I never quite know what to do with this particular shade of blue, although they call it "midnight blue" to me it's more of a grey periwinkle that may be pretty but is also picky (as far as what it will coordinate with). But regardless this Bottega Veneta Intrecciato Shoulder Bag is especially nice in a soft and slouchy shape that features the intrecciato style and some large ruching detail up the middle. It also has a lush (albeit a little hot for summer) suede lining in taupe, and a zip-top closure. $1,950
Gorgeous and sleek but not too simple, the Bottega Veneta Satin Box Clutch is a pretty pastel lilac with a stylish basket weave pattern and a delicate sheen that make for a quiet statement of glamor. Features include a rigid curved-edge frame with tonal leather trim and a decorative golden knot on the top. Clasp closure, satin lining, and unfortunately no shoulder strap (I wish it had a golden chain with the option to tuck it inside). Perfect for an elegant summer party but is also the perfect clutch for wearing with your fave black dress anytime of year. $1,100
Italian fashion house Bottega Veneta is famous for its signature collection of hand woven leather goods, the simple clean lines make them some of the most in demand bags season after season. The newest addition to the Intrecciato line, is the over sized tote. Perfect for the beach or an over night get away, this bold summer bag makes a splash with its red patent leather body and brass detailing. A peek inside shows soft camel suede lining and a pocket that zips shut. Bottegas never come cheap, this being no exception, retail price is $2,680! A worthwhile splurge, it will last you for decades.
As my colleague Deidre Woollard noted the other day, Istanbul has become something of a hotspot for foriegn brands. In addition to the Christian Dior boutique she wrote about, Marc Jacobs, Chloé, Bottega Veneta and Jimmy Choo have all recently opened shops in the Besiktas district, aka the SoHo of Istanbul. The centerpiece of the neighborhood is undoubtedly Starwood's new W Istanbul (which she mentioned as well). This is the first European outpost for W, the fastest growing luxury hotel brand in the world with 22 properties and 18 more in development. Here's a tour of the hip new hotel which W constructed out of a row of beautiful 1870s townhouses. The W Istanbul features 134 luxurious guest rooms including 26 suites -- many with their own private gardens, terraces and cabanas -- a branch of chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten's New York hotspot Spice Market, a sexy Sip Lounge bar, and a signature spa. It also boasts spectacular views of the Bosphorus, the renowned waterway between the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara.
I may switch out purses fairly often but my laptop bag has been the same for almost a year now -- needless to say I go for less "trend" and more "classic" when shopping for ways to tote my computer. The Bottega Veneta Intrecciato Laptop Bag is simple, classic, smooth. Leather in rich chocolate brown with woven sides, double zip closure, a cotton lining, and a detachable shoulder strap make this bag seasonless and more than able to stand the test of time for years to come -- both in quality and style. $2350
Bottega Veneta has been making exclusive high quality couture since the early 1960's. After merging with Gucci a few years ago I have noticed their designs appeal to a younger crowd and seem to be getting more stylish with each passing season. These new python sandals are perhaps their most popular shoe to date and are available exclusively to those willing to pre- order and join the waiting list. With a four inch heel, gold hardware and python straps these sandals aren't cheap, they retail for $1,170 and based on their popularity nobody seems to mind!
If you appreciate subtlety in your handbag, you will probably like this tote with just a hint of butterfly pattern in the weave. Creamy nappa leather is delicately embossed with barely-there butterflies. Cinched with a 3" drop braided drawstring closure, the bag opens to pretty blue suede lining and a single pocket. Measuring 18"W x 15"H x 2"D, the Italian made bag is available for Spring pre-order at Saks for $2,820.
Woven leather in a mossy green creates a beautiful canvas for the pretty swirls that accent this feminine tote. With delicate gold tone hardware and graceful scalloped edges, the bag almost looks vintage. With slim handles and protective feet, this is a gorgeous bag that would add a bit of old style class to your wardrobe. Measuring 15" wide by x9" high by 4" deep, the Cornely tote sells for $3,300.
The description for this Bottega Veneta Limited Edition Leather Bag says that it is made with mouse leather, complemented by kaurung paneling on the sides. Mouse leather is not something we come across often - if at all - and unless they are strictly referring to the soft, mousy gray color of the purse, it explains why the bag is limited edition. The handbag also features intricately woven swirls made with kaurung over a large portion of the body of the bag. The full number of pieces included in the limited edition run of this design was not disclosed. Price: $3,980.
Possibly the tiniest functional purse I've see, this Mini Purse Key Ring from Bottega Veneta is worthy of Cute Overload. Attached to a 9-inch chain, the little purse is about 2" high and made of soft, supple leather. It has a tiny clasp at the top, opening the bag to slip in a few well-folded bills or a couple of coins, and comes in both white and green. The chain also has a keyring and a belt hook, making it easy to attach and carry around with you. Price: $200.
The Sardegna Adjustable Bag is from Bottega Veneta's spring line and, with its bright near-fuchsia coloring, few would mistake it for a winter purse. The body of the tote is canvas, a practical choice for a purse that could end up down by the beach, but the thick, double-braided handles are made of soft, smooth leather. The top of the tote has no closure, but there are magnetic snaps at either end of the bag to allow it to expand, if necessary. It measures 12"H x 19"L x 6"W. Price: $720.
Bottega Veneta bags do one thing (woven leather) and do it so exquisitely that you need never want for anything more. Their Resort 2006 collection however adds a little fillip to the the traditional style. The Catena bag is white woven leather but with a meandering design roaming all over the bag. It has a zip closure, interior zip pocket, cell phone compartment and a luxe suede interior. The bag is on pre-order now and sells for $1200.
Everything about this elegant Woven Double Handle Tote from Bottega Veneta is classic. It has an all-over woven pattern in chocolate leather, accented with gold hardware and a wraparound strap at the top that cinches the bag, shaping it. The two-handles, made from thick woven leather, have an ample drop that allows the bag to be carried on the shoulder or in hand, and the wide reinforced base makes this a perfect choice for a daily carry-all. The bag has an open top with a hidden magnetic snap and a suede lining. Price: $2,690.
Bottega Veneta has recently introduced an iPod Nano case as part of its fall accessories line. It is great that more designers are taking note of the fact that people have more to carry than just a wallet or a cell phone these days, and this case is a perfect example of how to carry the delicate music player with style. The supple leather case comes in multiple colors, including the burnt orange shown here, and has a removable strap that can be used at need, if you prefer to loop you player around your neck than tuck it into a purse or carry it in-hand. Price: $390.
For those that like Bottega
Veneta handbags but are tired of the complete woven leather look, say hello to Cervo Cocker. Made of incredibly soft
leather, the woven detailing is minimal, yet it still makes a strong statement. The braided handles and two exterior
side pockets accent the bag's shape and overall classic and rich look. It also features a magnetic top closure, an
interior zippered pocket, and suede lining. Also available in navy - but not until April 2006. Price:
$1780.