Suede Spotlight: Unveiling the Hottest Bags

If you’re seeking a summer-ready handbag that’s equally suitable for winter, consider suede, the luxurious sister material to leather. Essentially the underside of an animal skin, suede is soft, pliable, and luxurious. And while it certainly can be used for structured bags, like the coveted Hermès Doblis and Grizzly, suede also lends itself beautifully to slouchy, bohemian yet elegant vibes, ideal for pairing with lightweight maxi dresses and rompers. Fortunately, luxury brands are embracing suede this season, and there are plenty of top-tier options to elevate your summer style.

Let’s take a closer look at the top suede handbag picks that are leading the charge this season.

Celine - Conti

When it comes to ‘new’ Celine, it’s not all about the Triomphe. Enter the Celine Conti Bag in Suede Calfskin, a standout from the brand’s Summer 2023 runway, and a reimagining of Hedi Slimane’s Cabas bag from the London archives. Boasting a one-size-fits-all silhouette, measuring 24 x 26 x 15 cm (13 x 10 x 6 inches), the Conti channels a slouchy and relaxed feel. The attention is in the details here, including hand-done saddle stitching, unique heat sealing, and metal feet to protect the base.

Image courtesy: Celine

Image courtesy: Celine

With a design reminiscent of The Row’s Margaux but embracing a less subdued luxury approach, the Conti is adorned with bright gold-tone hardware, including a cloche clés, perfectly complementing its otherwise minimalist design. The adjustable leather belt detailing offers versatility – allowing you to adjust the bag for a sleek appearance and a more relaxed vibe when worn open. Inside, practicality meets luxury with three pockets, including a zippered one, adding a touch of organization.

The Conti Bag, with a 17 cm (7 inches) handle drop, is designed for both shoulder carry and hand-held wear. Its leather belt not only keeps the handles securely together for security but also ensures they stay comfortably in place on the shoulder, preventing slipping. While the Conti’s size may not lend itself to evening wear, its timeless design will transcend trends and seasons.

Currently, the Conti is offered in Black and Brown suede calfskin and retails for €5,000 (£4,600/$7,200). For an exotic flair, there’s the Celine Conti Bag in Crocodile Embossed Suede Calfskin in the Pecan shade, retailing at €5,300 (£4,950/$7,700).

Saint Laurent - Tanger

Hobos bags remain a staple this season, and among them is Saint Laurent’s suede hobo, the Tanger. Departing from the brand’s signature oversized totes like the Icare Maxi and boldly branded Cassandre-adorned bags, the Tanger offers a sleek minimalist design.

Bottega Veneta - Large Hop

While Bottega’s Jodie in suede continues to hold its charm, a fresh contender has stepped into the spotlight – the Hop. Unveiled as part of Bottega’s Winter 2023 collection, the Hop shares a silhouette reminiscent of the beloved Jodie but with a touch more structure, offering a more timeless appeal.

With a single-handle design akin to the Jodie but sans the signature knot detail, the Hop brings a fresh perspective to Bottega’s iconic Intrecciato woven aesthetic. Its wide strap ensures a comfortable hand or shoulder, adding to its versatility. The Hop features a flap-over closure secured with a magnetic fastening.

Image courtesy: @weworewhat

Currently available in three sizes, including the generously sized Large, this suede bag measures 24 x 54 x 13 cm (9.4 x 21.3 x 5.21 inches). Priced at €3,500 (£3,140/$4,400), and offered in the rich Brown hue, it’s a fabulous – zipper-free – alternative to the Jodie.

The Row - Soft Margaux

The Row Soft Margaux in Suede is one of the most coveted bags right now, epitomizing quiet luxury. Crafted with precision in supple suede, this top-handle bag boasts a softly structured silhouette with belted gusseted side panels and an interior toggle closure.

Image courtesy: @weworewhat

The Margaux design combines modern aesthetics with practical elements – two interior card slots and one zipper pocket for a well-organized bag. This sought-after piece measures 38 x 29 x 16 cm (15 x 11 x 9 inches), offering ample space without compromising its chic silhouette.

Image courtesy: @weworewhat

Image courtesy: @weworewhat

Priced at €4,930 (£4,220/$4,550) the Soft Margaux 15 Bag in Suede is certainly on the pricier side, however, it is an investment in both style and functionality. Whether you choose the versatile Black or the sophisticated Mocha, the Soft Margaux 15 Bag in Suede stands out as a must-have accessory for 2024.

Image courtesy: @dana_zkt

Little Liffner - Mega Sprout Tote

Scandinavian brand Little Liffner is making waves with its contemporary leather goods, embracing a ‘less is more’ philosophy. Admired for its modern minimalism and more budget-friendly price points, Little Liffner is definitely a brand to watch.

Image courtesy: @_jessicaskye

The Mega Sprout Tote offers a luxurious suede handbag at an impressive price. Retailing for €595 (£660/$625), this refined yet slouchy oversized tote features a snap button closure and internal zip pocket.

Minimalist in its design, the Mega Sprout features small details that elevate its otherwise classic silhouette. The handles are secured with a distinctive design, adding a unique touch. Designed with a handle drop of 26 cm (10.2 inches), the bag comfortably sits on the shoulder, and thanks to its supple suede construction, it slouches elegantly against the body.

Image courtesy: @lucyalston_

Image courtesy: @lucyalston_

Crafted from treated suede that resists transfer and wears beautifully, this bold tote measures 35 x 58 x 28 cm (13.8 x 22.8 x 11 inches). It comfortably accommodates a 13-15 inch laptop and has ample room for all your essentials, making it versatile enough for a chic weekend bag.

Image courtesy: @lucky_girl_h

Available in a range of neutral shades including Chestnut, Black, Dark Brown, Light Brown, and Rhum suede, the Mega Sprout Tote is a regular sell-out, so be sure to join the waiting list.

Image courtesy: @tanyaburr

Saint Laurent - Jamie 4.3 in Suede

First released in Spring 2018, the Saint Laurent Jamie 4.3 in suede is proving to be a present-day hit.

The Jamie 4.3 in suede, exudes oversized luxe appeal. Constructed in Soft Nappa Suede, the flap design bag is adorned with quilted ‘Carré Rive Gauche’ top stitching detailing.

Despite its generous size, the Jamie 4.3 maintains a lightweight feel. Its spacious interior, with dimensions measuring 43 x 29 x 9 cm (16.9 x 11.4 x 3.5 inches), provides ample room for your daily essentials and more, making it an ideal companion for everyday errands and travel.

Enhancing its sophistication, the Jamie 4.3 boasts a delicate gold-tone chain detailing. This sliding chain, adorned with the brand’s signature Le Maillon chainrings, is adjustable for versatile wear. The bag can be worn with a single chain, doubled, or with a modern crossbody twist, one chain on the shoulder and the other across the body.

Offered in rich brown caramel suede, the Saint Laurent Jamie 4.3 is priced at €3,800 (£3,480/$4,600). Whether you’re drawn to its oversized charm or the intricate quilted detailing, the Jamie 4.3 is a fantastic alternative to last year’s coveted YSL Icare maxi.

Is a suede bag on your radar this season? Are you intrigued by The Row’s Margaux, or do you have your heart set on a Hermès Grizzly Birkin?

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