"Every year, like clockwork, as the leaves begin to change colors, black leather booties return from their place in storage. It’s as if the Sanderson Sisters themselves cast an eternal spell on women everywhere: “On the first day of fall, when the temps are juuuuuust right, a black boot will summon us by the end of the night.” While it might be controversial, I believe it’s time to break the enchantment. This fall is signaling for us to take a break from our ole’ black leather boots and step into something a bit more 2024 coded: a suede pair, that is.
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Although I think that no fall wardrobe is complete without a pair of black boots, there is such a thing as too much of a good thing. Our black booties will always have a spot in our hearts—at this point, many of us have been in a relationship with ours for the better half of a decade—but frankly, this season’s suede pairs feel like a well-deserved upgrade.
Ready for a swap? From knee-high boots to Western-inspired pairs that will be a seamless swap for your go-to black booties, here are this season’s must-have suede boots.
Suede Knee-High Boots
I think everyone, and I mean everyone, could benefit from owning a pair of knee-high boots. A quality pair of knee-highs extends the shelf life of some of my favorite summer staples: bermuda shorts, mini skirts—the list goes on. Knee-high boots have been my fall hero piece for years, helping me to create my most-complimented looks to date. My favorite way to style them at the moment? With a silky mini skirt, a textured crewneck sweater, and a delicious suede coat.
Suede Ankle Boots
Please, I’m begging you: proceed with caution here. Not all ankle boots were created equal. One wrong step (literally), and you’re at risk for a repeat of 2012. One dead giveaway? Apologies in advance: noticeable side elastics. (I know, I said I was sorry). Instead, you’ll want to opt for a pair with a zipper closure, preferably with a kitten heel rather than a block heel. When worn with denim or trousers, the slimmer profile will help to create a more sophisticated, elongated silhouette.
Slouchy Suede Boots
This month, as fashion’s global it-girls gathered for Paris Fashion Week (sadly, no Emily Cooper sightings), it became apparent that slouchy boots had returned from their years-long hiatus. Prevailing among them? Varying shades of brown suede, as seen on industry insiders styled with tailored midi skirts and oversized blazers.
Suede Cowboy Boots
These days, it seems like everything’s coming up Western—or at the very least, Western-adjacent. From bell-bottoms to fringe jackets, the Cowboy Carter effect is alive and well for fall 2024. While you could go the traditional cowboy boot route, there are also more subtle options, like the scalloped pair pictured above.
How to Take Care of Suede
In the past, we may have considered suede’s required level of care a deterrent; however, today’s assortment of suede protectants make caring for the sensitive material easier than ever. In order to protect against the elements, before breaking out your suede boots, treat them with a suede protectant spray. You can also use a suede brush to treat the wear and tear that inevitably comes with footwear.
The Best Suede Boots of Fall 2024
Tinsley Crisp, Fashion & Beauty Staff Writer
Tinsley Crisp is a Fashion & Beauty Staff Writer at The Everygirl and specializes in reporting on the season’s latest trends and hottest products. As a New York City-based stylist, she’s committed to injecting joy into the art of getting dressed and delivering attainable yet aspirational content to our readers.