Bottega Veneta is gearing up for a monumental year, with new creative director Louise Trotter set to unveil her vision for the iconic Italian label in September. But before that, the brand is celebrating a significant milestone: the 50th anniversary of its renowned Intrecciato weave. This signature technique, introduced just a few years after Bottega Veneta was founded in Veneto, Italy, has been instrumental in establishing the brand’s reputation for craftsmanship and creativity.
Barbara Zanin, Bottega Veneta’s Director of Craft and Heritage, reminisces about the brand’s early days in the 1960s Italian market, which was saturated with heavy, structured handbags. In contrast, Bottega Veneta’s designs stood out for their softness, fluidity, and simplicity. The introduction of the Intrecciato weave added a new dimension to the brand’s bags, giving them a fabric-like fluidity that set them apart from the competition.
The Intrecciato technique involves weaving long leather strips, known as fettucce, into a leather base in a diagonal pattern. This unique approach, akin to cutting fabric on the bias, results in a softer, more supple structure. In a departure from the logo-heavy trends of other luxury brands, Bottega Veneta chose to keep its branding discreet, with the tagline “People know a Bottega the minute they see one. So we put our name on the inside only.”
The Intrecciato weave gained further recognition in popular culture when it was featured in Paul Schrader’s 1980 film “American Gigolo,” where Lauren Hutton’s character carried a burgundy clutch with effortless style. This iconic bag was later re-released as the “Lauren Clutch” in 2017, becoming a favorite among celebrities and fashion enthusiasts who appreciate understated luxury. While the Intrecciato weave has become synonymous with Bottega Veneta’s heritage, it continues to captivate with its timeless elegance and unmistakable charm.
As Bottega Veneta looks ahead to its future under Louise Trotter’s creative direction, the brand’s rich legacy and innovative spirit are sure to continue shaping the fashion landscape for years to come. Stay tuned for more exciting developments from this storied Italian house.
