The Footwear Taking the Place of Our Black Leather Booties This Fall
September 8, 2025
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Every autumn, as regularly as the seasons change, black leather booties are pulled from the back of our closets. It's as if we've been enchanted by the Sanderson Sisters: “On the first day of fall, when the weather is juuuuuust right, a black boot will call to us by night.” While I appreciate the comfort of tradition, I believe it's time we break the spell. This season, fall is beckoning for something softer, richer, and distinctly more 2025: suede.
Don't misunderstand me—no fall wardrobe is truly complete without black boots. They are classic, reliable, and many of us have had a long-standing relationship with ours for nearly a decade (or more). However, like all meaningful relationships, sometimes an upgrade is necessary. Enter: suede boots. Luxurious yet accessible, they provide a fresh take on your fall outfits without straying too far from the traditional styles.
Are you prepared to make the change? From sleek knee-highs to Western-inspired designs that fit seamlessly where your black booties once were, these suede boots are the ones to consider this fall.
Suede knee-high boots
I believe everyone—truly everyone—would benefit from owning a pair of knee-high boots. A good pair can extend the life of your beloved summer pieces: bermuda shorts, mini skirts, and everything in between. They have been my fall staple for years, responsible for some of the most admired outfits I've worn. At the moment, I’m particularly fond of pairing them with a silky mini skirt, a textured crewneck sweater, and a soft suede coat. This combination feels equally chic and effortless, and is one you'll find yourself repeating throughout the season.
Sam Edelman
10+ colors available
Dolce Vita
3 colors available
Old Navy
2 colors available
Circus NY
5 colors available
Suede ankle boots
Please proceed with caution here. Not all ankle boots are made the same, and one misstep (literally) can take you back to 2012. The clear giveaway? Apologies in advance: those conspicuous side elastics. (I warned you.) Instead, seek out a pair with a zipper closure and, if possible, opt for a kitten heel instead of a chunky block heel. The slimmer profile appears infinitely more polished and, when paired with denim or trousers, creates that effortlessly elongated silhouette we all aspire to achieve this time of year.
Steve Madden
4 colors available
Dolce Vita
5 colors available
Steve Madden
3 colors available
Slouchy suede boots
This month, as the fashion elite gathered at Paris Fashion Week (sadly, no Belly sightings—IYKYK), one thing became evident: Slouchy boots are officially making a comeback after a long absence. The standout style? Deep shades of brown suede, seen on industry insiders and perfectly styled with tailored midi skirts and oversized blazers. These boots are both relaxed and refined, proving that sometimes the simplest trends make the biggest statement.
Steve Madden
2 colors available
Revolve
2 colors available
Anthropologie
7 colors available
Suede moto boots
Every style of pull-on boot is trending this fall, and suede is the chic upgrade of the season. A moto design pairs effortlessly with dresses and skirts while the hardware adds just the right edge to soft silhouettes like silky minis and relaxed knits. This season, I’m pairing them with a flowy mini dress and a chunky oversized sweater—effortlessly polished and perfectly balanced.
Nordstrom
2 colors available
Suede cowboy boots
Nowadays, everything seems to be embracing Western vibes—or at least Western-inspired. From flared jeans to fringe jackets, the Western trend is strong for fall 2025. While you might opt for a classic cowboy boot, there are also subtler variations—like a scalloped suede pair—that nod to this trend without being too overt. My favorite way to style them this season is with a simple mini dress and an oversized blazer.
Dolce Vita
2 colors available
Sam Edelman
4 colors available
How to care for suede
In the past, suede's reputation for being high-maintenance might have been a deterrent, but now a variety of suede protectors make maintaining this material easier than ever. To keep your boots looking fresh, treat them with a suede protectant spray before the first wear. For inevitable signs of wear, gently rub them with a suede brush to help sustain their texture and longevity.
Shop more of the best suede boots this season
Amazon
4 colors available
Amazon
10 colors available
Amazon
10+ colors available
Dolce Vita
2 colors available
Steve Madden
4 colors available
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The Footwear Taking the Place of Our Black Leather Booties This Fall
Hello, my dear!