From decorating with plants, to wicker, to suede fringe – the 70s nostalgia is back in full swing. Because it’s such a major trend this fall, you’ll see suede-inspired looks from big-name brands everywhere, which makes it easier to find similar styles when thrifting. But even if following trends isn’t your thing, suede is still worth hunting for.
It’s a timeless texture that instantly makes any outfit look more polished. Fashion always repeats itself, so use today’s modern designs to find their original counterpart at the thrift store. Suede also complements a lot of prints, including floral, animal and paisley, making it one of the most versatile textures in your closet.
Pro tip: screenshot or take pictures of your inspiration and try to find a similar style at Goodwill. I did that with this green suede trench. I was thriftspired by Amal Clooney and Naomi Campbell’s $4,000 Burberry green trench coat , and I found my own version for $4 at Goodwill Akron. Styling Tips for Suede
- Stick to either real or faux suede and avoid mixing the two.
- Start with neutral colors like camel, tan or black as they are easy to style.
- When you’re ready to go bold, try mustard, pink, green, or burgundy.
- Avoid overly cheap faux suede, it can pill or lose texture quickly.
How to clean suede:
These are a few cleaning techniques I’ve either tried or have heard from others in the thrift community. Always test on a small area before you clean the entire item.
- Machine wash faux suede on gentle (always check the care label).
- Spot clean real suede with a leather cleaner (available at most retail stores or leather shops)
- Disinfect suede in the dryer on low heat with a dryer sheet. You can also try at-home dry-cleaning kits like Dryell that basically follow this same technique.
- 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
- Seal suede with a suede fabric spray to protect it from future stains
- Use talcum powder or cornmeal to treat a liquid spill (I’ve tested this and it worked).
Goodwill Thrift Shopping List
- Suede purses (clutches, tote bags, backpacks) Look for cool vintage shapes and colors.
- Suede ankle boots in a neutral color
- Suede mules or clogs
- Suede vests (bonus if fringed!)
- Suede jackets (belted, fringe, trench, moto)
- Faux suede blazers
Whether you’re drawn to the 70s vibe or simply love the texture, thrifting suede is not only a timeless fashion staple, but it’s also a sustainable choice that keeps quality pieces in circulation and out of landfills.