Bottega Veneta Handbags

Bottega Veneta Ruched Shoulder Bag

Today is a very late start after a morning filled with appointments. I went on my way to the appointments and everything was the exact same as usual, except one added little touch. Only valet parking at the Doctor’s office. It seems like a simple difference, well because it is, but it added that slight bit of extra luxury. Parking at this one Doctor’s office was like finding a specific shell in the ocean. Spaces were limited and beyond small and everyone was hunting people down in the lot. Believe it or not there is literally no where else to park. Nada, zip, zilch. So this added perk really made my day. And this is the precise thing Bottega Veneta has done with their Bottega Veneta Ruched Shoulder Bag which is updated with a slightly gathered middle. Everything else is the exact same as the iconic Bottega Veneta Veneta Bag; simple design, classic shape, buttery soft leather. But the middle ruching adds the perfect pizazz. There is something about this added dimension, on top of the woven leather, that really makes the bag stand out. The midnight blue leather is a stunning option for fall and winter, but easily works for summer (think of it like blue jeans, seasonless for the most part). The inside is lined with taupe suede and there is a zip top. Simple and elegant, just like Bottega Veneta likes it! Buy through Net A Porter for $1,950.

My new obsession has still not arrived, and while I have not told you all exactly what it is I will tell you that the guesses about it being a Bottega Veneta handbag aren’t correct. The thing is that I have indeed loved the knot box clutches from Bottega Veneta, especially the croc version. For fall a material that you will see often is satin. Now satin is a material that I love in linings of bags, but I do not always love it on clothing (way too clingy on the average woman) and bags. But in the instance of the Bottega Veneta Satin Knot Clutch I find the sleek lilac satin woven into perfection to be stunning. This is nothing new or mind-blowing, but it is a classic purse from the luxury house. The reason that I have not amassed a large knot clutch collection is because I am not attending event after event where this could be used. Sure, I go to some events and to nice dinners, but have not delved into it fully. Once I do nab one of the Bottega Box Clutches it may be the longer version coming this fall. Of course the inside of this clutch is lined with satin and there is a clasp knot fastening at the top. Buy through Net A Porter for $1,100.

Bottega Veneta Satin Box Clutch

I have been obsessed with the elegance of the Bottega Veneta Box Clutches from day one, also known as the knot clutch. In fact, so in love with them that I am astonished that I do not have one in my collection yet. Actually, I take that back. I have been waiting to take the plunge for one of the crocodile versions, just not sure what color. These clutches are favorites among Bottega Veneta handbag lovers, as the shape is simple yet stunning and the clutch can be seen out at dinner or on the red carpet. And while the crocodile versions will push upwards of $3,000, the Bottega Veneta Satin Box Clutch is a dressy option for a more affordable price. This bag combines simplicity, beauty, and usability all at once. The clutch is large enough to carry the essentials and small enough to grace your hand without appearing too large. The inside is lined in tonal suede and the clutch is finished off with the signature knot clasp. Buy the camel version through Net A Porter for $1,100 and the black version through Net A Porter for $1,100.

Bottega Veneta Butterfly Clutch

Yesterday was Vlad’s birthday and we celebrated with an amazing steak dinner and a trip down to the Homestead Speedway Race Track, where I gave him his present, professional driving lessons. Now you have to understand Vlad is an avid car man, a guy who obsesses over engines, horsepower, carbon fiber, etc. Me? I like how cars look, but as he has taught me more I have in turn began to learn much more about cars. Any sports car driving down the road can be identified and approximate price and horsepower can be given by me now. But it is not just me learning about cars and Vlad not learning about what I love. Really, how do you think this website got started? As Vlad saw my love for handbags he helped me started this site and is still a very integral part of the website. He can identify bags and even will tell me if something is fake! I love it! So yesterday at dinner we overheard the women at the table behind us speaking about their new bag obsession and if the handbag they love is worth the price. They were speaking about Bottega Veneta, and if I did not find it rude to interrupt their lunch, I would have popped over and told them Bottega Veneta is a timeless investment. But I think there is a great way to break into a brand if you are a little wary; go with clutches and accessories. If a brand meticulously makes their small leather goods, you can be assured their larger leather goods will be of amazing quality also.

