Bottega Veneta Bags Have an Ethos

While other Italian brands may be synonymous with over-the-top maximalism, Bottega Veneta has always had an ethos of its own. It’s an ethos that current creative director Matthieu Blazy, as well as predecessor Daniel Lee, have embraced and elevated in their designs.

One of the best examples is the iconic intrecciato bag, which has become a staple for the brand since it first debuted in 2002. While it appears to be simply strips of leather woven together, the technique is actually a highly sophisticated weaving process that requires incredible skill and precision.

The Cabat bag from the Maier era is another example. It’s a squarish top handle tote that has remained popular ever since its debut in 2001, and it remains faithful to the house’s codes by not having any lining or panels.

The supple leather Jodie bag is also a defining piece of the line. It quickly earned it-bag status after debuting in 2020 as part of Lee’s collection, and the style has continued to evolve since then. The latest iteration is a shoulder bag that’s gathered like a dumpling with a curved top handle and comes in several sizes.

Other identifying marks include the use of Riri brand zippers (which can be identified by the butterfly design on the underside) and a logo-engraved clasp. On older styles, the engraved clasp has a more matte finish and is slightly rough to the touch, while current bags have a smooth, sanded finish. Finally, authentic bags will feature a serial number tag with a unique multi-digit code. bottega veneta bag