https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/suede-vs-leather-boots-style-perceptions Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Tue, 21 Apr 2026 17:10:46 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/suede-vs-leather-boots-style-perceptions/page/2#post-1549964 Wed, 02 Sep 2015 02:02:49 +0000 mikky 1549964@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think suede reads dressier to me -- black suede, anyway. And there is that element of luxury. I'm sure it's historical, or class-related, or something like that, but, the idea that one can go about in these soft-surfaced shoes with the delicate nap connotes some type of indulgence or luxury, in comparison with people who required more rugged, waterproof footwear.<br />Of course, modern technology evens things out a little. And on the matter of the La Canadiennes, I recently ended up with a pair of the black suede, waterproof 'Calebs' which I intend to test drive in a Canadian Maritime winter...will keep you posted.<br />(long-time lurker; infrequent poster!) </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/suede-vs-leather-boots-style-perceptions/page/2#post-1549958 Wed, 02 Sep 2015 01:50:48 +0000 Echo 1549958@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>While brown suede can lean boho, I find a black suede to be much more elegant than leather, especially in an OTK boot. Something about leather always leans edgy, urban and slightly sexy, again, especially in an OTK boot. I think suede is easier to dress up or down, is normally softer and will almost always fit more closely than leather will.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/suede-vs-leather-boots-style-perceptions/page/2#post-1549864 Tue, 01 Sep 2015 22:45:41 +0000 UmmLila (Lisa) 1549864@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I really like the SW in that photo you linked, Una. But the thin sole and the suede are a recipe for salt damage </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/suede-vs-leather-boots-style-perceptions#post-1549668 Tue, 01 Sep 2015 16:43:47 +0000 Thistle 1549668@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think suede are dressier, depending on the color, compared to leather. I think they are also more feminine and have less risk looking like a pirate or Pretty Woman. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/suede-vs-leather-boots-style-perceptions#post-1549666 Tue, 01 Sep 2015 16:40:43 +0000 catgirl 1549666@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Double post - sorry!</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/suede-vs-leather-boots-style-perceptions#post-1549662 Tue, 01 Sep 2015 16:37:53 +0000 catgirl 1549662@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Ummlila, those boots are surprisingly similar to the Ugg Cortonas!&nbsp; Those fulfill the military/riding boot need for me.&nbsp; I'm hoping for something more like this:</p> <p><a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/55/70/17/557017d9e4373850411bb15b84943231.jpg" rel="nofollow">https://s-media-cache-ak0.pini.....943231.jpg</a></p> <p>There's actually a way to build your own custom SW boots but they are non-returnable and I have no idea of the fit.&nbsp; And not sure I should spend that kind of money on a gamble.</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/suede-vs-leather-boots-style-perceptions#post-1549624 Tue, 01 Sep 2015 16:06:07 +0000 UmmLila (Lisa) 1549624@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I usually like suede best for thr OTK look. However these black leather OTK from Emerson Fry are gorgeous. <a href="http://emersonfry.com/trooper-boot-black" rel="nofollow">http://emersonfry.com/trooper-boot-black</a> I think the trooper name conveys something about the military/ disciplined look the leather might convey.</p> <p>Out of curiosity for those who wear OTK -- how do you drive in them? I would think sitting into a low car seat would be tough.</p> <p>I actually ordered the Emerson Cross booties for this season, different vibe entirely. <a href="http://emersonfry.com/unisex-cross-boot-white-stripe" rel="nofollow">http://emersonfry.com/unisex-c.....ite-stripe</a> I am puzzled as to why they are "unisex" and hope it does not mean they are too wide. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/suede-vs-leather-boots-style-perceptions#post-1549546 Tue, 01 Sep 2015 14:39:41 +0000 gryffin 1549546@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Viva - I tried on the Blondos.&nbsp; They were too big in the ankle and not as fitted as i like.&nbsp; Also I am used the the fabric SW or aquatalia uses in their boots&nbsp;and this had a more synthetic less substantial feel.