50 Years Later, Bottega Veneta's Signature Weave Remains Unmatched

Very few fashion brands can be identified specifically for their craftsmanship, as opposed to their logo. An emblem on a handbag's flap or an embroidered name on the front of a tank top are two common giveaways—signifiers that something is of designer quality. At Bottega Veneta, however, a 50-year-old technique for weaving some of the longest-lasting and most durable accessories in the industry replaces the role of both logo and brand name. The fashion house from Vicenza doesn't need to say a word to identify itself—people can spot its signature Intrecciato design from a mile away.

Bottega Veneta was founded by Michele Taddei and Renzo Zengiaro in 1966, with the duo opening their leather-goods workshop in the northeast Italian region of Veneto. Less than a decade later, they introduced the Intrecciato practice in 1975, forever changing fashion history. The technique, which is still used today, involved weaving leather strips called fettucce around a wooden mold. It was invented by the brand as a solution since sewing machines at the time could not stitch through the thick leather Bottega Veneta used in its designs, and resulted in softer silhouettes that were still made to last.

Lauren Hutton carrying a Bottega Veneta Intrecciato clutch in American Gigolo, 1980.

At Bottega Veneta, no matter who is at the helm—from Edward Buchanan, the brand's first-ever design director, and his successor, Tomas Maier, to Daniel Lee, Matthieu Blazy, and now, Louise Trotter—craftsmanship and handicraft remain a constant source of inspiration and the cornerstone of every collection. This year, 2025, marks the 50th anniversary of Intrecciato, as well as the start of a new era for the brand, with Trotter taking over as creative director. To honor the house's legacy, fellowBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing fashion editor Kristen Nichols and I took a few of the Intrecciato handbags dominating the fashion space right now, from the Andiamo to the Dustbag, out for a spin. See how we styled them and read our reviews below.

Eliza's review: I'm not only a huge fan of the Andiamo style in general, but also Bottega Veneta's Fondant color-way. I actually own the traditional Andiamo in the small size in this same deep-brown shade, and find it to be my most versatile handbag, especially because of its many handle options, from crossbody to top handle to shoulder bag. It gets so much use, in fact, that I've genuinely considered getting a second version, and when this East-West iteration debuted, I knew just the one I wanted. This longer, horizontal shape is beyond chic and instantly makes any outfit look more stylish and put-together. It has all kinds of compartments inside, so I never lose anything, and I love the option to hold it from below like a clutch. IYKYK.

Kristen's review: The Dustbag is a great convertible piece that can function as a shoulder bag when the strings are pulled tight and the leather loop is attached, but also changes shape to a flat clutch when the drawstrings are open. There's really no end to the possibilities with this piece—it's a true day-to-night bag that can change as your setting and plans do.

Eliza's review: This bag has been on my wishlist since I first laid eyes on it. In fact, I was seconds away from buying one in this Sea Salt color-way more than a year ago in Monaco. (Unfortunately, when I went back the next day to pay, the Monaco Grand Prix had caused my route to the boutique to close, so my plan was spoiled.) I've thought about it regularly ever since. I was never really a clutch person before this East-West top-handle arrived on the scene, always finding them useless for someone like me, who doesn't attend a ton of formal events. What I fell for with this style is how versatile it is. It can just as easily be styled for a bridal brunch as a casual day of errands, paired with a faded tee and vintage denim. Inside, there are a number of card slots, so you don't have to waste space on a wallet, and I easily fit all my many lip pencils, glosses, and blushes, as well as my iPhone (a Pro, I might add). One of my coworkers, Ana Escalante, actually bought this for her upcoming wedding, a genius move, I must say.

Kristen's review: One specific bag has been topping my wishlist since its release: the Bottega Veneta Andiamo tote. It's finished in BV's iconic Intrecciato woven leather and signature knotted hardware. With a top handle as well as a longer strap, the design makes it versatile to hold by hand or slung over the shoulder. It's the perfect size and shape for an everyday bag to take around NYC, whether headed to the office or running around on the weekend. But don't take my word for it—it's also aBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing editor favorite, and multiple people on our team have invested in it.

Shop more Bottega Veneta Intrecciato pieces: