Much to the shock of fans everywhere, fashion house Bottega Veneta has announced the decision to end their collaboration with Creative Director Daniel Lee in a move that both parties say is a joint decision.
Lee has been the creative helm at the house since 1 July 2018, bringing with him a new energy that greatly sped up the momentum of Bottega Veneta to what it is today.
Leo Rongone, CEO of Bottega Veneta stated, “I would like to thank Daniel for his dedication to the House over the past three years. He provided Bottega Veneta with a fresh perspective and a new sense of modernity, while remaining respectful of the brand’s fifty-year heritage. The remarkable growth of the brand over the last three years bears the testimony to the success of his creative work.”
François-Henri Pinault, Chairman & CEO of Kering, declared, “I am very grateful to Daniel for having brought his passion and energy to Bottega Veneta. His singular vision made the House’s heritage relevant for today and put it back to the center of the fashion scene. I would like to personally thank him for the unique chapter that he has written in the long history of Bottega Veneta.”
Daniel Lee stated, “My time at Bottega Veneta has been an incredible experience. I am grateful to have worked with an exceptional and talented team and I am forever thankful to everyone who was part of creating our vision. Thank you to Francois-Henri Pinault for his support, and for the opportunity to be part of Bottega Veneta’s story.
The House sent out a release to the press that says a new creative organisation for the House will be announced soon. While we wait for further news, here’s a lookback at the best designs from Daniel for the house that we won’t forget.
You might also be interested in: 10 most iconic designer bags of all time
The Pouch Bag
Easily Daniel’s most popular design from his time at the helm of the House, the Pouch Bag debuted in the Spring 2019 collection, inspired by the House’s iconic Intrecciato Weave. Its minimalistic, no logo design of soft calfskin leather gently folded to resemble a pouch was an instant hit and went on to join the It bag ranks of Dior’s Saddle Bag and Fendi’s Baguette Bag. Over the years, it has evolved to come in different colours, textures and styles.
The Cassette Bag
Another It Bag was birthed with the Pre-Fall 2019 collection – the Cassette Bag. The structural rectangular bag most identified by oversized weavings was taken a step further under Daniel’s artistic direction. He added some cushioning to the weave and introduced the Padded Cassette.
Bottega Green
Like how Louboutin has claims over its Louboutin Red, Daniel gave Bottega Veneta its own shade of hallmark green: the Bottega Green. The bright green first saw light in the House’s Spring 2021 ready-to-wear collection and quickly became one of the most popular hues of the year, proudly dressing its other apparel, handbag, shoes, accessories and more.
The Stretch Sandals
Daniel did accessories, clothes and footwear equally well and it showed with the Stretch Sandal that debuted in Bottega Veneta’s Pre-Fall 2019 collection. Available in a strappy sandal version as well as a netted mesh and chain version, both have become equal favourites among fans.
The Lido Sandals
Spinning off from the Cassette Bag are the Lido Sandals, which is one of the most iconic heel styles of the year. The slip-on sandal combines the house’s iconic woven leather and, much like the Cassette Bag, also comes with a padded style version.
The Jodie Bag
Named after the actress Jodie Foster, The Jodie Bag is Daniel’s modernised iteration of the House’s hobo bag. He incorporated a knot into the handle and designed it with the Intreciatto Weave for a popular bag that comes in several sizes and colours.
(Photos: Bottega Veneta)
