Ong Chin Huat explores the history of fashion brand – Bottega Veneta

Understated luxury is what Bottega Veneta is all about and to that end it has delivered many times over to a new breed of consumers who demand high quality and superb craftsmanship in a restrained and discreet way.

Since its founding in Vicenza in 1966, this venerable brand has continued to produce goods which is steeped in the traditions of Italy’s master leather craftsmen and long celebrated for its extraordinary leather goods. Today, Bottega Veneta has earned its highly regarded reputation as one of the world’s premier luxury brands. The company’s famous motto, “When your own initials are enough,” expresses a philosophy of individuality and confidence that now applies to a range of products including women’s and men’s ready-to-wear, fine jewellery, furniture, and more.

While Bottega Veneta continues to expand, the characteristics that define it remain a constant: outstanding craftsmanship, innovative design, contemporary functionality and the highest quality materials. Also constant is Bottega Veneta’s commitment to its ateliers, where artisans of remarkable skill combine traditional mastery with state-of-the-art innovation. Indeed, there is an unusual and inspired collaboration between artisan and designer at the heart of Bottega Veneta’s approach to luxury, symbolised by the house’s signature intrecciato woven leather. In the summer of 2006, in recognition of the importance of artisanal craftsmanship and the fragility of this traditional way of life, Bottega Veneta opened a school to train and support future generations of leather artisans.

The most recent chapter in Bottega Veneta’s history began in February 2001, when the company was acquired by PPR Luxury Group, formerly known as Gucci Group. Creative Director Tomas Maier came on board in June of that year and presented his first collection, Spring-Summer 2002, to immediate critical acclaim. From the start, the house’s sensibility was refined, sensuous and intensely personal, designed for a customer who is sophisticated and self-assured. In the years since, Bottega Veneta has introduced exciting additions to the collection, including fragrance, fine jewellery, a watch, furniture, and home accessories, while continuing to offer an exclusive and coveted assortment of ready-to-wear, handbags, shoes, small leather goods, eyewear, luggage, and gifts.

Under Tomas Maier, Bottega Veneta has emerged as a brand synonymous with discreet and understated luxury.  And testament to Bottega Veneta’s success is its sales figure for 2012 – US$1 billion.  Its Fall/Winter 2013 Collection recently presented in Milan exhibited architectural and sculptural silhouettes in bold colours. Also high-waisted 1950’s sweaters in cashmere and pleated flannel skirts paired with croco laced-up high heeled boots looked demure alongside sharply tailored coats.