Suede, known for its velvety texture, creates a sense of refinement that leather alternatives sometimes can’t match. From nubuck to Hermes’ Veau Doblis, suede makes even the most minimal designs feel indulgent. As stunning as suede is, its delicate nature often makes it intimidating for handbag enthusiasts. In this article, we’ll explore why suede is such a favorite among luxury designers, share a few favorite suede bags, offer tips on caring for your suede handbags, and how to keep them looking pristine for years to come.
Suede vs. Nubuck
Though suede and nubuck often get confused, they are actually quite different.
Suede is a type of leather from the underside of animal hide, most commonly lamb, goat, or calf. Its signature texture, created through a careful buffing process, produces a soft, fuzzy surface. This plush texture looks and feels luxurious but is also highly susceptible to wear, stains, and moisture.
Nubuck is a type of leather from the top of the animal hide with a surface gently brushed and buffed to create a soft texture. Nubuck is more durable than suede. Now, let’s get into the bags!
Popular Suede Handbags for Your Collection
Many of the top ultra-luxury brands incorporate suede into their handbag collections because it elevates designs and offers an alternative to leather. If you feel ecstatic about suede, here are a few bags to consider adding to your collection:
How to Care for Your Ultra-Luxury Suede Handbags
Taking care of your luxury suede bags is essential. It’s crucial to understand how suede reacts to external elements. While undeniably stunning, suede is sensitive to moisture, oils, and dirt. The natural oils on your hands can darken suede over time.
Suede doesn’t do well in wet or humid conditions: if there’s even a 5% chance of rain, carry another bag! If your bag gets damp, blot it gently with a dry microfiber cloth and let it air dry. Similarly, minimize handling suede when your hands are wet, oily, or freshly lotioned.
How to Protect Suede Bags When You’re Not Using Them
Quick action is key to maintaining suede. With consistent care and attention, your suede handbags can stay in like-new condition for years. Let’s dive into general care, cleaning, and proper storage.
We encourage you to love and use your suede bags, but we also recommend that you avoid putting your bag on the floor, don’t wear it in the rain, and don’t stack it on top of your bag.
Proper storage is one of the easiest ways to maintain the beauty of your suede handbags, especially during off-seasons. When you’re not using it, stuff your bag to hold its shape with soft fabric, tissue paper, or an air pillow to maintain its shape. I like using a pillowcase stuffed with other small accessories.
Store your bag in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can fade its color over time. Place your suede bag inside its original dust bag or your FASHIONPHILE dust bag to protect it from dust and scratches. Keep the bag in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat sources, which can fade or dry out the suede. When stored properly, your suede bags will be ready to shine whenever you decide to bring them out.
How to Clean Suede Handbags
Even with preventative care, suede bags can pick up dirt, stains, and scuffs over time. Cleaning suede may seem tricky, but you can restore your bag’s beauty. Start with the right tools: microfiber cloth, suede brush, rubber eraser, and rubbing alcohol or white vinegar.
Step-by-Step Suede Cleaning Instructions
Suede is prone to water spots, scratches, and scuffs, meaning it requires extra TLC. The good news is that caring for suede isn’t as daunting as it may seem—it just requires a little patience and the right tools.
Brush Away Dirt and Dust
Use a suede brush to gently remove surface dirt.
Tackle Scuffs with a Suede Eraser
For scuffs and minor stains, gently rub the area with a suede eraser.
Spot Clean with White Vinegar or Rubbing Alcohol
For deeper stains, dampen a microfiber cloth with a small amount of white vinegar or rubbing alcohol. Dab the stain gently until it lifts. Don’t rub! Then, allow the area to air dry completely.
Fluff the Suede
After cleaning, use the suede brush to restore the softness and uniform appearance.
Suede: Worth the Investment
There’s something undeniably special about suede. Yes, suede requires more maintenance than other materials, but its luxurious look will make it worthwhile. Next time you’re admiring a suede handbag and wondering if it’s worth the commitment, let the answer be a yes. With the tips above, you’ll be ready to give your suede bags the love they deserve, ensuring they stay as beautiful.
Get in touch with our helpful Personal Shoppers for custom suede recommendations from our collection of ultra-luxury bags and accessories based on the person you’re shopping for. Contact our Personal Shoppers by emailing personalshopper@fashionphile.com or at (332) 777-7113.
