Designer Deep Dive: Bottega Veneta

I’m back with another Designer Deep Dive post! Last month got away from me but I’m so excited to get back on my normal schedule of posting these the first Friday of every month…which I realize isn’t today 😉 Better late than never! I’ve been seeing so many bloggers and celebrities wearing Bottega Veneta bags and shoes over the last year and it’s made me want to learn more about this Italian designer. How did they get their start? What is with the woven leather pattern that makes their leather goods so popular?! Let’s find out together!

Italian designer Bottega Veneta was founded by Michele Taddei and Renzo Zengiaro in 1966. They initially started out crafting artisan leather goods using a distinct woven pattern called the Intrecciato, which instantly became the brand’s signature look. This pattern was quite a stark contrast from other designers manufacturing leather goods that were logo-centric such as Louis Vuitton and Gucci. They did an advertising campaign to capitalize on their more understated design with a tag line of: ‘When your own initials are enough’. Zengiaro left Bottega Veneta at the end of the ‘70s and Taddei handed over the company to his ex-wife Laura Braggion. Laura took the reigns with her second husband Vittorio Moltedo and was the brand’s creative director. She contributed to the early success of the brand in the U.S. and also became Andy Warhol’s assistant, which may seem irrelevant, but his studios made the short film “Bottega Veneta Industrial Videotape” in 1985 which helped promote the brand even more. Laura also opened the first store there in New York in 1972 under her reign. The brand achieved a lot of success during the ‘60s and ‘70s and became known for their craftsmanship and high-end quality.

Andy Warhol kissing a Bottega Veneta shoe.

In 1995 Edward Buchanan joined Bottega Veneta right after graduating from Parsons School of Design in New York. He was tasked with creating their first-ever women’s ready-to-wear collection which debuted 3 years later during their fashion show at Palazzo Serbelloni in Milan. During the ‘90s the brand lost it’s way a little bit and hopped on the trend train rather than staying true to their minimalist approach. This ultimately diluted their brand and didn’t provide clear messaging to their customers who had come to know and trust Bottega for it’s quality leather goods. It wasn’t until the Gucci Group acquired them in 2001 that they regained their footing and went back to their roots, thanks to creative director Tomas Maier. He revived the classic Intrecciato leather pattern and even started a school to train leather artisans. Maier turned the brand around after it’s ‘90s slump and brought back the women’s ready-to-wear collection (which had been scrapped by Gucci) and also created a menswear line. He continued to prove that Bottega was a sophisticated, discreet luxury brand amidst a logo-crazy world and they were here to stay.

Bottega Veneta shoes and bags spotted on the streets.

Maier left the brand in 2018 after spending 17 years there! Under his leadership, revenues went from 48 million euros to almost 1.2 billion euros in 2017, but the brand had struggled to keep up with rapid changes in the consumer landscape and wasn’t able to reach a Millennial audience. That, however, wouldn’t be an issue for new creative director Daniel Lee. He had a wealth of experience working at former luxury brands such as Céline, Balenciaga, and Donna Karan. Lee was responsible for creating several trendy pieces that captured the attention of celebrities and influencers alike, such as the Pouch bag and the Lido sandals, all done in their signature woven leather pattern. Lee exited the brand in November ‘21, which was speculated as a layoff and resulted from some tense work relationships.

Matthieu Blazy was promoted internally a few days later and debuted his first show as creative director in February ‘22. “Matthieu Blazy is an extraordinarily talented individual, whom I am proud and excited to entrust with the creative helm of our luxury House. Bottega Veneta has always been equated with signature craftsmanship and distinctive creativity,” said Bottega Veneta CEO Rongone in a statement. “Matthieu’s appointment will further enhance the modern relevance of our brand and accelerate our growth, while preserving the values that are at the core of Bottega Veneta.” I’ve continued to see this brand worn by many influencers and bloggers that I follow and it’s continued to peak my interest as a sleek and elegant brand. One of my friends purchased a bag recently and it’s stunning! After seeing the craftsmanship and quality in person I can totally see why Bottega handbags are highly sought after. Check out some of my favorites below!