Suede comes in more shapes than the classic trucker jacket. Veronica Beard's blue Walters jacket, Arma's army green Elysia bomber, Versace's light brown blouson and The Row's beige Alarico coat show the range, from cropped to long.

Tan suede with a bright red knit is a classic fall pairing. Rùadh's tan Barclay jacket over Khaite's red Kelly cashmere sweater works well with Alémais' pink floral Faye trousers. Gianvito Rossi's chocolate stone-embellished loafers keep the look grounded.

Suede takes the sweetness out of a floral skirt. Toteme's brown suede jacket over Leset's white Margo T-shirt and Acne Studios' pleated floral midi skirt feels relaxed and grown-up. Alaïa's burgundy calf-hair Criss Cross flats add a hint of colour.

For something sharper, wear a short suede jacket with a crisp shirt and tailored trousers. Nour Hammour's brown Dalma jacket with Liberowe's white poplin shirt and Nili Lotan's gray pleated Etoile trousers is polished enough for the office. Khaite's black Valerie pumps finish it.

A long suede coat is the dramatic version. Stouls' mustard belted Wyatt coat over Zimmermann's brick ruffled silk Aster maxi skirt is rich and warm. Suzie Kondi's navy terry Tilos sweater and Rick Owens' black leather Bogun boots add contrast.

Suede is softer than leather and pairs with almost everything in a fall wardrobe. If you take one thing away, let it be that suede looks best against a contrast in texture, such as silk, cashmere or crisp cotton. Tan and brown are the easiest to wear, while blue and green feel fresher. A cropped or short style is the most versatile, and a long coat is more of a statement. We would skip wearing suede head to toe, which can look heavy. Treat it with a protective spray before the first rainy day, and it will last for many seasons.