suede-shoe operator

plural suede-shoe operators

1. slangA flashy and dishonest trader.

   Here's the best way to smoke out the Suede Shoe Operator: Ask about money. Insist on knowing the dates you'll get paid and the exact amount.

   1986, William D. Mitchell, Contractor's Survival Manual, page 128

   2 more examples

   In any event, the first time the homeowner comes in contact with the contractor is when the job is actually performed. By then, Childers said, the "suede shoe" operator has skipped town and the contractor is responsible […]

   1959, Weekly News Letter, volumes 1-2

   The profit allowance must be such that it will discourage the "speculator" or "suede shoe" operator. The purpose is to exclude from FHA insured properties the possibility of exorbitant profits at the purchaser's expense.

   1970, United States. Congress. Senate. Select Committee on Equal Educational Opportunity, Equal Educational Opportunity: Hearings, page 10855