When you love fashion, you tend to fall into one of two categories: you're either a shoe person or a bag person (with a few outliers who take on both as their specialist subjects). For me, it's handbags. Big, small, top-handle, clutch—I'm infatuated with this particular accessory. In every outfit I see someone wear, my eyes immediately go to the bag, and upon a recent scroll through some celebrity outfits I'd saved, I noticed something: so many of them included handbags by the same brand.
Most designers will dream of creating a cult piece that becomes so iconic it is reissued time and again; Gucci's Jackie, Dior's Lady Dior or Chanel's Classic Flap Bag are easy examples, but few will make one handbag that truly leaves its mark on fashion history. Fewer still enjoy the success, repertoire and celebrity loyalty of Bottega Veneta.
So what does it take to create an It bag? It's a rare harmony of design, quality—and most importantly—recognition. That's not to say that there aren't classic tote bags on my dream wish list that would most definitely be a smart investment. But a real standout piece needs distinction. To reach cult status, the bag should be recognisable from a mile off. Some rely on shape, like Loewe's origami-inspired Puzzle bag, whilst others depend on their logo—everyone knows Chanel's double C emblem when they see it.
But for Bottega Veneta, it's different. The brand's bags are distinct without logos or branding emblazoned. Instead, their recognition largely comes from the intricately woven intrecciato leather that has become embedded in the Bottega brand since its inception in the 1960s, putting the exquisite craftspersonship of each creation at the centre of each of its It bags. Yes, that's It bags, plural.
To create a legacy of handbags, Bottega focuses on key elements like signature fabric, distinct silhouettes and the timeless appeal of each creation. New styles aren't simply launched for the sake of newness, but to cover the practicalities of a handbag collection. There's the Arco tote for those who like to carry a little more, whilst the Jodie acts as an easy everyday piece in a flurry of different shades, and the recently added Andiamo, which can transform from handheld to shoulder bag with the adjustable strap.
Bottega Veneta's Pouch is a day-to-night piece that practically revitalised clutch bags for the modern day, whilst the Sardine has a more playful edge with its sleek metal handle, though it still encapsulates the hushed-luxury feel of the rest of the line-up. Plus, each is available in a range of sizes and colours to ensure these treasured bags stay true to the wearer's personal preferences. In short, if you're looking to invest in a forever handbag, you truly can't go wrong with Bottega Veneta.
Keep scrolling to explore the Bottega Veneta bags that come celebrity-approved.
Celebrities Who Love Bottega Veneta Bags Just as Much as We Do
1. Elsa Hosk with the Bottega Veneta Jodie
On Elsa Hosk: Bottega Veneta Jodie Mini Leather Tote Bag (£1970)
Style Notes: Staring with one of the most frequently spotted bags: the Jodie. Identifiable by its half-moon shape and knot-handle detail, the Jodie serves as the ideal everyday companion thanks to its relaxed shape and how easy it is to carry on the shoulder, in the hand or as a clutch.
SHOP THE JODIE:
Elsa Hosk makes a case for how luxurious a white bag can be.
This style comes in five size variations.
Black is always a classic.
2. Rosie Huntington-Whiteley with the Bottega Veneta Arco
On Rosie Huntington-Whiteley: Bottega Veneta Suede Arco Tote Bag
Style Notes: The Arco offers a more structured tote style that is endlessly chic and eternally "in". The woven leather has been enlarged for a more defined shape than the more languid bags.
SHOP THE ARCO:
From the tie-closure to the insert pockets, this bag has so many clever details.
Take note of the sleek suede interior.
The hard part is choosing which colour to go for.
3. Jasmine Tookes with the Bottega Veneta Pouch
On Jasmine Tookes: Bottega Veneta Pouch Large Leather Clutch Bag (£2600)
Style Notes: Inspired by one of the brand's previous styles, the Pouch hit stores in 2018 and brought clutch bags back to the fashion fore. Even the iterations that don't feature woven leather are instantly recognisable by their dumpling shape.
SHOP THE POUCH:
The magnetic closure keeps the iconic shape of the Pouch.
The leather is buttery soft to create the draped shape.
This shade is a personal favourite of mine.
4. Sofia Richie with the Bottega Veneta Andiamo
On Sofia Richie Grainge: Bottega Veneta Small Andiamo (£2960)
Style Notes: A recent addition by the brand's latest Creative Director, Matthieu Blazy, the Andiamo has already made an impact. This versatile style features braided straps that can be adjusted to be worn on the shoulder or crossbody, or the bag can be carried by the top handle.
SHOP THE ANDIAMO:
You'll find this becomes your everyday go-to bag.
From the suede finish to the caramel colour, this is a work of art.
Nothing says spring like a buttery yellow bag.
5. Jacob Elordi with the Bottega Veneta Cassette
On Jacob Elordi: Bottega Veneta Cassette Intrecciato-Leather Cross-Body Bag (£3230)
Style Notes: A style spotted on so many celebrities, the Cassette ticks all the It bag boxes. Defined by the boxy shape, thick weave and easy crossbody style, the Cassette has been often imitated but never equalled.
SHOP THE CASSETTE:
The ultimate crossbody bag really does exist.
A style that will seamlessly blend with all your favourite neutrals.
The draped weave shows how high quality Bottega's craftpersonship really is.
6. Kendall Jenner with the Bottega Veneta Sardine
On Kendall Jenner: Bottega Veneta Sardine Intrecciato-Leather Cross-Body Bag (£3500)
Style Notes: A more playful addition to Bottega's handbag line-up is the Sardine. Named for the sardine-shaped handle, this style harmoniously blends design and function and is a statement piece on any wearer.
SHOP THE SARDINE:
Carry by the handle, or wear crossbody with the chain leather strap.
There's something about burgundy that adds instant polish to any look.
Just one of the nine colourways this bag comes in.
Shop More Iconic Bottega Bags:
This compact style will keep all your essentials to hand.
The slouchy shape makes this mega tote even more appealing.
Smart, refined and seriously chic.
The shape is ideal to fit snugly under the arm.
Bottega's best bags are available in so many brilliant shades, including this bold red.
The gold pendant closure is the cherry on top of this brilliant bag.
A classic bucket style with an infusion of Bottega intrecciato weave.
The knot emblem is becoming another icon of the brand.
I love the clear bowling-bag influence in this design.
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