Do you own a suede jacket or pair of shoes and aren’t quite sure if it’s real or fake? Or maybe you’re looking for a new suede item and want to make sure you’re buying the real thing. In any case, it is important to be able to correctly identify suede.
Suede is a popular material for clothing, shoes and accessories due to its softness and unique texture. However, it can also be easily damaged if not cared for properly. By learning to recognize suede by its feel and appearance, you can ensure you are taking the necessary steps to care for your suede items and keep them looking their best.
What is suede?
If you’ve ever wondered how to tell if a material is truly high quality, understanding suede’s unique texture and appearance is a good place to start. Suede is a type of leather made from the underside of an animal’s skin, typically cow, goat, or sheep. The manufacturing process involves grinding or buffing the leather to create a soft, plush texture that is often described as velvet-like.
Suede has a long history in the fashion industry, dating back to the 19th century when it was primarily used for gloves and shoes. Today, suede is used in a variety of clothing and accessories, including jackets, skirts, and handbags. Its popularity is partly due to its luxurious texture and matte finish, which give it a more casual and relaxed feel compared to traditional patent leather. In order to tell the difference between real suede and man-made suede, it is important to understand the unique characteristics of suede.
Real suede vs. imitation suede
With these real suede vs faux suede tips, you can easily tell if you’re getting the real deal or a cheap imitation. First, let’s talk about the durability of suede. Genuine suede is made from animal skins and is known for its durability and longevity. It’s also breathable, making it perfect for shoes and clothing that need to be comfortable and flexible. Faux suede, on the other hand, is made from synthetic materials like polyester or nylon. Although it looks like the real thing, it’s not as durable and won’t last as long as real suede.
Another factor to consider when choosing between real and faux suede is environmental impact. Imitation suede is made from synthetic materials that are non-biodegradable and non-harmful to the environment. The production of faux suede also uses chemicals that can be hazardous to workers and the environment. While not entirely eco-friendly, real suede is a by-product of the meat industry and can be considered a more sustainable option. With these factors in mind, it is important to choose the right type of suede for your needs and values.
Moving on to the next section on detecting suede by touch, you’ll want to learn about the differences in texture between real and artificial suede.
Identify suede by touch
Feeling confident in your fashion choices means you can instantly tell the difference between real and faux suede by just touching them. The textural differences between the two materials are key to correct identification. Real suede has a soft, plush surface, while faux suede has a smooth, almost plastic feel. The soft texture of real suede comes from the natural fibers of the animal skin it’s made of, while man-made suede is typically made from synthetic materials.
Common suede items include jackets, shoes, and bags. If you’re trying to find out whether an item is made of real suede or not, pay attention to how it feels when you touch it. Run your hand over the surface and feel if a soft, plush surface emerges. If the surface is too smooth or plastic-like, it’s probably faux suede. While identifying suede by feel is a good place to start, it’s important to know how to identify suede by appearance, which we’ll cover in the next section.
Identify suede by its appearance
For fashion enthusiasts looking to elevate their style, being able to distinguish between real and faux suede based on appearance is crucial. One way to identify suede by its appearance is to look for color variations and differences in texture. Genuine suede has a soft and matte finish that gives it a slightly bumpy appearance. The texture of suede is soft and velvety to the touch and has a natural grain that looks like small, raised dots. Suede can range in color from light to dark and often has a subtle sheen that adds to its luxurious appearance.
Another way to recognize suede is by its ability to absorb water. If you drop a small amount of water on a piece of suede, it should absorb quickly and leave no mark. If the water sits on the fabric or forms droplets, it’s probably not real suede. Knowing how to recognize real suede by its appearance can help you make an informed purchase and avoid being scammed by counterfeit suede products.
Now that you know how to identify suede by appearance, it’s important to understand how to properly care for your suede items.
Caring for your suede items
If you’ve invested in a pair of suede shoes or a suede jacket, knowing how to properly care for them is important to ensure they last for years. Suede is a delicate material that requires special attention when cleaning and caring for it. To remove stains from your suede items, first gently brush the stain away with a suede brush. If the stain is still visible, gently rub the stain away with a suede eraser. You can also try removing more stubborn stains with a solution of white vinegar and water. Be sure to test the cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous spot on the item before applying it to the entire surface.
In addition to stain removal, it is important to have your suede items waterproofed to protect them from moisture and stains. You can purchase a suede protectant spray at most shoe stores or online retailers. Before applying the spray, clean the item thoroughly and allow it to dry completely. Then spray a thin layer of the protectant over the entire surface of the item, holding the can about 6 inches away. Allow the item to dry completely before wearing or using it. With proper care and maintenance, your suede items can last for years and continue to look stylish and luxurious.
frequently asked Questions
Can suede be impregnated?
There are various methods available for impregnating suede. One option is to use a waterproofing spray made specifically for suede. Another option is to use a wax-based waterproofing agent. However, keep in mind that waterproofing methods are not a guarantee of waterproofing longevity. The effectiveness of the waterproofing depends on the quality of the product used, how often the object is exposed to water and how well it is cared for. It is important to reapply the waterproofing regularly to maintain the effectiveness of the product.
Is suede suitable for outdoor use?
Suede is a great option for outdoor clothing due to its durability and versatility. While it may not be fully waterproof, it can handle some moisture and still retain its shape and texture. Additionally, suede offers a range of styling options, from casual to dressy, making it a great choice for any occasion. Consider pairing suede boots with jeans and a sweater for a casual fall look, or pair a suede jacket with a dress or skirt for a chic, sophisticated outfit. With proper care and maintenance, suede can be a reliable and fashionable choice for your outdoor wardrobe.
How to remove stains from suede?
To remove suede stains, first gently rub the affected area with a suede brush or eraser. Then wipe up excess moisture with a dry cloth. For more stubborn stains, mix equal parts white vinegar and water, then rub the solution lightly onto the stain with a cloth. Let it dry and then brush the suede to restore its texture. If the stain still persists, try a special suede cleaner, following the directions carefully. Remember not to use water on suede as it can cause damage. Keep your suede looking fresh and stain-free with these cleaning tips.
Can suede be ironed?
Ironing suede is not recommended as it can damage the delicate material. Instead, use a suede brush to gently remove wrinkles and creases. When caring for suede, it is important not to expose it to water or heat and to protect it from stains with a suede protection spray. If your suede has stains, remove them with a suede eraser or a mixture of white vinegar and water. With proper care, your suede items can last for many years. Remember to always read the care instructions on your suede products before attempting any cleaning or maintenance.
Does suede shrink when washed?
When washing suede, it is important to follow the correct instructions to avoid shrinkage of the material. Suede is delicate and easily damaged by water and heat. If your suede item has shrunk in the wash, there are ways to restore it. First try to gently stretch the garment back to its original shape while it is still damp. If that doesn’t work, you can try steaming the suede with a steamer or ironing it on a low heat. Once dry, be sure to use a suede brush to restore the plush finish. Remember to always check the care label before attempting to wash or restore suede.
Diploma
Now that you know how to identify suede, you can confidently distinguish between real and faux suede and ensure you are investing in quality products. Remember to use your sense of touch and sight when examining suede items. Feel the plush and soft texture and pay attention to the matte finish. With proper care, your suede items can last for many years.
To care for your suede items, make sure to keep them away from water and moisture and use a suede brush to keep the pile looking fresh. If you get a stain on your suede, treat it with a suede cleaner as soon as possible. These tips and tricks will keep your suede items looking and feeling good for years to come.
