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Bottega Veneta closed Milan Fashion Week on Saturday, September 21, with a brilliant showcase that highlighted a whimsical childhood and a tribute to Madonna by Dolce & Gabbana.
Milan Fashion Week wrapped up this Saturday with a series of captivating surprises, notably at the highly anticipated Bottega Veneta show. Marking the end of the fashion calendar, the venue was transformed into an adult playground, complete with huge leather poufs shaped like animals.
Madonna, sitting front row at the Dolce & Gabbana show, was barely recognizable, concealed behind a delicate veil. On stage, each outfit paid tribute to the singer’s “Vogue” era, with models wearing blonde wigs and pointed corsets, complemented by men’s tuxedos adorned with garters.
At Bottega Veneta, childhood took center stage. Artistic Director Matthieu Blazy drew inspiration from a scene in Steven Spielberg’s film E.T., where the discovery of a childlike, wonderful world of stuffed animals hiding E.T. evokes purity and innocence. “Everything becomes possible, everything is a game, a joyful adventure,” Blazy shared, encapsulating the philosophy behind his collection.
Bottega Veneta’s designs appeared deliberately oversized, as if borrowed from a parent’s wardrobe: flared dresses, asymmetrical trousers and bold layering. A highlight of the show was a dress adorned with matches, symbolizing childhood’s forbidden games, both daring and dangerous.
Blazy also explored often-overlooked everyday fashion acts, such as a perfectly suited father carrying his daughter’s bulky, pink backpack to school, a striking image from the presentation.
Founded in 1966 and incorporated into the Kering group in 2001, Bottega Veneta is renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship. While its parent company, Gucci, is experiencing a tough period with a 20% drop in sales, Bottega Veneta, though more modest with €836 million in revenue, has shown an encouraging 3% growth.
In 2021, the brand made the bold move to delete its Instagram account, which was followed by millions, a strategy that bolstered its cult status thanks to fans creating an unofficial account. Bottega Veneta continues to charm with artistic initiatives, such as the publication of a biannual fanzine, which quickly became a collectible item.
The brand enhances its image with renowned collaborations and exclusive events, such as the recent opening of Palazzo Van Axel in Venice, providing a unique experience for its most important clients, with tailored services and access to extraordinary artworks and crafts.
With AFP