&nbsp; Also the back fabric comes up very high on the fiex zone.&nbsp; I think you need to try them on and see how they fit and what you think of the materials.&nbsp; They have incredible reviews and omg are waterproof.&nbsp; I was sorry that they did not work for me.&nbsp; I hope they work out for you.&nbsp; They are an amazing buy. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/suede-vs-leather-boots-style-perceptions#post-1549529 Tue, 01 Sep 2015 14:18:54 +0000 viva 1549529@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Una, I think if I went for a heel at all, that is exactly the heel I would want. And that suede looks sumptuous. There's another adjective for you. Those are GORGEOUS. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/suede-vs-leather-boots-style-perceptions#post-1549522 Tue, 01 Sep 2015 14:06:06 +0000 catgirl 1549522@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Viva, these below are the ones that got me started on the "grey" and "suede" themes. They supposedly fit 12" calves! I too am drawn to the richness and texture of suede, but I can also see how they might read wrong with just the slightest misstep. Anything too pointy would not work for me. All of your descriptors and adjectives are so helpful! The Blondos look good too.</p> <p>I also have a weird issue with the whole stretch fabric on the back of the leg, even though I understand that is what gives the sleek fitted look for skinny legs like mine. </p> <p>I may need to try some just to get it out of my system! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/suede-vs-leather-boots-style-perceptions#post-1549508 Tue, 01 Sep 2015 13:41:01 +0000 Minnie 1549508@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think leather OTK boots, especially with heels, can easily look too "Pretty Woman"-esque.<br />Suede tones down the sexiness.<br />I own the SW "Lowland" in black suede and love them.</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/suede-vs-leather-boots-style-perceptions#post-1549506 Tue, 01 Sep 2015 13:35:46 +0000 Suz 1549506@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Lisa, supposedly the waterproof Aquatalia and La Canadiennes can cope with it all. I honestly don't know. I think the salt would do them in...</p> <p>Yet I have seen women in Montreal sport them in the worst possible conditions, looking pristine.&nbsp;</p> <p>What magic do they have?&nbsp;</p> <p> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/suede-vs-leather-boots-style-perceptions#post-1549505 Tue, 01 Sep 2015 13:34:42 +0000 Suz 1549505@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>OMG, <b>Viva</b>. Total love.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/suede-vs-leather-boots-style-perceptions#post-1549504 Tue, 01 Sep 2015 13:31:53 +0000 viva 1549504@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Could these possibly be as sleek as the 5050s? One reviewer says yes. (Very highly rated, by Blondo, suede, and WATERPROOF.) </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/suede-vs-leather-boots-style-perceptions#post-1549498 Tue, 01 Sep 2015 13:17:54 +0000 Anonymous 1549498@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I agree with Gryffin (I usually do - lol). &nbsp;There is nothing more luxurious and rich looking that <b>top quality</b> black suede. The quality makes a big difference though, as the less expensive stuff can look too rough and fluffy. &nbsp;And so, the more suede there is - i.e. otk vs knee high - the more luxurious the boot looks.</p> <p>The only issue with suede though, which is a HUGE one, is that &nbsp;you can't be wearing them out and about in snow too often . &nbsp;Right? &nbsp;I don't care how much spray , wipe, buff etc you do, they are too delicate for outdoors once the snow hits. That's my big worry. &nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/suede-vs-leather-boots-style-perceptions#post-1549476 Tue, 01 Sep 2015 12:39:32 +0000 Suz 1549476@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Back. I agree with <b>Gryffin</b> -- this is what I was trying to say about suede.&nbsp;</p> <p>In brown or rust -- and in some rugged knee high boots -- I do agree it can feel more rustic, boho, pirate, or whatever. Ditto in taupe in a rugged style.&nbsp;</p> <p>But to me, in black (or often grey or taupe) and in a more refined boot, it seems more dressy and luxe, like velvet.&nbsp;</p> <p>It might also seem a bit romantic in those colours (or might not).&nbsp;</p> <p>But again, HEELED, fitted OTK boots scare me a bit anyway. I think a heeled, fitted OTK boot in leather would feel too, um, "lady of the night" to <b>me.</b>&nbsp;Recall, thought -- I am the person who would feel "lady of the night" if she wore shorts with heels.