Suede gives a stylish yet cozy feel to handbags. It is understated and subtle - ideal for when you want to make a classy, casual, and simple style statement rather than a flashy one. Popularized in recent years by the cross-body style with tassel fringe, which is a great go-to accessory for any casual or weekend event, the suede bag has managed to stick around and prove it's not a one-trick pony.
Cross-body
A cross-body bag is characterized by a long shoulder strap which enables the wearer to put it across the body, and the bag usually sits at hip level. While this style is popular in suede with a fringed design, it is also sleek and stylish without fringe as well.
The Marc Jacobs Trooper cross-body bag is available at Zappos for around $200 (including free shipping). It is available in three colors: midnight blue, black, and a spicy reddish-brown shade. This bag has a top zipper fastener, an adjustable shoulder strap, and exterior and interior pockets. This is the perfect sized handbag to fit a few everyday essentials such as your purse, keys, and phone.
As confirmed by The Independent online, cross-body bags are a classic style that will never go out of fashion. They're stylish, practical, and the perfect size.
Clutch
The clutch bag first grew in popularity amongst celebrities during the 1920s and 30s. Today, it is usually worn for special and evening occasions, and remains a popular handbag choice for attending weddings, and going out to bars and clubs.
Check out this set of personalized envelope clutch bags on Amazon by Posh Totty. Available in nine different colors, and with a personalized metal triangle tag - these make the perfect gift for your loved ones or for yourself. Priced at about $60, this clutch bag also comes with a detachable extended strap so that you can wear this as a shoulder bag if desired.
Tote
Usually made out of a simple canvas material, this style in suede was made popular post-recession. Anya Hindmarch rose to fame in 2007 when she designed her 'I'm not a plastic bag' tote, which caused a huge rise in demand for slogan tote bags. Canvas tote and shopper style bags remain popular today, particularly as an alternative to plastic bags.
The rainbow sky printed suede tote bag by Anya Hindmarch, available from Matches Fashion, is priced at around $1500 This is one of the more expensive tote bags on the market, but the design is simply beautiful, and will really ensure you stand out in a crowd.
Another option that is a bit more affordable is the Maison Martin Margiela tote, which is priced at about $340. The gorgeous black suede and electric blue interior make it a stylish, versatile bag that is perfect for everyday errands.
Satchel
The leather satchel has been around for centuries, but grew in popularity in the 17th century as a fashion accessory. Then in 2008, New York label Proenza Schouler released a traditional school-inspired satchel named the PS1. At the time, it was described as the 'anti-It-bag', but quickly grew in popularity after being spotted on the arms of many celebs. Since then, this traditional handbag style has acquired and maintained appeal with the more casual and vintage-loving fashion customer.
Get your hands on Rebecca Minkoff's Regan satchel today, which is available for about $350 from Nordstrom. It comes in four different color options, and has double-carry handles as well as a detachable cross-body strap. It comes with a zip fastener, interior and exterior pockets, jacquard lining, and protective metal feet.
Bucket
The origin of the bucket shaped bag dates back to the 1930s and 40s, which can be seen in this brief history illustrated by editorials from early Vogue magazines. This was then re-invented by Cashin for Coach in the 1960s, and made yet another comeback in the 80s and early 90s. Mansur Gavriel's simplistic 2012 design of the bucket bag has been labelled the 'First Post-Recession It Bag', and caused a surge in popularity and high street copies of this style.
This studded suede Emily bucket bag by Sam Edelman is slightly removed from the conventional idea of what a bucket bag should look like. It comes with edgy stud detail as well as eye-catching fringe. It has double handles and a convenient magnetic closure. Available for under $200, this is a modern bag with incredible style.
Mini
The popularity of the mini handbag has only come to light within the past year. Its popularity is due to the fact that these mini versions are less expensive than the regular sized handbags, which makes designer brands accessible to more customers than ever before.
The mini version of the Valentino spike suede handbag is available at Luisaviaroma for about $1250. It comes in black as well as a gorgeous deep red shade. The gold stud detailing, functional front lock lift the design, and adjustable shoulder strap are all wonderful details that add to this bag. At just 10 x 14cm, this handbag won't fit much in it, but it's a wonderful and beautiful design statement to wear across your body.
Hobo
The hobo originated in the 1900s when hobos would wrap their belongings in a piece of fabric and tie the bundle to a stick. This bag is characterized by its half moon (crescent) shape. Today, the bag can be found in numerous materials, but always a soft one that doesn't hold its shape. It is widely popular due to its practical nature, and the fact that it can greatly expand, and hold a lot of things at one time.
This suede Courier suede bag by Elizabeth and James is available from Nordstrom for about $700. It has a shoulder strap, sleek silver dome stud details adorning the bag , and an adjustable snap-tab closure. It also has interior zip and wall pockets.
Saddle
The saddle bag is type of cross body bag, but it is defined by its rounded shape around the bottom edge. As outlined in this article at Sheer Luxe, this particular handbag style grew in popularity near the end of 2015, initially inspired by the cult classic Chloe Drew bag.
This Michael Kors Brooklyn suede saddle bag can be purchased online at Macy's for around $200. The front flap has a snap closure, is outlined in gold decorative grommets, and comes with an adjustable shoulder strap, and a gorgeous boho swishy tassel detail. Inside the bag, there is one zip pocket, and one open pocket.
Choosing Your Suede Handbag
Like any fashion choice, choosing your suede bag ultimately comes down to your personal requirements and your personal taste. Pick a handbag that you like, because this will shine through when you wear it. Don't forget to make sure it is also practical and suits your needs. If you are a lady who has to carry around certain large or bulky items like a laptop or a personal planner, then opt for a suede bag choice that will provide you with more room.
