IT all started with a picture of THAT skirt - fashionista Alexa Chung in a calf-length 1970-inspired brown suede skirt from M&S.

The internet went mad, and M&S, not for the first time, found itself in possession of the season's most-wanted item. The Alexa picture also helpfully highlighted for us lesser mortals one of the key summer trends - suede.

Thanks to its durability, suede never really goes out of fashion, of course, but it's back in a big way this season, and considering how chilly the weather has been in Glasgow over the last few weeks, that's probably no bad thing.

There's something warm and comforting about suede, and as with leather, if well looked after it looks better and better with wear.

The M&S skirt worn by Alexa, priced £199, has been flying off the shelves since its release earlier this month. And for those who can't stretch their finances to almost £200, M&S helpfully brought out a suedette version for just £40.

Both of these skirts can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion and look great teamed with a denim jacket and flats for day, or high-heeled sandals and a smarter jacket for evening.

So why did the skirt create so much fuss in the first place? Grazia magazine's fashion editor Lily Russo told the Guardian it's all about making an investment.

She added: "It's a classic wardrobe buy. Suede skirts can be hard to come by - especially at this length and on the high street. Add the buzz generated through celebrity sightings and you have a sell-out product. Plus, the 70s trend is huge for the summer."

Other high street brands have also been on a suede trip, with skirts, jackets, sandals and bags on offer to suit every look and wallet. Skirts are coming in a variety of different lengths, from the trendy M&S midi, to minis at Miss Selfridge and Dorothy Perkins, and range from A-lines to pencil, button-fronted to tasselled.

Suede sandals, meanwhile, are a classic summer accessory, and this year there's even more to choose from, flats to strappy gladiator, quirky block heels or smart mules.

Mixing a suede bag into the look is easy, with some great rucksacks and totes on offer for work, and smart clutches and less formal cross-body items ideal for evening.

Of course, it's not just the high street that is filled with suede this year. Vintage and charity shops are always a great option for those looking for something that's genuinely retro, and there's every possibility that you'll bag a bargain in the process.

So, this season there really is no excuse. Time to get out those blue - or brown - suede shoes and strut into summer.