Suddenly Suede

I’ve got nothing against suede, but while shopping I just don’t find myself reaching for suede items too often. Maybe it’s the fear/misconception that it’s too fragile and I’ll ruin it in two wears. Regardless, I recently upgraded my closest with a few suede pieces and have a new affinity for velvety leather.
Suede is just leather with the flesh-side brushed to create that signature “velvety” feel. I fell in love with the casual Nubuck Hoodie from Vince. This hybrid between a coat and a hoodie is simply perfect. It’s a smaller sized jacket and has a higher rise similar to the crop on a bomber. I really appreciate the ribbed Ottoman stitched leather cuffs – it’s my pet peeve when a jacket or outer layer doesn’t have a proper cuff on the sleeve. The drawstring hoodie has a nice waffled interior that contrasts the soft and uniform texture of the suede. And y’all! It’s so soft and comfortable. As the winter in Chicago hasn’t been crazy-bad, I’ve found this is the perfect weight and layer for me. It also travels pretty well as I’ve stuffed it into my Away suitcase on numerous trips already.
What will for sure be my go-to sneakers this spring are Vince’s Luke Sport Suede Sneaker. Their minima, sport and  sleek take on the sneaker hits the nail on the head. These go with nearly every look I can possibly come up with in my closet. Oh, and did I mention.. THEY’RE SUEDE?! These bad boys are comfortable too. I can’t wait for the warmer months to rock them with some shorts.
I do love the only suede items I’ve own –  my Clarks Desert Boots – and have featured them quite often here on Risky Jackal. Mostly because I live in them – and I really have beat them to death. They still keep-up nicely and every once in a while I’ll have to use my secret weapon on them, a suede eraser and brush. To be honest, I didn’t think this gimmick would work at all (it’s under $5!). But it gets out stains, water marks and blemishes as they get dirty from urban wear in Chicago and traveling. I’d recommend investing in a little suede kit if you’re looking into getting any kind of suede shoe. note: not sponsored by La Croix, but why not.. yano? 

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Stay Risky,

– John

Photography by Wesley Taylor