There’s something unmistakably '70s about suede.
It was the uniform of the decade – cut into styles ranging from skin-tight flares and halter neck tops to clean-lined blazers and shirts. Often adorned with western tassels and beads (if you were lucky), suede was a symbol of counterculture dressing that phased out in the 80s before returning in sleeker, more minimalistic fashion in the 90s.
Suede, however, has never strictly been out of fashion. It’s always been a coveted material – prized for its sumptuously soft and richly coloured exterior. What’s interesting, however, is its shift from defining the hippie culture of the 1960s and 70s, to representing a luxurious investment in contemporarily stylish outerwear. Suedeheads, a British subculture of the 70s, straddled the two – they were an offshoot of the skinhead movement, but prized more polished style, tailored clothing, and – of course – suede shoes.
Though it can’t be said for sure, the distinction can largely be chalked down to continental differences. Americans were more likely to sport cowboy-appropriate designs, while London-dwelling Brits opted for city-ready streetwear.
Either way, suede jackets in particular remain vintage treasures – with collectors all over the globe vying for the perfect 70s piece in camel-toned suede with minimal cigarette burns and whiskey stains. Buying new, however, ensures premium quality, sumptuous softness, and vintage-inspired flair.
Plus, modern designs are crafted with modern cuts in mind. With high-waisted Levi’s slowly being replaced with low and mid-rise denim with barrel-legged finishes, it’s important to opt for a suede jacket that complements a 2020s silhouette.
I’ve curated a selection of the most stylish suede jackets for autumn/winter 2025 below.
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All Saints Clay Funnel Neck Suede Cropped Jacket
There’s something so Jonathan Anderson about this cognac brown suede bomber from AllSaints. Perhaps it's the subtly vintage aesthetic, or its utilitarian yet soft and stylish silhouette. Either way, it’s going straight in my basket.
Buy now £479.00, AllSaints
AND/OR Serena Pure Suede Jacket, Chocolate
It’s rare to come across a suede number in such a rich, mocha hue. This option from AND/OR is cut like a shacket, making it the perfect middle ground between luxury and throw-on comfort.
Buy now £249.00, John Lewis
Massimo Dutti Cropped Suede Leather-Lined Jacket
All soft edges and sumptuous suede, there’s something oh-so 60s about this jacket from Massimo Dutti. The matching buttons make it feel all the more premium.
Buy now £299.00, Massimo Dutti
Topshop Faux Suede Patch Pocket Boxy Jacket In Brown
A faux suede option that won’t break the bank, Topshop’s boxy jacket is realised in a mid-chocolate brown and falls to just below the hip.
Buy now £76.00, ASOS
Gerard Darel Norah Suede Jacket, Cinnamon
Warm-toned and more than ready to take on autumn in the city, this Noughties-inspired jacket feels like something that would’ve found its way into Rachel Green’s wardrobe.
Buy now £495.00, John Lewis
Stradivarius 100% Leather Jacket with Pockets
Offered in a classic 70s warm camel suede, this long suede jacket is crafted form 100 per cent sheep leather and features a stylish and practical pleat at the back.
Buy now £129.00, Stradivarius
Whistles Black Tassel Suede Jacket
Suede and tassels go together like wine and cheese. This western-style option from Whistles is offered in a city-ready jet black hue for a timeless look.
Buy now £429.00, Whistles
Found Suede Western Barn Jacket
Turn heads with this uniquely bright-green suede barn jacket from Found – which is complete with a stylish leather collar and subtle western details.
Buy now £478.00, Free People
Mint Velvet Red Suede Pocket Detail Jacket
Though offered in a variety of autumnal hues, this red-toned suede jacket from Mint Velvet is by far my favourite. Set to jazz up each and every seasonal ensemble you dare to sport, it features a classic collar and lovely square front pockets. Worried about getting caught in British showers? Pair with a lightweight trench over the top.
Buy now £285.00, Mint Velvet
Rixo Denver Velvet Jacket
Though not strictly suede, this velvet number from Rixo poses as such – thanks to its deep brown and ochre hue. This makes it slightly easier to achieve suave suede aesthetics, without the worry of ruining outerwear in the rain.
Buy now £365.00, Rixo
