Five decades later, Bottega Veneta's iconic weave continues to stand out as unparalleled.
Only a handful of fashion brands are renowned for their craftsmanship rather than just their logos. An iconic emblem on a handbag flap or an embroidered name on a tank top are typical indicators of designer quality. In contrast, Bottega Veneta employs a 50-year-old weaving technique to create some of the most durable accessories in the industry, which supersedes the need for both logo and brand name. The design house from Vicenza requires no introduction—its distinctive Intrecciato pattern can be recognized from a distance.
Founded in 1966 by Michele Taddei and Renzo Zengiaro, Bottega Veneta began as a leather goods workshop in the Veneto region of northeastern Italy. They introduced the Intrecciato technique in 1975, transforming fashion history forever. This method, still in use today, involves weaving leather strips known as fettucce around a wooden mold. It was developed by the brand to address the limitations of sewing machines at the time, which couldn't penetrate the thick leather used in their creations, leading to softer silhouettes that are built to last.
At Bottega Veneta, regardless of who is leading—from the brand’s first design director Edward Buchanan and his successor Tomas Maier to Daniel Lee, Matthieu Blazy, and currently Louise Trotter—craftsmanship remains a fundamental source of inspiration and the foundation of each collection. This year, 2025, marks the 50th anniversary of Intrecciato and signifies a new chapter for the brand with Trotter stepping in as creative director. To celebrate the brand’s heritage, fellow Who What Wear fashion editor Kristen Nichols and I took a selection of the Intrecciato handbags currently making waves in the fashion scene, from the Andiamo to the Dustbag, for a trial run. Check out how we styled them and our thoughts below.
Eliza's review: I’m a big admirer of the Andiamo style and Bottega Veneta's Fondant color. I own the conventional Andiamo in small size in this same rich brown hue, and it has become my most adaptable handbag due to its multiple handle options, including crossbody, top handle, and shoulder bag. It gets so much use that I've genuinely considered purchasing a second one. When this East-West version was released, I knew I'd want it. This longer, horizontal design is extraordinarily chic and instantly elevates any outfit. It has various compartments inside, ensuring I never misplace anything, and I appreciate the ability to carry it like a clutch.
Kristen's review: The Dustbag is a fantastic convertible accessory that can be worn as a shoulder bag with tight strings and a leather loop attachment, or transformed into a flat clutch with the drawstrings loosened. The versatility of this bag is endless—it's truly a day-to-night option that adapts to your plans.
Eliza's review: This bag has been on my wishlist since I first saw it. I was just about to buy it in the Sea Salt color over a year ago in Monaco. Unfortunately, when I returned the next day to purchase it, the route to the boutique was closed due to the Monaco Grand Prix, which thwarted my plans. I’ve thought about it regularly since then. I was never a clutch person until this East-West top-handle emerged, as I found clutches impractical for someone like me who doesn’t attend many formal events. What I adore about this style is its versatility. It pairs perfectly with everything from a bridal brunch to a casual day of running errands, matched with a faded tee and vintage jeans. Inside, it boasts several card slots, eliminating the need for a wallet, plus it easily accommodates all my lip products and my iPhone (a Pro, I might add). One of my colleagues, Ana Escalante, has even decided to buy this for her upcoming wedding—such a clever choice!
Kristen's review: One specific bag that has been at the top of my wishlist since its launch is the Bottega Veneta Andiamo tote. It’s crafted from BV's emblematic Intrecciato woven leather and features signature knotted hardware. With both a top handle and a longer strap, this design allows for versatile wear, whether held by hand or worn over the shoulder. Its size and shape are perfect for an everyday bag in NYC, whether I'm off to the office or out on the weekend. But don't just take my word for it—it's also a favorite among the Who What Wear editors, with multiple team members investing in it.
Shop more Bottega Veneta Intrecciato pieces:
- Bottega Veneta Campana in Sea Salt
- Bottega Veneta Andiamo in Fondant
- Bottega Veneta Intrecciato Credit Card Case in Deep Blue
- Bottega Veneta Marella Thong in Light Butterscotch
- Bottega Veneta Lauren 1980 in Fondant
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Five decades later, Bottega Veneta's iconic weave continues to stand out as unparalleled.
To celebrate the anniversary, we experimented with four of the most sought-after Intrecciato bags of 2025.