Last week I told you about the Bottega Veneta Butterfly Bag, and the response was split down the middle. I personally like the bag, but I will not buy it, it is a bit too much for me. But I found the perfect consolation prize, the Bottega Veneta Butterfly Clutch which is designed with ecru woven leather and butterfly detailing on the back. This fold over clutch from Bottega Veneta is one of their house favorites, being sold in various sizes and colors (we had tremendous responses with the Pink Bottega Veneta Clutch giveaway). This clutch is ideal for someone who loves the butterfly print but is not totally in love with it enough to want it all over their larger tote. The print is on the back of the clutch, so it does not need to be seen at all times, but adds a fun touch. There is a magnetic fastening for the flap closure and blue suede lining. Buy through Net A Porter for $770.

Bottega Veneta Butterfly Bag

I told you earlier I am slow moving today and the slothness continues. It is not like the weather is helping; while we are not snowed in it is dreary and rain is imminent. Really the only thing on my mind is eating another brownie (ok row of brownies) and going back to bed. But as I sat here looking out the window on this dull day, there was a spark of life. One single butterfly flew by my window and landed on the leaves of the bush in front of my window. It was that little sign, that little ‘the world is beautiful’, that is keeping me awake and feeling refreshed. There is something so whimsical about butterflies that shows the miracles of life. And from a company as established and elegant as Bottega Veneta, it was a brilliant idea to tap into the butterfly print with the Bottega Veneta Butterfly Bag. Designed with putty intrecciato leather, there are butterfly print design in patches on the front. The drawstring braided handle is reminiscent of spring and summer as it is threaded through brass eyelets. I am almost as obsessed with what is inside as what is outside of the bag; the blue suede lining. I was reminded of the Neiman Marcus Anniversary Judith Leiber clutch when I saw this bag, but this is better. Bottega Veneta never ceases to amaze me. $2,820 through Net A Porter.

Bottega Veneta Veneta Bags

When most people think of Bottega Veneta and the signature bag, they think of the Veneta. And when those people are thinking about the signature style, they think of the intrecciato woven leather. These are both aspects of Bottega Veneta that define the brand. Bottega Veneta bags are not cheap either. In fact, you can not even find an ‘affordable’ bag in their store, and when you think you have, you are actually just fooling yourself into believing you have. The truth is, you pay for what you get. You are getting a luxury design house and a luxurious leather bag. The leather used on their bags is absolutely divine. The detail is on point. Even many employees of Hermes consider Bottega one of the only other brands in their league. If you have seen and touched a Hermes bag and a Bottega Veneta bag in person, you will know why. These are reasons that I have fallen for the brand. I adore their styles, the simplicity, the elegance, the timelessness. And for the perfect piece that will never go out of style, look into the Bottega Veneta Veneta Bags. There are various sizes of this style, but the shape is the same. The woven leather bag features a strap across the top and a zip fastening closure. The inside is lined in lush suede and there is a zip pocket. The beauty of these bags and the lush leather is mouth watering. Net A Porter is carrying the extra large version in chocolate for $2,420 and a yellow option for $1850.

Bottega Veneta Barcelona Cabat

I learned about the ultimate Bottega Veneta Bag, the Cabat, while in Venice, Italy. Between the bag being entirely hand woven inside and out, the four layers, and the small amount of artisans that have the weaving skill to finish this bag, the Cabat is well worth its hefty price tag. For spring/summer season, there is a new rendition of the Cabat, the Bottega Veneta Barcelona Cabat which features Platino Ossidato leather (a brown and bronze combination) on the large frame (17.6 x 7.8 x 12.9 IN). There are only 500 pieces of this version being made, and like the other Cabat’s each piece features an inside pouch numbered plaque. I have had a huge crush on this bag since I first laid eyes on it. I would even venture to say that it rivals a great Hermes Travel Bag. The problem is the price also rivals a Hermes Bag, and at $7250, it is just not as accessible to many. Pre-order through Bottega Veneta for $7250. Also shop Bottega Veneta through Saks and Net-A-Porter.

