Boston Common - Niche Media - A side of Boston that's anything but common.
Issue link: http://www.ifoldsflip.com/i/385222
photography by aNDrEaS SoLaro/aFp/gEtty ImagES (browN SwEatEr); CourtESy oF bottEga VENEta (ruNway, bagS) "Boston's men and women have a low-key, classic style and an appreciation for quality, which is very in line with the Bottega veneta aesthetic." —tomas maier The Italian fashion house's men's and women's collections emphasize timeless sophistication, relying on classic cuts cast in luxe fabrics such as crepe, silk, and leather rather than trend-driven pieces. The clothing is unmistakably Bottega, with its mix of graphic patterns, asymmetri- cal seams, and trompe l'oeil architecture—but not a BV logo in sight. "The Bottega Veneta woman and man are two halves to the same whole," Maier explains. "They are individuals who are more interested in craftsmanship and lasting value than a logo." The new Boylston Street store is sumptuously decorated, with Ultrasuede walls, mohair-upholstered furniture, and custom-dyed wool carpets. The 2,500 -square-foot space features the women's ready-to-wear collection, as well as accessories, shoes, eyewear, jewelry, and fragrance for both men and women. Currently on display, the label's Fall/ Winter 2014 collection focuses on movement. "I always start with color, not general shades but very specific, precise hues," Maier says of his design process. "Next, I consider materials which naturally lead to shape and construction." For men, Maier's rendi- tions of traditional accessories are particularly clever. Monk straps are reimagined on weather- appropriate Chelsea boots, supple leather briefcases come with detachable nylon shoulder straps, and compartmentalized bags in chalky tones of eggshell and dove are ideal for transporting electronics. Overall, he says, the accessories represent an "athletic ease," evident in the shop's assortment of polished metal aviators, woven leather bracelets, oxidized silver pendants, and sporty leather gloves. For the men of Boston, "I'd recommend a structured cross-body bag with a wide strap," Maier says. The sleek bags come in soft leather or the brand's signature Intrecciato weave. On the women's side, the new boutique stocks bold black-and-white dresses with pops of crimson, evergreen, and yellow, while some of the most distinctive designs are rendered in shades of gray, like an office- appropriate shift dress in a psychedelic marbled print and a cozy charcoal pullover paired with a midi-skirt painted to appear as if it were entirely pleated. Transitioning seamlessly from work to weekend, Bottega Veneta offers a unique balance of luxury a nd versat ilit y t hat seems as though it were tailor- made for Boston. 300 Boylston st., 617-960-0880; bottegaveneta.com BC left and top right: Looks from Bottega's men's Fall/Winter 2014 runway show in Milan. bottom right: Buffalo Leather Metal Gardena bags ($3,100 each). 44 bostoncommon-magazine.com STYLE The Style Setter