Butter-soft and practical, let Bennett Winch’s new suede bags carry the load
This six-piece collection is ‘built for those who take on the rough with the smooth’
Words: Josh Lee
Down is superb for winter fortification, and cashmere is always nice to wear throughout the festive break. But suede – the coveted fabric that balances between buttery softness and hardwearing ruggedness – is for year-round use. ‘Simply put, it looks luxurious, but it’s built for a kicking,’ says Bennett Winch of its new Suede Collection in tobacco brown.
Whether it’s showcased via your footwear or your jacket – or, in this case, your bags and accessories – the napped leather has long been admired for that hybrid quality. Moreover, as with many other premium materials, it has the ability to age gracefully over time, taking on a patina – such as scarring or softening – that acts like the mark of a life well lived. It’s something that Bennett Winch calls the ‘heirloom quality.’
Bennett Winch, Suede Collection, bennettwinch.com
The label’s new six-piece range has been hand-produced in England by master craftspeople, and each item is made with a top layer that has been given a water-resistant coating. Moss backing – a process of applying a layer of resin to the underside of the suede to guarantee impermeability to water – has also been incorporated. The result is a range ‘built for those who take on the rough with the smooth.’
For everyday use there’s the Suede Tote, which is made with a long handle so it can be carried at the side or over the shoulder – and its zip-secure top and fully padded laptop sleeve ensures that essentials are safe and sound.
The Suede Brief has a similarly streamlined silhouette, as well as a padded laptop sleeve, but it’s made distinct with its full-leather storm hood and its sleeve on the back which you can slip over a carry-on handle.
For hands-free movement, you might want to consider the Suede Backpack – we particularly like its removable internal wet pouch that allows you to separate items. A full mouth opening means you can assess everything inside with ease, and there’s the option to add on a luggage slip.
Then come the big-ticket items: the holdalls. With its 32L of storage, the Suede Commuter is best for overnight trips. There’s a pop-out wet pouch in which you can store your gym gear, footwear or laundry. And, overall, it has a pared-down, fuss-free look about it.
The Suede S.C Holdall caters to those carting their formalwear around. The whole thing is centred on a lightweight canvas inner that, too, holds 32L of storage; and, wrapped securely around that is a suit carrier that minimises hard creases, meaning you can seamlessly carry your favourite tailoring to the next conference abroad.
To round it all out is the Suede Weekender, based on the first model of bag that Bennett Winch made. It’s a touch bigger, with 42L, has a fully padded laptop sleeve, two separate shoe compartments, and the mix of suede with Tuscan leather and British-cast brass harmonises beautifully to create a ready-for-adventure appearance.
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