When Daniel Lee took over the reigns from Tomas Maier at Bottega Veneta, a whole new Bottega presented itself. The Bottega boom was heard around the fashion world. There was a lust for the brand that wasn’t felt as intensely before Lee joined the storied Italian house. And since his appointment, he has released hit after covetable hit, like The Pouch and The Padded Cassette. Lee’s bags seemed to strike the perfect balance of classic meets modern with craftsmanship and quality leather remaining at the forefront of his bags. Not to mention, Bottega’s iconic Intrecciato weave remained in the forefront.
Next up from Lee came the Jodie bag, which of course was an instant hit, beloved by celebs, influencers and our very own team as well. I myself have also lusted after, pinned for, and talked about some more the Jodie bag. It is a truly stunning bag and oozes that classic Bottega feel with an updated chic feel. It is an updated take on a classic Bottega bag, available in multiple sizes and colors and it remains at the top of my (accessible) wishlist.
The Bottega Veneta Padded Jodie
But if I’m being honest the bag I’m really dreaming about (if money were not an object) is the Bottega Veneta Padded Jodie. I recently saw this pillowy, padded mini that is part of the Jodie line and I can’t stop thinking about it. It’s crafted out of the same Intrecciato technique but features padded leather and a curved, almost half-moon-like shape. I am simply, obsessed.
I love that this bag looks so classic Bottega but with an updated, modern twist. The Padded Jodie isn’t seen as much as the classic, and its color offerings are minimal as well, making it a more under the radar choice. However the price point is much steaper than the Mini Jodie, coming in at $4,500 versus $1,900. Bottega’s quality and craftsmanship warrant its price tags, but the stark difference in this case leaves me a bit perplexed, as the sizing of both bags is similar.
Price aside, which one do you prefer?
I have always thought the Jodie to be a somewhat awkward bag. It is shaped IMO to be a shoulder bag but is too small. I like the craftsmanship and the saturated colors that are options. The padded Jodie has the same feel to me but I might like it a bit better, I would have to see one IRL.
Whew…with that price point I’m going to focus on getting the original Jodie. Beautiful bag. Does anyone remember when you used to get a matching pocket mirror when they got a Bottega bag? That’s also when the bags were $600. 🙂
I think the matching pocket mirror was there until Tomas Maier left. BTW, there are some Bottega items that are already made in China! LOL
Way to go Kering! LOL. You are really trying to maximize profit in lieu of tradition and craftsmanship and brand identity.
I’ve seen the Jodie bag in store and tried it a few times. The more I try it, the more I dislike it. It’s well-made. The leather is stunning. The green (which is my least favorite color) is beautiful. I just don’t find it to be functional. It’s a weird size. It’s as though it can’t decide if it wants to be a small bag, a mini bag, or a clutch.
Hi. I just bought a Bottega Veneta “Jodie” bag from A pre-loved site. I do NOT think this bag is Authentic. It smells like plastic and came in a cheesy Dust Bag that is silk but the lettering looks cheesy and there’s no Authenticity Code on the inside but paperwork from an envelope. The imprint logo is on the inside as well as the zipper. Please tell me this if this bag is real or not.