Suede Care 101: A Guide for High-Net-Worth Individuals

When it comes to understated luxury, suede reigns supreme. Its velvety texture, refined appeal, and tactile richness make it a favored choice for fashion connoisseurs and high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) who appreciate quiet elegance. Whether it's a bespoke pair of Loro Piana boots, a Hermès suede handbag, or custom suede interiors in your Rolls-Royce, maintaining suede is a lifestyle discipline of its own.

Here’s how to take care of suede and preserve its pristine condition — because true luxury is in the detail.

1. Invest in Professional-Grade Suede Brushes & Cleaning Kits

Don’t compromise on quality when it comes to suede care. A premium suede brush made with brass or crepe is essential to lift dirt and revive the nap. Pair it with a luxury suede cleaning kit that includes a special eraser and suede shampoo for deeper cleans.

Luxury tip: Keep a Saphir Médaille d’Or suede care kit in your dressing room or walk-in wardrobe — it’s the gold standard among stylists and luxury shoe artisans.

2. Waterproof Before First Use

Suede is naturally delicate and porous. A single drop of water can leave a mark. Protect your items with a high-quality suede protector spray from brands like Collonil or Jason Markk.

Best practice: Spray in a well-ventilated space, allow 24 hours to dry, and reapply every few months — especially before traveling to humid destinations like the Amalfi Coast or Singapore.

3. Store with Intention

Suede must breathe. Avoid plastic coverings which trap moisture. Instead, use breathable cotton dust bags and cedar-filled shoe trees to maintain shape and absorb humidity.

HNWI hack: For heirloom pieces or seasonal garments, store in climate-controlled wardrobes or luxury storage facilities like those offered by The Restory or Vault Couture.

4. Handle with Clean, Dry Hands

Oils from your skin can stain suede. Always handle suede garments and accessories with clean hands or soft cotton gloves.

Private client insight: Top stylists for celebrities and royals often handle couture suede pieces using gloves, especially during fittings or red-carpet prep.

5. Spot-Clean with Precision

If you notice a stain, act swiftly. Use a white cloth to blot (never rub), and follow up with a suede eraser and a dry brush. For oil stains, try cornstarch to absorb the excess before brushing it out.

Important: Never use water directly — it can set the stain.

6. Call in the Experts

For major stains or deep cleaning, rely on luxury garment care specialists. Firms like Jeeves of Belgravia or Blanc Living in London offer haute couture garment services, including suede cleaning, color restoration, and preservation.

For jet-setters: Many premium concierge services can collect and return your items globally within 48–72 hours.

7. Avoid Heat and Direct Sunlight

Exposure to direct sunlight can cause fading, while heat can stiffen the delicate nap. Store suede items away from radiators and windows. For drying, use ambient air and never a hairdryer or heater.

8. Rotate and Rest

Just like fine leather, suede benefits from rest. Avoid wearing the same pair of suede loafers or carrying the same suede clutch daily. Let items rest to prevent wear and moisture buildup.

Style secret: Fashion stylists for ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs) recommend building a seasonal suede wardrobe, so your staples rotate without overuse.

Final Thought: Suede Is a Statement of Quiet Luxury

Suede is for the discreetly powerful — a material that whispers wealth and confidence. Like a Patek Philippe or a vintage Aston Martin, it must be treated with respect and attention. By following these care practices, HNWIs can ensure their suede items age gracefully, telling a story of timeless elegance and curated luxury.