Suede was made for summer. It’s soft, easy-going and can’t stand getting wet — much like the rest of us when the warmer weather rolls around. But how to fold this napped, brushed leather into your summer wardrobe?
There are light jackets, but they’re more suited to springtime. Gloves, of course, await winter. But sneakers — with their flexible soles and smart-casual appeal — are ideally suited to summer. So, whether you’re looking for a pair of laceless slip-ons or trainers inspired by retro athletic styles, we’ve kicked together a suede-centric list of the best below…
Unseen Footwear ‘Clement’ Sneakers
Let’s kick off with some vintage-styled kicks. From Unseen Footwear, these ‘Clement’ sneakers have been designed to evoke the classic basketball silhouette — and will make the perfect everyday trainer for summer. Standing on durable, long-lasting soles and brushed in an ultra-versatile shade of navy, they’re an affordable, adaptable option.
Scarosso ‘Ugo Marrone Scamosciato’ Sneakers
Lacing some autumnal colours into the warm weather mix, Scarosso’s sun-drenched, burnished brown ‘Ugo Marrone Scamosciato’ sneakers are handmade in Italy — and could the smart-casual saviour your wardrobe has been missing. With brown laces, a leather lining and comfy collar, the style is as snug as it is sophisticated.
Uniform Standard ‘Series 2’ Sneakers
If it’s ease you’re looking for, it’s time to slip these slip-on sneakers into your summer style rotation. Innovatively stitched together by Uniform Standard, the minimalist design may look simple — but every touch adds another level of comfort, from the recycled moulded footbed to the hand-stitched, contrast back collar.
Oliver Cabell ‘GAT’ Sneakers
Another athletic-inspired design, Oliver Cabell’s multi-tone ‘GAT’ sneakers take their crepe-soled style cues from vintage tennis trainers. Lined with vegetable-tanned Spanish leather, detailed with Italian suede and secured with waxed cotton laces, they’re a sporty option whether you’re hitting the court — or the town.
Aurélien ‘Cambridge’ Sneakers
Grey may not be the warmest of shades — but Aurélien’s light, bright and breathable suede sneaker steps the occasionally-bland colour into the intoxicating, hazy days of summer. These low-tops are lined with smooth leather and sewn onto durable leather soles, affording them a contemporary air and airy construction.
Unseen Footwear ‘Trinity’ Sneakers
They may not wholly be suede, but Unseen Footwear’s multi-material ‘Trinity’ sneakers champion the bold, brushed fabric. Paired with a technical mesh, the suede panels add a slick touch to an otherwise sporty shoe — one fitted with a padded ankle collar, corrugated Vibram toe cap and contrast laces.
Uniform Standard ‘Series 1’ Sneakers
Blessed with texture — but the same bright colour as a summer sky — the ‘Series 1’ sneaker from Uniform Standard is the perfect suede trainer for the season. It’s also a must-buy for environmentalists; thanks to recycled footbeds, cellulose insole boards, rubber outsoles and handy cotton drawstring shoe bag.
Scarosso ‘Ryan’ Sneakers
Similarly styled to Oliver Cabell’s ‘GAT’ sneakers above, Scarosso’s Italian iteration of the traditional athletics trainer once again only uses suede as a trim. But it’s those mid-grey flashes of the napped fabric that bring out the bright white of the leather — and set off the vintage-tinged natural colour of the flat rubber sole.
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