Matthieu Blazy–a designer who had been well known within the fashion industry, but unheard of outside of it–is finally getting the recognition he deserves. One to typically shy away from the spotlight, Blazy presented his debut collection for Bottega Veneta for the autumn/winter 2022 season, making an entrance that was nothing short of spectacular.
Since his appointment, Blazy’s main focus has been to reestablish the core values of Bottega Veneta–retaining what is necessary and central to the brand, while preserving contemporary relevance. The result? A deceptively simple and confident 70-look show replete with rich details and an emphasis on exceptional craftsmanship and quality.
The collection proposed a diverse and more importantly, wearable wardrobe, articulated with the nonchalant, unassuming elegance one would associate with Bottega Veneta. Setting the tone with the opening look, a white tank top and a pair of jeans (what could be more essential than that?), his debut featured a range of tailored, utilitarian separates juxtaposed with extravagant, yet elusive accents, before closing with more glamorous diaphanous lace and sequined dresses. Outerwear options were cut to look like typical pea coats from the front, only to reveal a bold convex silhouette in the back when seen in profile; trousers were hemmed to be longer in the front and shorter in the back, giving the illusion of constant movement even in moments of inaction; shoes were often sculptural, some featuring curved heels and others, towering platforms with statement silver buckles.
Elements of artisanal craft were incorporated into almost every look. At its most obvious, it was observed in the brand’s signature intreccio woven shoes and bags, and Blazy’s more organic interpretation by way of the Kalimero bag; each crafted without any seams to ensure that every piece is unique and cannot be replicated. And in its subtlest expressions, oversized business shirts and the jeans in the opening look were fabricated unexpectedly in nubuck, innovatively treated and manipulated to mimic the lightness of cotton–a detail likely to escape the naked eye, but would be understood only by the wearer.
Blazy’s Bottega Veneta speaks volumes without relying on loud statements, perpetuating a sensual experience of luxury that is personal and felt as opposed to seen. For those eager to buy into the collection but spoilt for choice, here is where we come in. In another installment of Vogue 10, Vogue Singapore has collaborated with Bottega Veneta to create an edit of must-have items to snag from the brand’s autumn/winter 2022 collection. Curated by fashion director Desmond Lim and featuring exclusive styling tips, here are his top 10 highlights to shop now:
1 / 10
Shirt, $2,200
“A basic cotton shirt is a versatile wardrobe staple that every woman should own,” declares Lim. “Cut to be oversized with an elongated hemline, this beautiful shirt sports an interesting cocoon shaped back, and can be worn as a mini dress, or paired with a pair of jeans for a casual, yet elevated look”
Styling tip: “Opt for a stacked platform shoe to balance out the proportion of this shirt and the back detail, while still remaining on trend.”
2 / 10
Jeans, $1,190
“Nothing beats a good pair of denim jeans,” states Lim. “This season, the perennial wardrobe stalwart has been updated with a flattering straight cut, which will elongate your legs. How can anyone say no to that?”
Styling tip: “Wear these jeans with a chunky boot or a pair of pumps to nail an enviable nonchalance while still looking put together.”
3 / 10
Earrings, $1,560
“These teardrop earrings will add drama to any look, and will instantly frame your face,” asserts Lim. “It’s an essential accessory that will complete your outfit.”
Styling tip: “Incorporating bold, yet simple accessories like these earrings are a great way to update your everyday work wardrobe and still look professional.”
4 / 10
Mini Kalimero bucket bag, $8,210
“Blazy’s organic and sinuous reinterpretation of the intreccio weave is a true testament to the artisanal craftsmanship of Bottega Veneta,” reinforces Lim. “Each bag is constructed without any seams, and is as such, entirely unique–no two bags are the same. This is true luxury.”
Styling tip: “A slinky knit top would make for an interesting and flattering clash of textures when styled with this bag.”
5 / 10
Brick Cassette bag, $3,820
“The now iconic and instantly recognisable Cassette bag gets a refresh as a shoulder bag!” enthuses Lim. “Great size and beautiful colour–what more could you ask for?”
Styling tip: “Pair this camel coloured Brick Cassette bag with monochromatic separates for an enduring, modern look.”
6 / 10
Skirt, $1,990
“Blazy’s take on a flounced, midi skirt was one of the highlights of his debut collection. While the runway pieces were constructed out of leather, the cotton version of this style makes for a more sensible option for Singapore’s hot, tropical climate. The butter yellow colour is bound to turn heads too,” says Lim.
Styling tip: “Pair this skirt with a basic white tank top–the must-have item of the autumn/winter 2022 season–or an ice blue chambray shirt for a modern interpretation of a classic, feminine silhouette.”
7 / 10
Knot minaudiere on strap, $6,400
“The knot clutch gets an interesting update this season with an accompanying strap, turning a staple evening bag design into an elegant everyday option for all ages. This is the perfect bag that would suit mothers and daughters who regularly dip into each other’s closets,” suggests Lim.
Styling tip: “A matching twin set for mom, and a turtleneck with roomy cargo pants for the daughter.”
8 / 10
Leather coat, $10,570
“Bottega Veneta’s curved back coats were one of the most memorable and covetable items from the autumn/winter 2022 collections, and a piece that many will remember Blazy’s first collection for the house by,” muses Lim. “Make an even bolder statement with this cherry red iteration, which can be styled in multiple ways, and will look great even on shorter individuals.”
Styling tip: “Consider pairing this coat with a pleated mini skirt, sheer tights and pumps for a contemporary take on a mod look. Don’t forget to accessorize with a pair of black, round-rimmed sunglasses to complete this outfit.”
9 / 10
Ring, $830
“A statement ring is an easy trick to elevate even the most casual outfit,” says Lim. “This sleek and sculptural option from Bottega Veneta is a timeless piece that can be passed on from generation to generation without losing its contemporary edge.”
Styling tip: “When it comes to statement jewellery, less is more.”
10 / 10
Pyramid pouch, $1,570
“My latest obsession? An unconventionally shaped bag,” confesses Lim. “On top of being a surprisingly versatile style that would complement any outfit, the cute, eye-catching, and very on-brand shape makes for a good conversation starter too.”
Styling tip: “Whether worn with a simple white minidress, or a boxy grey suit, your options are unlimited with this attention grabbing pyramid shaped bag. It would even look chic as a replacement for the traditional minaudiere for evening looks.”
