12 Months of Thrifting: Suede

Welcome back to the 12 Months of Thrifting challenge. 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.

Reasons why I love this fall trend:

Suede is one of the biggest trends of the season.
From decorating with plants, to wicker, to suede fringe – the 70s 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. 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.

Suede is timeless. If following trends isn’t your thing, that’s okay too! 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 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
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).

Thrift Shopping List

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

Suede ankle boots in a brighter color like mustard or burgundy
Suede vests (with fringe)
Suede shift dress
Belted suede jackets
Faux suede blazers

Vintage suede pants
Suede trench coat
Fringe suede jacket

Share your finds with us #12MonthsofThrifting on instagram @dinasdays and @thanksitsthrifted.pod

Thanks, it’s Thrifted is a celebration of thrifting and the bond it created between two treasure-hunting friends. This monthly podcast is hosted by Dina and Shannon, two lifelong thrifters who are committed to sharing the cost, creative, and environmental benefits of secondhand shopping.