard or burgundy jacket.
- Suede purses (clutches, tote bags, backpacks). Look for cool vintage shapes and colors. Suede fringe bags are always in style.
- Suede ankle boots in a neutral color.
Medium:
Ready to take it up a notch? Look for these items at Goodwill:
- Suede ankle boots in a brighter color like mustard or burgundy.
- Suede vests (with fringe).
- Suede shift dress.
- Belted suede jackets.
- Faux suede blazers.
Spicy:
Okay, hot stuff! These bold pieces are sure to make a statement. Add these to your Goodwill wish list:
- Vintage suede pants.
- Suede trench coat.
- Fringe suede jacket.
Want more style and thrifting inspiration? Tune into the Allow us to Rethriftrodeuce Ourselves podcast and hear us discuss this month’s thrift theme.
