Are Suede Jackets Worth the Investment? Here's My Honest Review of Two Suede Coats That People Constantly Ask, “Where Did You Get That?”

• Style: 20/20
• Fit: 19/20
• Quality: 20/20
• Longevity: 20/20
• Comfort: 19/20

TOTAL: 98/100

First, let’s start with this gorgeous belted jacket (that I literally wear three times a week). The coat is all about balancing structure with softness, reimagining classic trench vibes with a more casual, daytime-friendly length. The rich cocoa hue is also a standout—it’s a warm, earthy shade that captures light beautifully, giving the suede a natural luster that’s soft rather than shiny. It pairs effortlessly with both neutral and bold tones—think: a crisp white turtleneck and wide-leg trousers for a classic daytime look, or layered over an all-black ensemble with chunky gold jewelry for an evening out. Not to mention that the double-breasted front is classic but feels fresh, with buttons that subtly blend with the coat’s rich tone rather than cheapening the look. 

What I love most about the Lisa, however, is how the suede is thick enough to feel substantial without being heavy, and the satin lining allows for easy layering over knits and other cool-weather essentials. The true-to-size fit also gives you flexibility—you can size up for layering chunky knits or go fitted for a sleeker silhouette—and the belted waist means it looks polished in any size. Not only does this allow me to cinch for a defined shape or leave it loose for a relaxed, slouchy vibe but the pockets are also deep and discreet, adding functionality without disrupting the clean lines of the coat. 

• Style: 19/20
• Fit: 18/20
• Quality: 20/20
• Longevity: 18/20
• Comfort: 19/20

TOTAL: 94/100

Next, we have the show-stopping Corrin trench. Unlike the Lisa’s shorter, structured design, this coat leans into pure drama with an ankle-grazing length that commands a room. It’s an obvious show-stopper—whether layered over a fitted black dress and heeled boots or a silk skirt and stilettos—where the deep espresso hue has a luxurious texture that makes heads turn. (Case in point: I wore it to a birthday dinner at Beefbar last weekend, and the compliments just kept coming.) Plus, despite being crafted from suede, it’s surprisingly insulating; it offers a level of warmth that rivals my puffer coats. And thanks to the satin lining, it's surprisingly comfortable, given the structured build.

That said, what really sets this coat apart are its details. First, you have the shoulder pads, which add just the right amount of form to make it feel tailored and architectural. The double-breasted front is punctuated by oversized, tonal buttons that lend a touch of vintage charm to an otherwise modern piece. And of course, there's the waist tie, which is wide, substantial and flexible: You can cinch it tightly to create a nipped-in, dramatic silhouette or let it hang loose for a more relaxed, flowing fit. I personally love to tie it when I’m layering over a fitted dress; it’s an easy way to make a simple LBD feel striking. It's not a coat I’d throw on for errands, but it’s perfect for a special night when I want to make an entrance.

Owning a suede coat like the Corrin or Lisa does require a little upkeep, but in my opinion, it’s worth the effort. After two months of heavy wear, I’ve found that a good protector spray is my best friend—it forms a barrier against stains and moisture, which has saved my coats more than once. In fact, someone recently spilled beer on the Lisa (cue heart-stopping moment), but with a quick dab from a cloth, the spot blended right in. 

It’s also worth mentioning that a suede brush is handy for keeping the nap lifted and fresh (though I rely mostly on the spray to do the heavy lifting.) All in all, regular touch-ups with the protector spray have helped to keep the suede looking rich and flawless. Plus, for storage, I always hang my coats in a breathable garment bag to prevent moisture buildup (which is included with every Ducie order.)

While both coats are undeniably stunning, I’d say that the Lisa jacket edges out as the smarter investment piece. Its shorter, more versatile silhouette effortlessly transitions from day to night, making it the kind of coat you can throw on for brunch in SoHo and still wear to dinner in the West Village. The unexpected design, with its mix of trench-inspired details and luxe suede, feels unique enough to justify the price tag, delivering both style and practicality in one package. (Not to mention that it's slightly more affordable than its counterpart.)

To that end, as much as I love the drama of the Corrin coat, it admittedly doesn’t get nearly as much action as the Lisa. The Corrin is a statement piece through and through, best saved for special occasions or evenings when I want to make an impression. But for an everyday go-to that feels luxurious and elevates every outfit, the Lisa is the one that truly holds its own.