The allure of suede is timeless, but this season has embraced the material like no other. There's a textural richness to suede that elevates any outfit, offering a depth that even a staple leather jacket can't quite match. Suede has certainly imprinted its sartorial dominance into the runways, inevitably trickling down into the high street - and into my wardrobe.
A great high street suede jacket is hard to come by this autumn/winter, with most affordable suede selling out almost immediately. So when I came across Free People's Blair Vegan Suede Jacket, I knew I had to act fast.
Free People's version of the trending jacket combines all the best elements of the suede revival. The vegan suede is soft, and the fit is slightly oversized but still flattering - perfect for layering over anything from a chunky knit to a simple t-shirt. The vintage-inspired detailing is so cool and makes you feel instantly put together, no matter how cold it gets outside.
While my main aim was finding the perfect suede jacket I could basically hide in all winter long, Free People also had some great layering pieces I could wear underneath said jacket. A particular standout was the Classic Striped Oversized Crewneck, as I'm a big believer the perfect winter outfit centres around a good jumper. Wear the crewneck over the top of a boxy tee, and style it with jeans for that I’ve-just-thrown-this-on outfit. Plus, stripes - much like leopard - never age, but always infuses a touch of Parisian chic into any look. A word of warning however, I got this in a size small and it comes up very oversized so my advice would be to size down.
Another piece I already know will be extremely hard working is the Camden Sweatshirt. The slouchy fit is perfect for that cosy-yet-effortless look I always go for in winter, and the fabric is super thick - again, ideal for layering up on those extra cold days. To style the jumper, I'd go full autumnal and pair it with brown corduroy trousers, the outcome being a dreamy combination of texture and earthy tone.
Shop my favourite Free People winter pieces below (including that suede jacket) and give your wardrobe a stylish and seasonal update.
Shop: The Best Free People pieces to add to your AW wardrobe
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Red dominated the runways (and most likely your Instagram feed, too) in AW23, and it's showing no signs of slowing in AW24. The bold, fiery hue is fighting for its place as the colour of the season, but this jacket might've just won it. This Free People jacket is made out of vegan suede and has a boxy silhouette that's perfect for layering jumpers underneath. Plus, it's available in three other shades; tan, white and khaki.
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Free People has taken the classic striped tee and elevated it with details like contrasting hems to add dimension, and a super slouchy silhouette. A tried-and-true piece to add to your winter wardrobe, the crewneck comes in over ten different colour combinations too.
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Another wardrobe staple, the Camden sweatshirt has an oversized fit that gives it a cool, lived-in look that works for most occasions. Whether you're wearing it to WFH or running errands, save this one for casual days when you want to look put-together without even trying. It's also not just available in this gorgeous khaki shade, the sweatshirt comes in over 20 shades; including baby pink and navy.
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Horseshoe or barrel jeans, are having a serious moment right now. With its exaggerated, curved silhouette and cinched waist, this style of jean brings a modern twist to classic denim. The Free People Barrel Jeans (which our shopping editor also loves) come in three different lengths (short, regular and long) and a wide selection of denim shades.
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Boho is most definitely back, and we're talking all the free-spirited dresses, knee-high boots and fringed jackets. Made from vegan suede, this jacket that's a hybrid between a winter jacket and shirt, features fringe details along the chest, back and sleeves, a button-front closure and relaxed collar.
What we love about Free People
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The brand has mastered the art of blending bohemian flair with everyday wearability.
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Uses a growing range of eco-friendly materials and vegan alternatives.
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Intricate detailing and thoughtful fabrics give its pieces a distinct and high-quality feel.
Main image credits: Grazia/Gemma Lavers, Instagram/@aimeejohnson, @hopeannwilliams
Gemma Lavers is a fashion commerce writer at Grazia. Gemma specialises in all things clothing and enjoys outfit planning (especially for holidays), scrolling social media for the next trend and shopping (probably for a new coat).