It's time to invest in a suede jacket

From the classic bomber to the supple safari, here are the best suede jackets to pull on this spring...

RaThere are few things more effortlessly, elegantly cool than a good suede jacket. It’s got all the style and strut of its leather cousin, but without the shiny self-importance. True, it might not be as hard-wearing as leather — suede has a napped finish, and is cut from the underside of animal skin rather than the topside — but this fine fabric is immeasurably more versatile than its tougher brother; softer and less likely to crack over time.

And, with spring in the air, you’ll soon find that your winter coats are getting a little too toasty for the warmer weather — but that your summer jackets are still that little bit too light. Enter this bunch of suede saviours, which will help you see in the season in brushed, laid-back style…

A suede bomber is the bomb

suede jacket
suede jacket

The bomber jacket is a classic design — and one that has never really dipped out of fashion since it first took flight. So named for the crew members of the US Air Force who originated the style, it is traditionally loosely-cut, and has cuffs, a waistband and a shapely elasticated collar.

Your bomber jacket of choice may, like this lambskin option from Brioni, have a more stand-up collar knitted from contrasting ribbed wool. Others, like Ralph Lauren’s brown bomber — cut from supple water-repellent suede — instead choose a subtle complementary colour for their collar. Or, for a modern spin on the traditional, trust Sandro to offer up an alternative.

Ralph Lauren bomber jacket

Ralph Lauren bomber jacket

£949

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Sandro bomber jacket

Sandro bomber jacket

£829

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Mr P bomber jacket

Mr P bomber jacket

£695

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There’s no grey area when it comes to colours

suede jacket
suede jacket

Tan, brown and black may be the go-to hues for most leather jackets — but, when you opt for softer suede, you should also think about switching up your colour choice. Tempering your tone and opting for a lighter shade may mean going for stone or camel — but we’d nudge you towards the little-worn grey.

It’s an oft-overlooked colour, and we can’t see why. Just look at Emporio Armani's collared jacket made from exquisitely soft suede and perfect for throwing over a lightweight knit jumper or a classic white T-shirt. Givenchy's bomber is a luxe take on a classic and is a steely, multi-pocketed option. Meanwhile Belstaff's jacket is a sturdy grey high-collared bomber.

Emporio Armani suede jacket

Emporio Armani suede jacket

£990

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Givenchy suede jacket

Givenchy suede jacket

£3250

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Belstaff suede jacket

Belstaff suede jacket

£895

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Keep things classic with a collar

suede jacket
suede jacket

And then there’s the old faithful. As close to the classic leather jacket as suede can swing it, the collared suede jacket is a retro mainstay. Not only does it allow you to channel seventies style, but you’ll also be blessed with a jacket that pairs perfectly with loose tees, flannel shirts, and collars and ties alike.

Loro Piana’s suede jacket is blessed with wrist cuffs, a sturdy zip and is the perfect option to navigate even the trickiest of transitional seasons. Wax London has introduced a boxier option with this unlined brown suede jacket. And Drake’s design, as you can imagine, hums with heritage and is a sophisticated take on a classic piece.

Loro Piana suede jacket

Loro Piana suede jacket

£5190

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Drake's suede jacket

Drake's suede jacket

£1493

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Wax London jacket

Wax London jacket

£350

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Looking to complete your ensemble? These are the 24 wardrobe essentials every man needs

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