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/suede-vs-leather-boots-style-perceptions#post-1549460 Tue, 01 Sep 2015 11:11:47 +0000 viva 1549460@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>As you know I have been toying with the OTK boot idea for the last few months. And what always pulls me back to them is a picture of suede OTK boots. I'm only going to echo what others have said here, but to me, suede OTK boots are luxurious, special, romantic, exotic, upscale bohemian, soft, sophisticated, and glamorous. I think they have soft edge. And now that I think more about it, I understand why I am more drawn to the suede than the leather -- I'm moving in a more feminine direction now, and I think the suede is more feminine. Don't get me wrong, I love leather -- but in an OTK boot, it's a harder, more masculine, more urban kind of look. I do feel suede is sophisticated, but in a luxurious feminine sort of way.</p> <p>Okay, I have convinced myself. I am trying on OTK boots when I head to Nordstrom this week. That's it. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/suede-vs-leather-boots-style-perceptions#post-1549457 Tue, 01 Sep 2015 10:53:27 +0000 gryffin 1549457@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Wow, I have the total opposite feeling about suede. &nbsp;Black suede, in a refined boot - to me it's so much dressier than leather in the same style. &nbsp;Suede has a velvet look. &nbsp;So compare high heeled, fitted black suede boots to the same in leather and suede is much more refined and dressier. &nbsp;I do think style counts. &nbsp;If you are picturing a flat suede in an earth tone not fitted, that would give a boho earth vibe. &nbsp;In my head I'm picturing black, fitted suede boots. &nbsp;To me the same in leather is more practical and utilitarian - elegant but a day boots. &nbsp;Suede to my eye in this style is dressier. &nbsp;Put a heel on it and it becomes very dressy. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/suede-vs-leather-boots-style-perceptions#post-1549451 Tue, 01 Sep 2015 10:39:36 +0000 Style Fan 1549451@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I love suede.&nbsp; Love.&nbsp; I do think it has a more natural, earthy, rustic, boho vibe to it.&nbsp; But black suede could look dressy.&nbsp; Not as dressy and urban as black leather.<br />I live in a very wintery climate.&nbsp; I don't wear my suede boots in the winter except for a pair of Timberland oiled suede ones.&nbsp; They have lasted for 10 years and are still going strong.</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/suede-vs-leather-boots-style-perceptions#post-1549446 Tue, 01 Sep 2015 09:43:34 +0000 cheryle (Dianthus) 1549446@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think it has a lot to do with the level of sheen. &nbsp;The slight sheen on leather gives them a more finished or dressy look. &nbsp;Suede boots aren't as bright due to the lack of reflection. &nbsp;I would put the different finishes on a continuum that goes from suede to leather to patent leather. &nbsp;Doesn't patent look dressier than regular leather?</p> <p>The material is only one factor though. &nbsp;The heel, shape, fit and height all have equal less in the degree of dressiness of a boot. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/suede-vs-leather-boots-style-perceptions#post-1549419 Tue, 01 Sep 2015 06:54:29 +0000 Maneera 1549419@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Like Suz, I think that the vibe of OTK and Knee-high boots is very different. </p> <p>Knee length boots are safe, predictable, classic, and stylish. Leather knee length boots almost always have an equestrian vibe. Suede ones look more luxe, dressy and elegant. However, the shape, heel and design matters. Some leather boots look sleeker, especially if they don't have rounded toes and lug soles. Heels with a pointed/almond shape toe looks very different from round toed flat boots with harness buckles. I hope you get what I mean?! </p> <p>Onto OTK - now these always look sexy, urban, sultry, playful and extremely feminine. Leather looks more hard edge rockstar, but a little slouchy design can look elegant in a very mod way. Suede just looks more elegant, in my opinion. But suede will also be less dramatic for just that reason. </p> <p>What do you want your boots to say about you, Una? