Follow the Fabrics! ... Bottega Veneta SS2014

Ever since Tomas Maier took the helm of Bottega Veneta’s creative direction, the brand has transcended above woven leather bags, buttery soft shoes and diverse accoutrements. Not to forget the famous Knot clutches, which I believe, are currently residing in every discerning fashionista’s closet.

It has somehow evolved into a name – or a phrase within the fashion lexicon – synonymous with unparalleled Italian elegance, élan and sumptuous lifestyle. 

It is a brand that no one could ever say ‘no’ to, especially when it comes to the spacious intreciatto totes in exotic skins such as crocodile and python. The same goes to its ready-to-wear collections, which season after season have been receiving positive and rave reviews by both editors and fashionistas alike.

It is easy to see why Maier’s ready-to-wear offerings often hit the high notes among the ladies who dress: The pieces are made as practical and effortless as possible. 

Nevertheless, the 2014 spring/summer collection is apparently peppered with adequate dash of sublime artistry. 

Artistry, in this context, refers to the liberal application of refined pleating and origami folding (as seen on the large fabric blooms).

“The collection is about freshness, both in terms of material and technique,” says Creative Director Tomas Maier. “I was interested in allowing the fabric to take the lead, serving as a guide to the possibilities of what we would be able to achieve.”

Palette-wise, the hues are muted and serious – a stark contrast to the traditional spring/summer palettes that are often made of bright, fun and clamouring colours (I guess I don’t have to list it down). There were no sign of prints, either. 

But never judge a collection by the working palette as the meticulous detailing such as fan pleat on a shift dress and multi-tiered ruffles in various lengths and tones attached to an above-the-knee skirt, evening confections doused in compelling textures and multi-dimensional effects are the ultimate fun factors. Even the plethora of materials with diverse textures used flow perfectly with the artistic treatment given on the looks.

Speaking of materials, the upcoming spring/summer 2014 season will see Bottega Veneta introducing a fabric created by the brand that is woven of nearly equal parts of cotton and copper thread, hence resulting in material with a particular look and feel.

In the accessories and shoes department, the sling backs are loosely woven with pointed square off-tips while array of top-handled frame bags in various permutations – think lizards, shiny Madras, cotton tweed and the inevitable crocodile – provide structural contrast to the relaxed drapes of the season. Completing the looks are architectural and organic necklaces, brooches, belts and bracelets.

Bottega Veneta’s spring/summer 2014 ready-to-wear and accessories collection will be available at Bottega Veneta stores and select departmental stores early next year.

*Photos by Style.com

Bottega Veneta - 2.30.00, Level 2, 168 Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur.