A quick glance at this Bottega Veneta Milk Shaded Papier Lambskin Aquilone Bag and I thought it was made out of canvas or another pedestrian fabric, which struck me as unusual for Bottega Veneta. But no, this purse is made of papier leather, which is thin and soft, giving the appearance of a fabric while still fitting with Bottega Veneta‘s high end vibe. And of course, because this purse isn’t made of fabric, the leather itself is hand painted, adding even more luxury and helping to justify the price tag. Available at Bottega Veneta for $2800.

posted: March 18th, 2011
category: Bottega Veneta Bags
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I’ve got a little crush right now, and the object of my affections is this super luxe Bottega Veneta Knot Snakeskin-Trimmed Intrecciato Silk Clutch. Frankly, Bottega Veneta can design almost anything (almost) and I’ll love it. This little evening bag is such a classy complement to a sleek sheath dress or a flowing gown. Since it’s so neutral, it plays well with anything without stealing the limelight completely. The knot accent is quintessential Bottega Veneta, and the snakeskin is a clever touch that brings something different to the usual Intrec design. Love this. Available for $1450 at Net-a-Porter.

posted: March 18th, 2011
category: Bottega Veneta Bags
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With menswear-inspired looks being so incredibly popular in women’s fashion, it’s no surprise even accessories have taken some inspiration from his closet. This Bottega Veneta Roma Intrecciato Leather Tote is a great example of ladylike style with just a hint of masculinity. Beautifully constructed with the same attention to detail that Bottega fans expect of their favorite designer, the bag opens up to reveal three wide compartments. Since designers don’t often make use of the multi-compartment design anymore, that detail alone renders it unique.

It’s finished with impeccable structure and flawless black leather, and is perfect for – you guessed it – workplace activities. It will probably turn some heads as you stride into Starbucks at 6:00 AM for your java fix, too. There’s nothing quite like a confident woman wearing a sexy ensemble and killer heels, with a no-nonsense tote in her grasp. Available for $3080 at Net-a-Porter.

posted: February 24th, 2011
category: Bottega Veneta Bags
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If this Bottega Veneta Veneta Intrecciato Leather Bag were a truffle, I’d gobble it right up. Since it’s merely a handbag, though, I’m just going to judge it. It looks yummy, like it’s been dipped in a vat of dark chocolate and topped with gooey caramel. Here’s the thing, though. In order to carry it, I’d have to severely limit my outfit’s color palette. It’s simply not versatile enough to spend $2650 on, and frankly, anything that makes me crave chocolate every time I see it is Seriously Bad News. Available at Net-a-Porter.

posted: February 22nd, 2011
category: Bottega Veneta Bags
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Here’s something you don’t see every day: Bottega Veneta used their signature style of braided leather to make something other than a small sassy clutch. This Woven Leather Tote has a classic style that makes it the kind of designer bag that you will use for years, before passing it on to a worthy friend or relative who envied it from the start. Inside, the suede lining is divided into three compartments. Outside, the buttery soft nappa lambskin has a flap-over strap with a lock and key closure and double adjustable braided handles. This bag is available at Saks Fifth Avenue and at $3080, it’s not only a wise investment it’s a worthy addition to your wardrobe.

posted: February 11th, 2011
category: Bottega Veneta Bags
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To know Bottega Veneta is to love their famed Intrec Knot Clutch, a dainty minaudiere sized just right for holding your night-out essentials in style. This particular version employs the label’s beloved woven leather in a vivacious teal. Right on top is the pièce de résistance – the glorious little knot closure that makes this clutch so immediately recognizable. Find it for $1220 at Barneys.

posted: January 14th, 2011
category: Bottega Veneta Bags
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You may remember a bag we reviewed back in November – the  Bottega Veneta Iridescent Nappa Beetle Clutch? Well, I found an accessory that shares the style and the name, minus the creepy crawly bug embellishment! Get all the beauty without any of the squeamishness from this lovely Bottega Veneta Beetle Iridescent Nappa Passport Case! It features the same striking iridescent coloring and delicately woven leather as the clutch, but utilizes stud detailing rather than insect detailing on the front flap. It also has a subtle metallic closure for security. Available at Bottega Veneta for $430.

posted: January 4th, 2011
category: Bottega Veneta Bags
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When I think of Bottega Veneta, I always picture the signature basketweave look that the majority of their bags have. Personally, that’s not my style, so I was pleasantly surprised to lay eyes on this Bottega Veneta Ottone Shoulder Sac. Sure, it’s fairly simple, but the detailing – which is woven, giving a nod to the BV style I’m used to – adds enough pizazz to give this purse a clean and modern look. Good stuff. Available for $1750 at Barneys New York.

posted: December 17th, 2010
category: Bottega Veneta Bags
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Let me get this out of the way – I absolutely love Bottega Veneta. It ranks right up there as one of my favorite labels. Its bags are iconic, and they need no introduction. That beautiful woven leather speaks for itself. The designs are flawless and timeless. The colors are exceptional. You get the picture. So let me tell you why I hate this Iridescent Nappa Beetle Clutch: it has a freaking beetle on the flap. I mean, is that necessary? Couldn’t they slap a little knot detail or something less…creepy on it? I’m not fond of bug embellishment, clearly, and I know that many women generally are not. Yet many high-end designers continue to release bags adorned with spiders and the like (I’m looking at you, Miu Miu). If you love it, it’s available for $1980 at Saks.com.

posted: November 9th, 2010
category: Bottega Veneta Bags
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The moment I laid eyes on this Bottega Veneta Large Woven Hobo, I wanted to make it mine. Then I saw the crazy price tag ($1,980), and I figured it was way too much for a basic bag. But the leather is crazy soft, the colors are gorgeous, and this isn’t a purse you’re going to toss after a season or two. What do you gals think? Is almost $2K too much to spend on a plain, basic hobo? Available at Saks Fifth Avenue for $1,980.

posted: October 14th, 2010
category: Bottega Veneta Bags
comments: 2 Comments