Written by Kendall Becker
Even if you’re not fully attuned to the inner workings of the handbag market, you’ll surely have noted the significance (and buzz) of Bottega Veneta. The Italian luxury brand was birthed under the ethos that less is truly more –– a style code that tests time and harbors an undeniable je ne sais quoi. While other accessory labels rely on look-at-me hardware or all-over printed logos as demonstrative brand identifiers, Bottega Veneta’s luxuriously minimalist approach relies on logo-less iterations that imply an insider status — if you can spot the style.
“While other accessory labels rely on look-at-me hardware or all-over printed logos as demonstrative brand identifiers, Bottega Veneta’s luxuriously minimalist approach relies on logo-less iterations that imply an insider status — if you can spot the style. “
The house, instead, roots its brand identity in signature design codes; in fact, their intrecciato weave (a leather weave that mirrors a diagonal basket-weave) is world renowned –– so much so that it has a running list of appearances in iconic pop-culture events through the decades, from Lauren Hutton in American Gigolo, to the 2008 paparazzi photo of actress Jodie Foster carrying her intrecciato Bottega Veneta bag, which later inspired the namesake
“Jodie” bag within the collection.
Yet, as the decades pass and the craving for newness becomes inevitable, the mission stands to craft a design formula that marries modern creativity with rich history and refined sophistication –– and in recent years, Bottega Veneta has done just that, creating a veritable arsenal of “It” bags.
“Yet, as the decades pass and the craving for newness becomes inevitable, the mission stands to craft a design formula that marries modern creativity with rich history and refined sophistication –– and in recent years, Bottega Veneta has done just that, creating a veritable arsenal of “It” bags.”
In Spring/Summer 2019, BV introduced the Pouch to the collection. This cloud-like clutch is constructed of supple calfskin leather, gently folded for a voluminous, ruched effect. The style seemingly signals a casual undertone with its understated approach to elegance while bringing head-turning newness to the market. The Pouch juxtaposed what was leading the market at that moment (think circle bags, box bags and micro-minis), instantly launching the style to “It” bag status –– keeping in lockstep with the chicly understated, timeless design codes of the house.
“As seasons passed, the Pouch was tastefully remixed with updates that adhere to the house’s “less is more” ethos. Case in point: newness doesn’t mean “reinventing the wheel” per se, but simply focusing on history through a reinvigorated lens.”
As seasons passed, the Pouch was tastefully remixed with updates that adhere to the house’s “less is more” ethos. Currently, you can find options updated with chain straps, eye-catching colors, various sizes, and, of course, Bottega Veneta’s signature intrecciato weave. Case in point: newness doesn’t mean “reinventing the wheel” per se, but simply focusing on history through a reinvigorated lens.
Sticking to the codified guidelines of timeless elegance inherent to the Bottega Veneta stable of handbags, the Cassette bag launched into the market in Pre-Fall 2019 and was shortly followed by the updated Padded Cassette in Fall/Winter 2019. This style features an exaggerated play on the intrecciato weave, almost appearing as a “zoomed in” view of the classic construction. The plush padding, which feels native to the house’s relaxed sensibility, perfectly complements the historic refinement of the weave and rectangular silhouette; plus, this style touts a crossbody strap, making it an easy staple for chic women on-the-go, like style mavens Leonie Hanne, Caroline Daur, and Chloé Harrouche.
And, the renditions of the Cassette do not stop there; during this era, color became key for the legacy label. Even for the minimalist, adding a punch of color to an outfit can take any look to the next level as an approachable way to mix up the tried-and-true formula with a piece that’s aligned with one’s aesthetic. Colors including Lollipop, Blaster and Buttercup have become instant favorites, with the most coveted being Parakeet green. This particular hue is now synonymous with the brand, transforming it into a staple for both their ranges of accessories and apparel. All in all, color play resulted in an of-the-moment way to lean into trend without sacrificing an elevated style code.
Even as trends come and go, it is undeniable this stable of icons will live on forever.
“Even as trends come and go, it is undeniable this stable of icons will live on forever.”
