Category: Fashion

Honestly, there is something about leather shirts mens that exudes that coolness in wardrobe staples. It  is either Rihanna wearing one over a crop top or Kendall Jenner in one buttoned up with sleek trousers  and the feel is always the same; cool, sophisticated, and very comfortable. Now, suede  shirts? Yes, they are quite charming; but they are accompanied by so many constraints. Pesticide  leather is quite high maintenance and also poses the risk of the clothes getting dated compared to the usual leather  clothes.

Leather shirts have recently gained a lot of attention and can be seen worn by models on  the runways and by people on the street. It’s an easy choice to explain why this is  the case. They add just the right amount of structure without being stiff, so even a simple outfit  looks purposeful. On the other hand, suede shirts are quite elegant and traditional, but they are  heavier, more difficult to combine, and – let’s face it – a bit too demanding.

If  you are still unsure what to choose, I would advise you to pick leather. It is more  versatile, can be worn at any time of the year and only gets better with time. A black leather  button down with some jeans and boots is instantly sophisticated. The brown leather shirt with wide leg trousers is  luxurious now. You can also pull one off when worn over a tank and shorts to give the  impression of sophistication and not pretense.

Suede shirts have their moment, but if you want something that looks expensive, wears like a dream, and requires little fuss, leather is the way to go. Let’s break it down.

1. Leather Shirts Are Built to Last

A high-quality leather shirt is an investment, but here’s the best part: it actually lasts. We’re talking years—maybe even decades—without losing its appeal. Leather is naturally resilient, so it holds up to wear and tear way better than suede. A few scuffs? They add character. A little rain? No panic required.

Suede, on the other hand, is delicate. One accidental spill, and you’re stuck with a permanent stain. Plus, suede tends to thin out over time, especially in high-contact areas like the elbows and cuffs. If you want your clothes to stay looking sharp, leather is the smarter choice.

2. Leather Is Low-Maintenance (Unlike Suede)

Let’s talk upkeep. Suede demands special brushes, protective sprays, and careful storage. Even a little moisture can ruin the texture, which means you have to baby it. Leather? Not so much.

A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually enough to keep a leather shirt looking fresh. Add a little leather conditioner now and then, and it stays buttery soft for years. Unlike suede, leather isn’t afraid of a little rain or the occasional spill. Less stress, more style.

3. Leather Has That Luxe Factor

There’s just something about leather—it has a presence. A well-fitted leather shirt makes any outfit feel more expensive and put-together, no matter how simple the rest of your look is.

Suede, by comparison, leans more rustic and casual. It’s got that vintage appeal, sure, but it doesn’t have the same refined edge. If you’re aiming for sleek, modern, and effortlessly cool, leather is the way to go.

4. Leather Works Year-Round

One of suede’s biggest downfalls? It’s seasonal. It’s too warm for summer, too delicate for wet fall and winter months—so you’re left with a very small window to actually wear it. Leather, on the other hand, works all year long.

A lightweight leather shirt makes the perfect layering piece in transitional weather. In winter, throw it over a turtleneck or under a structured coat. In summer, wear it open over a bralette or tank top for a look that’s breathable but still pulled together. No matter the season, leather just works.

5. Leather Is Insanely Versatile

If you’re investing in a staple piece, versatility is key—and leather shirts deliver. No matter your style, there’s a way to make a leather shirt work for you:

• Casual Cool: Pair a black leather shirt with high-waisted jeans and sneakers for an easy daytime look.
• Office Chic: Tuck a structured leather button-down into tailored trousers and finish with loafers or ankle boots.
• Night Out: Go full monochrome with a fitted leather shirt and matching leather pants. Add heels and gold jewelry for extra drama.
• Layered Look: Wear an oversized leather shirt open over a knit top or bralette with relaxed trousers for a laid-back yet polished feel.

Suede, on the other hand, leans more boho and western-inspired. If that’s your vibe, great—but it definitely limits your styling options compared to leather.

6. Leather Holds Its Shape

Another overlooked reason why leather wins? Structure. Leather naturally holds its shape, giving you that polished, tailored effect. Suede, meanwhile, tends to wrinkle, sag, and lose its crispness over time. That means a leather shirt will always look fresh and put-together, while a suede one requires extra effort just to keep it looking decent.

7. Leather Just Feels Cooler

At the end of the day, the biggest reason to choose leather over suede is simple: it’s just cooler. There’s a reason fashion insiders, rockstars, and style icons gravitate toward leather—it has that inherent edge that makes any outfit feel effortlessly stylish.

Suede has its moments, but it doesn’t carry the same level of impact. A suede shirt might make you look polished, but a leather shirt makes you look like you own the room.

Final Thoughts

Suede shirts are fine if you don’t mind the extra maintenance and seasonal limitations. But if you want something that’s chic, practical, and versatile, leather is the clear winner. It lasts longer, works in every season, and gives any outfit that elevated, fashion-forward feel.

If you’re ready to level up your wardrobe, I’ve rounded up a few of the best leather shirts to shop now—because trust me, once you have one, you’ll wonder why you ever considered suede.