Bottega Veneta

Bottega Veneta got its start in Vicenza in the Northeast region of Italy. Besides delectable cuisine, Italy is also known for its premium leather, and Bottega Veneta is no exception. From the brand’s inception in 1966, Bottega has reinvented itself several times, changing designer hands. Bottega lost some of its steam and time in the shoe limelight come the 90’s, so they recruited a foreign import, a Brit to be more precise. Giles Deacon took over the design team, punching up Bottega Veneta’s sex appeal and introducing bolder styles. As Bottega reclaimed its position on fashion’s forefront, Tom Ford from Gucci took notice and persuaded the Gucci Group to buy Bottega Veneta in 2000. With Ford making the calls, Bottego underwent yet another design makeover-its second in 10 years. Ford handed the design reins over to German born Tomas Maier, whose aesthetic focused on more understated, classic designs that were ready to wear by the fashion masses. Bottega Veneta continues to be well known for its luxury leather goods from head to foot. Their men’s and women’s shoe collections embody a mixture of Maier’s classic taste and today’s hottest trends. Women’s styles for Spring and Fall incorporate chunky high heels and feminine silhouettes. Some of Tomas’s picks include rounded two toned Mary Janes with buckled straps across the front. The company slogan loosely translates to “when your own initials are enough.” In other words, a Bottega Veneta design should be easy to spot. Some things get lost in translation, but great style. That’s something you can understand in every language.