Trending: Dry Heat

Photography by Joshua Scott

History lesson: Suede was originally used to make gloves that were imported from Sweden. But this soft, flexible leather once meant for winter apparel eventually became popular in warmer regions, embraced by Southwestern cowboys and Californian hippies alike. This season, Bottega Veneta made it the centerpiece of its collection, creating all-suede looks with airy tunics and desert boots. Light and protective, it's a material perfectly suited for long spring trails through the urban wilderness -- just steer clear of the water.

From left: shoe by Ermenegildo Zegna, $650; sneaker by Bottega Veneta, $690; pencil cases by Coach, $68 each; chukka boot by Cole Haan, $228; bag by Bottega Veneta, $2,600; belt by Ermenegildo Zegna, $280; studded belt by Dior Homme, $600