“Warm it up Kris…” “I’m about to.”
– Chris “Mac Daddy” Kelly & Chris “Daddy Mac” Smith
A lot of guys think of white bucks, seersucker, and summer when they picture suede shoes. That doesn’t have to be the case. Getting dressed for fall and winter is just as much about changing the the texture of your clothes to match the season as it is about changing the colors to darker more subtle tones.
Smooth and light things usually work best in spring & summer. Fall and winter = rougher and heavy. And that applies to sweaters, sportcoats, even beer and facial hair. More texture makes something look warmer. Moving that theory to your shoes means suede can work in fall, but just keep it to rich browns and other dark colors. Like any of these:
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The Cheap Chukka: Bass Suede Chukka – $69.95 ($80.00)
Real cheap. Could get cheaper if you hold out for one of the many DSW codes that float around. The Code SHIPR will get you free shipping as long as you sign up for their email list.
The Summer Buck’s Evil Twin: J&M Brennan – $108 w/ SECRET20 ($135
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Plain for sure, but the contrast laces are a bonus. Plus unless they’ve changed something recently, they’re awfully comfortable. Available in the deep charcoal pictured, a dark brown, and a lighter taupe. If you’re looking for something between taupe and brown, they have some limited sizes at Sierra Trading Post for $67.16 with the code ALPUMPKIN1. That code is also good for 20% off most stuff at STP through 11/2. ALOCTOBER1 gets you 25% off orders of $125 and up, and 30% off orders of $150 and up.
The Safe & Sleek Steal: J. D. Fisk “Bryant” Cap Toe – $99.90
($169)
Rich brown suede, a barely there cap toe, and a shape that’s in that great mid point between “brick” and “spear.” Made in Mexico and comes equipped with Goodyear Welt construction. Leather sole. Ships and returns free thanks to the new Nordstrom shipping policy. Does look to have some (hopefully minor) burnishing at the toe.
The Cheaper than the Cheap Chukka Wingtip – Hawkins McGill Suede – $49.99 ($78)
Full marks to reader Zach for sending in the style tip on these. They’re the sued version of a very, very well liked and inexpensive wingtip boot via Urban Outfitters. Personal experience with the tan version has been excellent so far. Suede on the way for an in-person. Shipping is free at $50 and above, so, you should strongly consider picking up some $2.00 made in the USA boot laces. Maybe for these, maybe not.
The Longwing: Florsheim Haviland – $111.99 w/ FFWF30 ($170)
Suede colors are brown, grey, and even blue. The rubber bottom is more appropriate for the weather we all get pelted with this time of year. These are the drop-top longwing version of the Hawley. Usually LINK20 will net you 20% off direct through Florsheim, but the FFWF30 code gets 30% off through famous footwear. Shipping unfortunately, not free on these. Thanks to BB for the style tip.
The Risk: Topman “Milan” Suede Saddle Shoes – $100.00
Not for everyone. Not everyone can pull these off. And Topman shoes, as good as they look, might not last the longest. But chances are you wouldn’t be wearing these every day either.
For some non-suede rugged fall laceup options, try this list over here. Your pick for a favorite from these, or, any other options you’ve seen are more than welcome in the comments.