When Daniel Lee took over the reins at Bottega Veneta in late 2018, he stormed the fashion world. Parent company Kering aimed to modernize and modernize they did, introducing a whole new aesthetic while still keeping true to its core brand heritage and DNA. It seemed that everything Lee touched turned to gold, and each new silhouette brought a fresh set of fans to the brand. I have become one of those fans, finally dipping my toes into the Bottega Veneta pond with the purchase of my very first BV: the Bottega Veneta Mini Jodie in Ice Cream.
Aesthetics
I have to be honest: until Lee’s appointment at Bottega Veneta, I was not a big fan of the brand. It wasn’t that I didn’t like the bags or appreciate the brand’s heritage and craftsmanship, but the silhouettes felt very mature to me and simply did not match with my style. But seeing #NewBottega bags was like seeing Bottega Veneta with a fresh set of eyes, and I was very intrigued. I began paying closer attention to the brand as a whole, and while the Pouch never appealed to me when I first saw the brand’s Mini Jodie Bag, I immediately raised an eyebrow. I found myself wanting the bag more and more but was torn between it and the Cassette Bag. Ultimately, I couldn’t get the Jodie Bag’s tiny size, knotted top handle, and Intrecciato leather out of my head.
The Jodie is the perfect example of Daniel Lee’s Bottega. It embodies everything that #NewBottega is: stylish and modern yet classic and timeless at the same time. There is nothing not to love, and though the bag became a no-brainer, choosing a color was the most difficult part. I knew I wanted something other than a neutral like black or beige, and although I was obsessed with the purple and the green I also wanted a color that would get the most use. I didn’t notice this pale yellow, called Ice Cream, until the last minute, but I was hooked as soon as I saw it. I loved that it’s more muted and can act like a neutral while still adding a bit of fun.
Usability + Functionality
I’ve been using this bag almost non-stop since it arrived, and if you follow me on Instagram you’ve probably seen it in action. It’s already been cross-country, tagging along on my trip to LA, on the subway, to the grocery store, and beyond. I’ve gotten a pretty good feel for it, and I have a lot to say about this bag’s functionality. For all that it makes up for in style, it lacks in usability. There I said it. The zipper can be a little finicky, and getting in and out of this bag on the go is rather difficult. Trying to access my keys while holding an iced coffee in one hand and my dog’s leash in the other resulted in a near disaster, but I digress.
In terms of size, this bag is mini, as its name states, but I find the size to be just fine for my needs. It holds a phone, card case, sunglasses in a microfiber pouch, lip balm, keys, and a face compact. Its overall dimensions are 9″ L x 11″ W x 3.1″ D, and it has only one main compartment with no interior pockets. It’s ideal for dinner dates and nights out, or even a stroll through the neighborhood when you don’t need to bring much with you. But if you’re juggling other bags in your hand (or children or pets), the Mini Jodie is best left at home. However, with all of that being said, I’m still quite pleased with my purchase. Every bag serves a purpose, and I didn’t purchase this expecting it to be my most used (or most functional) bag.
Quality + Construction
It wouldn’t be a proper Purseonals review if we didn’t talk construction, though it nearly goes without saying that Bottega’s quality is truly top-notch. The leather is buttery and soft, with a smell that is just divine. The bag is made in Italy of 50% Lambskin and 50% Calfskin. It feels luscious but not overly dainty or delicate, and though it’s also lined in 100% calfskin leather, it isn’t heavy or cumbersome. The bag’s woven Intrecciato technique is a brand signature and has been for decades, meaning it has been perfected time and time again. Once you experience the impeccable quality and superb craftsmanship, you’ll be a BV convert too.
Price + Value
The Mini Jodie retails for $1,900, which sounds like a pretty hefty chunk of change for a small handbag but let’s break it down further.
First of all, Intrecciato, a brand signifier, is made from small strips of leather pieced and woven together to make each handbag. The technique is impressive, and it warrants its price tag. Additionally, given that the bag is entirely made from (and lined in) leather, its price tag should be expected. It still retails under $2K, which is not a lot in bag language in this day and age. There are bags made of other materials that cost just as much, so $1,900 is a price I would be more than willing to pay for a Bottega Veneta bag. This bag is worth the price because it can easily be dressed up for a night out or dressed down for daytime. It works just as well with a nice dress and heels for a wedding as it does with sneakers and joggers.
Staying Power
Some may argue that mini bags won’t be here forever, but I’d say they’re wrong. Mini bags have proven season after season that they are more than just a passing trend, remaining an integral part of every designer’s lineup. Additionally, the Bottega Veneta Mini Jodie is crafted from the brand’s iconic and unmistakable Intrecciato leather. This technique has been beloved and relevant for decades and will remain that way for decades more. Lee has proven that his version of Bottega Veneta is here to stay, and I think the Jodie is too.
Overall Rating
Overall I’m delighted with my Mini Jodie, and I would 100% purchase it again or recommend it to a friend who is new to BV like me. I now understand why so many people have come back to add a second hue to their collection; it’s just that good! The Mini Jodie is incredibly stylish and easy to wear. It looks cool with most outfits, even a simple sneaker and jeans look. It’s classic yet contemporary, casual, and cool, making it a must in every bag lover’s closet.
Pricing and Availability
Certain colors are seasonal and limited, and the color I chose, Ice Cream, appears to be one of them. It has already disappeared from Bottega’s website, but the Mini Jodie in Ice Cream is still available for $1,900 via Luisaviaroma. Snag this sweet shade before it’s too late!
