Simply Abu Dhabi XXXV

bottega veneta Bo t t ega Vene t a Men Au t umn/Wi n t e r 2019 A longside his highly anticipated women’s looks, newly appointed creative director Daniel Lee showed a small but assertive menswear collection for Autumn/Winter 2019 at Milan Fashion Week. Lee, until recently best known for his womenswear at Celine under Phoebe Philo, took over the helm at the house following the departure of Tomas Maier and all eyes were on the young Brit at his first major show. Bottega Veneta is well known – and much loved – for its use of leather, especially the woven chequerboard pattern known as intrecciato. As a teaser prior to the launch of the first full-fledged collection, Lee debuted the tantalising intrecciato woven leather bag, letting the world know something very interesting indeed was on the way. And the collection does not disappoint; fresh, energetic, and masculine, this line lets the cut and fabric do the talking. Continuing Bottega Veneta’s legacy of incredible leather, Lee brings new life to the material, with an impeccably tailored suit in a stunning shade of honey and a long short in a rich brown leather. Paired with a chunky boot that is sure to be a must-have item for men this autumn, the look is edgy, clean and ultra-modern. Black and navy rollnecks are rendered in luxurious (and expensive-looking) cashmere, their light weight contrasting beautifully with the muscular black motorcycle jackets and boots. The outerwear in materials other than leather is also elevated by strong shapes and sumptuous materials: chunky wool jackets, structured coats with narrow sleeves and pronounced shoulders. Daniel Lee kept a low profile at the show, but he has been quoted as saying “I like real clothes. I think there’s a need for a return to elegance and sophistication.”With this impressive debut collection, Lee delivered on his promise, and then some. It’s ambitious and assertive, making it clear that Lee is one to watch – mindful of Bottega Veneta’s heritage and unique stamp, yet bringing a fresh and independent perspective to the esteemed house’s sophisticated style.