WORDS BY LUCY HARDY
Fashion is shifting gear from maximalist logomania to modern minimalism, and it’s Daniel Lee — Creative Director of Bottega Veneta, who’s largely responsible for the change in pace. From ‘Old Céline’ to ‘New Bottega,’ the former director of ready-to-wear at Céline is often credited with picking up where Phoebe Philo left off with his Bottega designs, answering the prayers of women everywhere.
The Bradford-born designer certainly takes us to minimalist heaven with his fresh take on Bottega’s iconic legacy, offering a masterclass in brand reinvention in the process. It’s the accessories that have really struck gold, especially the bags and shoes. Bottega’s heritage has been revived for a new era. The signature Intrecciato weave has received a supersize update, square-toe shoes have officially been made cool and the dumpling-shaped Pouch bag has left the fashion world hungry for more.
Luckily, Daniel Lee continues his winning streak with the BV Jodie bag. The slouchy design is named after actress Jodie Foster (of ‘Silence of the Lambs’ fame) and inspired by the time she was pictured using her Bottega bag to shield from the paparazzi. As with all Bottega Veneta bags, the Jodie is crafted in Italy from supple world-class leather and comes in a range of colorways and a choice of sizes. Read our BV Jodie bag review to discover which size shoulder bag is right for you.
With the brand’s signature Intrecciato weave all over, this bag is Bottega through and through. Each colorway is equally as exciting as the last and will add a pop of color to a neutral Bottega dress and a pair of square-toe mules. The slouchy design means this Bottega shoulder bag is deceptively larger than it seems, with enough space for an iPhone, purse, lipstick and glasses. Dimensions: Depth: 10cm. Handle: 7cm. Height: 12cm. Width: 25cm.
The mini BV Jodie may be little but it certainly packs a punch in a range of bright colors, from hot pink to acid green. This style comes in sleek leather, if you’re not feeling the weave effect, and features the signature knot detail. It holds all the charm of being a mini bag, whilst still being big enough to hold all your essentials — including the iPhone 11 Pro, charger pack, glasses, lipstick and purse. Dimensions: Depth: 14cm. Handle: 15cm. Height: 10cm. Width: 25cm.
Bottega Veneta Jodie Shoulder Bag
If you’re the type for whom the bare necessities just won’t suffice, then you may prefer the Bottega Veneta Jodie shoulder bag — the largest of our trio. Like its little sister, this shoulder bag is crafted from the brand’s trademark Intrecciato weave, features the signature knot detail and will fit all your essentials, plus an iPad. But if you’re looking for a bag that will fit your MacBook too, then the even larger Maxi may be the one for you. The biggest of the BV Jodie bags, this sling-style is large enough to wrap around your body (or hide yourself from the paparazzi à la Jodie Foster). Dimensions: Depth: 10cm. Handle: 22cm. Height: 23cm. Width: 41cm.