SUEDE

Suede is a soft leather with a velvety, napped surface, produced by buffing the inner (flesh) side of a hide, most often calf, goat or sheep. Unlike smooth leather, suede is matte, tender to the touch and visually warmer, but also more vulnerable: it fears water, readily absorbs dirt and shows dark marks from handling. It is made into footwear, jackets, skirts, gloves and accessories when a look calls for soft, muted luxury. Suede needs special care — brushes, water-repellent treatments and protection from moisture. Suede is the napped underside of leather (usually lamb or goat); the name comes from the French “gants de Suède” — “Swedish gloves”.