Suede jacket is a staple in today’s wardrobe which we love for its full texture, gentle drape, and the way it transitions your look from casual to put together luxury. Also unlike typical smooth leather which has a shiny finish, suede has a dull sheen and textural depth that immediately takes the most basic of ensembles to the next level. But also due to its unique texture and mid weight insulating quality it is key that you pay attention to what you layer under for that put together look. This in depth guide we present goes into the best layering tips for men’s and women’s suede jackets which in turn will help you get the most out of this classic piece.
The Foundations of Suede Layering: Textural Contrast
When it comes to what to wear under suede the rule is to play with texture. Suede has a soft napped surface which means you pair it with either totally smooth fabrics or those that are very structured which in turn brings interest to the outfit.For a modern look, smooth cotton tees, fine gauge silk knit polos and sharp poplin button downs do the trick. They provide a clean canvas which in turn puts the jacket’s complex structure in the foreground. Also in the cooler months, we see a shift to rich texture play by layering in a chunky cable knit wool sweater or ribbed turtleneck under which which is ideal for autumn and winter.
Casual Luxury: Stylin’ Suede Bomber Jacket.
The Suede Bomber Jacket is a mainstay in the casual luxury market. It features ribbed cuffs, collar, and waistband which in turn present a look that is at once relaxed, sporty, and high end for any day wear.
When it comes to styling a suede bomber jacket we aim to stay true to its casual origin while at the same time dress up the look. A premium heavy weight white or heather grey organic cotton t-shirt is the best choice for a solid base. For a more put together look which still has that easy going feel for casual Friday’s or dinner out, try a light weight knit polo or a denim western shirt. The structured collar of a denim shirt against the soft rounded neck line of a bomber jacket creates a very stylish, classic casual look.
Sophisticated Structure: Men’s Suede Coats.
When it comes to men’s suede jackets what we find is the range of styles which you can wear out is very wide which includes the rugged trucker style, a sleek café racer, or a tailored suede blazer. For a casual day out in these jackets a well fitted crew neck in neutral tones such as heather oatmeal, charcoal or navy pairs really well with the earth tones of traditional brown or tan suede.
If you go for a smart casual office look, try out a light blue chambray or a white Oxford cloth button down (OCD) shirt under your jacket. For the final touch of the look which we could term as put together, leave out the sports shoes and go for a set of matching suede loafers or smooth suede boots. This repeat of texture from the jacket to the shoes brings in that element of design intent and care to your overall look.
Elegance and Edge: Women’s Suede Jackets
In the world of women’s suede jackets there is a great stage for playing with masculine structure and feminine elegance. From cropped belted biker styles to flowy draped waterfall coats, suede brings a touch of luxury to a woman’s wardrobe.
For a put together chic look try a form fitting ribbed turtleneck which is a great piece to wear under a structured suede jacket. The smooth body hugging quality of the knit does what the leather jacket doesn’t do which is to break up any boxiness or weight. For a more transitional and bohemian look in your outfit try layering in a light weighted silk or chiffon floral print midi dress under a cropped suede jacket which creates a beautiful contrast of hard and soft elements. To pull the look together go for knee high suede boots in a matching tone which will lengthen the figure and give the outfit a put together high fashion feel.
Footwear Synergy: Shoes that fit the casual look vs. those for the formal occasion.
What you wear at your feet is a critical piece in the sueded out puzzle which also include the piece of what is under your jacket when you are going for a full suede look. We can change the play with textures to really transform how you present your style.
- Suede Loafers: In every season from spring through fall to that in between time, and for a casual yet put together look, our go to is a tan or dark brown suede bomber jacket paired with matching色调的 loafer. This is a look which pairs well with tailored pants, chinos, or short jeans and which exudes a very laid back high end European feel.
- Suede Boots: As the temperature drops we see the transition into suede boots in the Chelsea, Chukka, and classic lace up styles which bring a more rough and ready, practical touch to the overall look. This is very effective for men’s suede jackets as well as women’s styles which as a whole gives off a put together and professional yet still luxurious and textural feel head to toe.
Color Palette Coordination for Suede Outerwear
Because the primary colors for suede jackets are earth tones like camel, tobacco, espresso, forest green, and stone grey your under layers should complement these rich organic What to Wear Under a Suede Jackethues.
Monochrome and toned down dressing is a simple way to come off as very expensive; I put together a camel suede bomber jacket with an ecru knit sweater and cream trousers which creates a great looking and very put together look. If you prefer a contrast in colors go for cool tones which will balance out the natural warm tones of the leather. Navy, slate gray, and bright white are great to use to balance in the natural warm tones of brown suede which in turn makes your jacket the star of the show in that outfit.
Frequently Asked Questions: Suede Outerwear Styling
Q1: Can you wear a hoodie under a suede jacket?
A: You can go with a hoodie under a suede jacket for a casual, warm and casual look.
Q2: Should my footwear match the color of my suede jacket?
A: No, while your shoes do not have to be a exact match to your suede jacket they should play off the color and style of the rest of your outfit.
Q3: What shirt color looks best under a brown suede jacket?
A: Brown suede jacket looks great with white, cream, black, navy, and light blue shirts which will give you a classic, put together look.
Q4: How do I style a suede jacket for a smart-casual office?
A: In a smart casual office setting style a suede jacket with a button down shirt, chinos or tailored pants, and clean loafers or Chelsea boots.
Q5: Can I wear a suede jacket during transitional spring and autumn weather?
A: Yes in spring and autumn a great choice is a suede jacket which adds a touch of light warmth and stylish layering without being too heavy.