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/suede-vs-leather-boots-style-perceptions#post-1549412 Tue, 01 Sep 2015 05:57:29 +0000 Brooklyn 1549412@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think suede is more luxe looking in OTKs personally. I have seen some grey and taupe OTK boots here in suede (and some in microfibre) and they just look rich and lush compared to their smooth leather counterparts. I think smooth leather has a harder, more urban, more military feel (suede is more soft and feminine). I would be concerned about durability though - suede does mark easily. Are you hard on your shoes? But then again OTKs could be out in a couple of years so you don't need them to last forever! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/suede-vs-leather-boots-style-perceptions#post-1549407 Tue, 01 Sep 2015 05:47:57 +0000 Gaylene 1549407@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think thickness, quality, design and color are the key elements here. i've seen delicate, velvety suede boots that were elegant enough for the opening night at the opera and leather boots that were perfect to wear to a branding party. </p> <p>What look are you going for with your OTK boots? Hard-edged Rocker? Romantic Pirate? Sleek Mod? SexyPretty Lady? OTK boots have lots of stories to tell. </p> <p>My OTK boots were white leather ones that I wore with my Mary Quant-style dresses back in my undergrad years. I ROCKED those boots, especially when Jim Morrison crooned from the turntable. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/suede-vs-leather-boots-style-perceptions#post-1549404 Tue, 01 Sep 2015 05:34:56 +0000 tulle 1549404@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm in love with black suede right now, so I may not be the best judge (just bought a vintage black suede jacket &amp; a pair of black suede lace-up ankle boots) but to me polished black leather, though elegant and practical, can be somewhat hard-edged.&nbsp; Matte black suede, like black velvet, has depth and mystery, it is at once quieter and more dramatic.&nbsp; Over-the-knee boots seem inherently theatrical to me, so suede, with its costume/historical flavor, feels like a logical choice.&nbsp; But it all comes down to what YOU love.&nbsp; You wear slick black leather (I seem to recall some amazing skinny jeans) much better than I.&nbsp; I think you'll be safe following your instincts. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/suede-vs-leather-boots-style-perceptions#post-1549389 Tue, 01 Sep 2015 04:49:50 +0000 catgirl 1549389@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Amy, that's an issue so waterproofing would be key! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/suede-vs-leather-boots-style-perceptions#post-1549380 Tue, 01 Sep 2015 04:27:59 +0000 Amy 1549380@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I like suede...it's more on the casual side of things...</p> <p>Would suede work in your climate? I'd be scared to ruin the boots in all that snow you get up there. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/suede-vs-leather-boots-style-perceptions#post-1549374 Tue, 01 Sep 2015 04:12:28 +0000 Diana 1549374@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think of suede as soft and leather as hard. With an otk boot, suede seems more pirate or boho and leather more urban. Generalizations, of course, as it depends on the specific style.</p> <p>But then again I have some slouchy, distressed black suede cowboy boots, which are somehow much more urban than normal cowboy boots. So I wouldn't say it's necessarily more rustic. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/suede-vs-leather-boots-style-perceptions#post-1549365 Tue, 01 Sep 2015 03:46:25 +0000 catgirl 1549365@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Suz, keep going... Like you I'm a word person. Let's start with suede. Rustic romantic? Ren fair medieval? Feminine? Soft edge? Why does OTK have a different vibe? An elusive concept that I'm enjoying trying to pin down! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/suede-vs-leather-boots-style-perceptions#post-1549361 Tue, 01 Sep 2015 03:41:16 +0000 Suz 1549361@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I don't know why, but OTK seem different than knee high to me. For some reason suede seems more luxe, romantic (maybe?) or ... something... in suede OTK, at least if it is black. Or maybe less OTT. I am not sure. Then again, OTK boots scare me a little. But less so if they are flat.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/suede-vs-leather-boots-style-perceptions#post-1549358 Tue, 01 Sep 2015 03:26:55 +0000 kellygirl 1549358@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Agreeing with Joy. Suede seems more casual than leather to me. FWIW, I just happen to have returned a pair of OTK boots for skinny legs--check out the Luichiny Trend Lee (Amazon or 6pm.) I decided they were just too much boot for me but they fit in the calves and the height was darn near perfect. </p>