Bottega Veneta’s Bags Take a Dark Turn for Spring 2014

If you're in the mood for a fun, exuberant, spring-like bag collection, Bottega Veneta Spring 2014 is simply not for you. On the other hand, if you'd like something slightly dour and vaguely Japanese (in the bags, at least - there was no vagueness in the clothes), well, step right up and take a look. There's enough grey for everybody, even if you weren't really looking for any.

The collection goes beyond grey, of course, but it's an incredibly muted group of bags on the whole, even by somewhat conservative Bottega Veneta standards. The most vibrant bright you'll find among these bags are a few pieces in brick red, but then it's back to more leather, python, lizard, crocodile and tweed in desaturated neutrals. The simple, sumptuous duffel styles were easily the best bets, while the tweedy frame top handles left me wondering who actually buys those bags. I have yet to entirely puzzle that one out. Check out the collection below.

[Images via Vogue.com]