Bottega Veneta Debuts 'Real World' Collection

- Louise Trotter was appointed creative director in December 2024, taking over from Matthieu Blazy who departed for Chanel after a critically and commercially successful three-year tenure. - Trotter's career includes creative director roles at Carven, Lacoste, and nearly a decade at Joseph, where she established a reputation for minimalist sophistication and wearable luxury. - Her debut for the Spring/Summer 2026 season coincided with Bottega Veneta's 60th anniversary and the 50th anniversary of its signature Intrecciato weaving technique. - The collection featured 76 looks for both men and women and revisited archival handbag designs like the "Lauren" and "Cabat" while introducing new styles. - Trotter is the first woman to lead the house's creative direction since Laura Braggion, who held the role from 1980 to 2001. - For the show's soundtrack, Trotter collaborated with Oscar-winning artist and director Steve McQueen, who created a piece blending Nina Simone's and David Bowie's versions of the song "Wild Is the Wind." - The brand’s foundational Intrecciato weave was originally developed out of necessity, as early artisans plaited thin leather strips for strength because their sewing machines couldn't handle thicker hides.