In this round of Style Staples, we’re spotlighting Bottega Veneta, a house synonymous with understated luxury and masterful craftsmanship, highlighting their timeless pieces that seamlessly blend heritage and modern sophistication.
Founded in 1966 in Vicenza, Italy, by Michele Taddei and Renzo Zengiaro, Bottega Veneta built its reputation on discreet elegance. Its signature intrecciato leatherwork became a symbol of quiet luxury, appealing to those who valued craftsmanship over logos. However, by the 1990s, financial struggles pushed the brand toward obscurity until its acquisition by the Gucci Group (now Kering) in 2001.
Tomas Maier, appointed creative director, revived the brand with a focus on minimalism and artisanal excellence, restoring its prestige over 17 years. In 2018, Daniel Lee infused a fresh, modern edge, introducing cult-favourite designs and amplifying exclusivity by pulling the brand off social media. His departure in 2021 paved the way for Matthieu Blazy, who now leads Bottega Veneta’s evolution, seamlessly balancing tradition with innovation.
With a renewed creative vision, the house continues to redefine luxury with impeccable design and craftsmanship. Now, let’s explore five of Bottega Veneta’s most iconic bags – true investment pieces for any collection.
Andiamo
Starting with one of the It bags of last year (and we foresee, this year), the Andiamo bag – Italian for “let’s go” – was introduced in 2023 under Matthieu Blazy’s creative direction. Crafted from Bottega Veneta’s signature intrecciato woven leather, the Andiamo comes in several variations, including the small, medium, large, mini, clutch, and East-West versions, catering to different needs – from compact essentials to spacious carryalls.
The bag is also available in a range of colours, from classic neutrals like black and caramel to seasonal statement shades, ensuring a perfect match for any wardrobe. Since its debut, the Andiamo has become a modern icon, embraced by big names such as our very own Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Michelle Yeoh and RM from BTS.
Shop Andiamo here.
Jodie
Featuring the brand’s signature intrecciato woven leather, the Jodie bag’s curved, crescent-like silhouette and distinctive knotted handle give it an effortlessly chic appeal. Introduced under Daniel Lee’s creative direction, the Jodie quickly gained cult status, thanks to its slouchy yet sophisticated design. Fashion insiders, celebrities, and It-girls embraced it, making it a must-have accessory.
Available in a variety of sizes and colours – from classic neutrals to bold statement hues – the Jodie seamlessly blends versatility with elegance. Today, it remains one of Bottega Veneta’s most coveted bags, proving that true luxury is about craftsmanship, timelessness, and the quiet confidence of exceptional design.
Shop Jodie here.
Sardine
Debuting under Matthieu Blazy’s creative direction, the Sardine takes inspiration from the beloved Jodie bag, sharing the same curved, crescent-like silhouette, but with a bold new element – a gleaming metal top handle shaped like a sardine.
This unexpected yet refined detail instantly set the Sardine apart, making it a favourite among fashion insiders, celebrities, and trendsetters. Its blend of soft intrecciato leather and rigid metallic contrast embodies Bottega Veneta’s signature balance of craftsmanship and contemporary edge.
Shop Sardine here.
Pouch
One of Daniel Lee’s most influential creations during his time at Bottega Veneta was The Pouch – a soft, voluminous clutch that instantly became a cult favourite since its introduction in 2018. Its effortless, unstructured silhouette and supple leather construction embodied quiet luxury, making it a must-have among celebrities, influencers, and fashion insiders.
The Pouch’s popularity skyrocketed, dominating street style and solidifying Bottega Veneta’s status as the ultimate in contemporary sophistication. As one of the brand’s most iconic bags, it remains a statement of understated elegance, proving that simplicity – when done right – can be just as powerful as bold branding.
Shop The Pouch here.
Cassette
Another defining piece in the brand’s lineup, contributed by Daniel Lee, is the Bottega Veneta Cassette bag. With its bold, padded intrecciato weave and sleek silhouette, the bag redefines the brand’s signature craftsmanship for a modern, contemporary audience.
The Cassette’s design embraces both form and function, offering a versatile, everyday luxury piece that has won over fashion insiders and celebrities such as Jacob Elordi and Margot Robbie. Its distinctive, plush texture and innovative structure reflect Bottega Veneta’s dedication to innovation while staying rooted in the brand’s artisanal legacy.
Shop Cassette here.
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