Bottega Veneta Handbag History: From Intrecciato to the Giorno
Bottega Veneta, established in 1966 in Vicenza by Michele Taddei and Renzo Zengiaro, gained fame for its Intrecciato weave, initially developed to address sewing machine limitations with thick leather. The brand's cultural impact surged in 1985 when Andy Warhol filmed a short segment featuring a Bottega loafer. A notable moment occurred in 1980 when Lauren Hutton showcased a Bottega clutch in "American Gigolo," later reviving it on the runway in 2017. Following its acquisition by Gucci Group in 2001, Bottega has seen a succession of creative directors, with Louise Trotter set to unveil the Giorno bag in the spring/summer 2026 collection.
Key facts
- Bottega Veneta founded in 1966 in Vicenza by Michele Taddei and Renzo Zengiaro.
- Intrecciato weave originated as a workaround for sewing machines unable to handle thick leather.
- Andy Warhol kissed a Bottega loafer and made a short film for the label in 1985.
- Lauren Hutton carried a Bottega clutch in 1980's American Gigolo; revived in 2017 with Hutton on runway.
- Gucci Group (Kering) acquired Bottega Veneta in 2001; Tomas Maier appointed creative director.
- Daniel Lee creative director from June 2018 to fall 2021; introduced Cassette and Jodie bags.
- Matthieu Blazy creative director from fall 2021 to late 2024; introduced Sardine and Kalimero.
- Louise Trotter became creative director in 2025; debuted Giorno bag in spring/summer 2026 collection.
Entities
Artists
- Andy Warhol
- Lauren Hutton
- Richard Gere
- Kendall Jenner
- Rosie Huntington-Whiteley
- Jodie Foster
- Michele Taddei
- Renzo Zengiaro
- Laura Braggion
- Vittorio Moltedo
- Tomas Maier
- Daniel Lee
- Matthieu Blazy
- Louise Trotter
Institutions
- Bottega Veneta
- Gucci Group
- Kering
- Chanel
- Vogue
Locations
- Vicenza
- Italy
- Manhattan
- New York
- Sardinia
- Madison Avenue