Pinch yourself again, because this is indeed a handbag from the house of most-of-the-time elegant and toned-down Bottega Veneta. Their spring/summer 2008 bags involve huge splashes of color, funky combinations, and patent metallics!? Yes, they have entered the realm of glossy patent (or as they like to call it ‘liquid stripes’). Sure, it may not exactly be metallic, but the patent gives off such a sheen that the handbag appears to be reflecting a ton of light, which in my eyes makes this a toned down metallic in its own way. Not only did they do this with their handbags, but they did this with the color red. Bright red, not rouge. And even worse, they did it on a handbag that is totally drab, the Bottega Veneta Oversized Intrecciato Tote. This tote features a very beach looking braided handle, that will dig into your shoulder with each wear and force the body of the handbag to flatten out and dull down. But then, under your arm, the bag will refuse to be dull, as it shines and gleams with its bright red and liquid stripes. And then there is the other beach effect, the brass eyelets that the handles are looped through at the top. Again, making the bag hang funny and pull at your arm and shoulder. I’d expect this from a canvas beach bag, or just a cheap bag that can be used at the beach. But nothing from the house of Bottega is cheap, and this handbag is a whopping $2,680 at Net A Porter. I don’t have the heart to label this a fug bag, but I can say that I truly am not liking it.

If you are ever questioning the timeless bag from the house of Bottega Veneta, the answer is the Veneta. The shape is perfect, as it slouches under your arm, the leather showcases what Bottega Veneta is known for- their intricate intrecciato weave, and the touch is soft and supple. The style is simple; featuring a single strap across the top, an internal zip fastening pocket, and beige suede lining, yet alluring. The color choice is where you can have a little fun. While Bottega releases many colors that are calming and easy to wear everyday, they also are known to add a splash of color to spice things up. The Bottega Veneta Shoulder Bag is released in yellow leather for spring and summer, which is the perfect splash of a bright and happy color. I adore the outfit Net-A-Porter shows the model wearing; including this bag, a Bottega Veneta Silk Dress, and a matching Bottega Veneta Leather Belt. The matching of the bag and belt really brings everything together without looking too matchy matchy. Buy the bag via Net A Porter for $1850 (also dress is on sale for $936 and buy the belt for $490 both at NAP).

Image via About.com

While we were in New York, Vlad and I made it a priority to stop into the Bottega Veneta store, which is their flagship. The store is huge, and beautiful (and undergoing renovations). We were greeted by a great SA who showed us and informed us about so many meticulous details of Bottega items. With many luxury houses losing their luster, Bottega Veneta is one of the few luxury houses that has retained their luxury. The weave is perfected at the house of Bottega, and many do not realize the degree of perfection they implement with their exotics. If you are looking for alligator, Bottega uses a specific gator from Madagascar that leaves a raise after each scale. The raise gives the bag a stunning dimension, as the dye darkens around the raised edges to really make the exotic skin pop. And there is another process to treating their alligator; involving soaking the skin (belly only) in water, then having the artisan hand treat the skin by pounding it out and then hand brushing each scale. The result is divine, which leaves the exotic skin feeling as if it is suede. You have to touch it to believe it, because it seems unreal. And then there are their python skins, lizard skins, ostrich, and of course the divine weave that they implement. So if you are looking for an exotic, the house of Bottega may be perfect for you. Make sure to stop by your local boutique to feel and indulge in the perfection of their processes.

And while I wished to leave with a piece of exotic perfection, I had a different bag in mind. So I settled with the stunning Bottega Veneta Ballet Flats in Carmino ($570 at Saks).

Below is a compilation of exotic (and intricate woven leather) items Bottega Veneta offers. Check them out if you are looking for utmost luxury and attention to detail!

Check out a beautiful array of Bottega Veneta handbags and shoes below!