From the enchanting streets of the city to the serene yet haunting landscapes of the desert, Bottega Veneta’s Autumn/Winter ’24 collection took spectators on a mesmerising journey in Milan.

Set against the warm sunset hues of orange and yellow, with sandy wooden floors echoing the vastness of barren land, the scene was nothing short of captivating. Glass-blown sculptures of cacti stood tall, setting the tone for an unforgettable runway experience. Adding to the excitement of it all, the show witnessed the presence of iconic guests, including Julianne Moore, Kate Moss, Salma Hayek, and the face of the campaign, A$AP Rocky.

Under the creative helm of Matthieu Blazy, Bottega Veneta continues to redefine luxury craftsmanship. Shifting focus from the versatility and flexibility of leather, Blazy embraced the simplicity and elegance inherent in raw materials.

The collection, aptly named “Monumentalism of Everyday,” celebrates the fusion of practicality and artistic expression. Yet, beneath the surface, a deeper narrative unfolds. Like a phoenix rising from its ashes, Bottega Veneta’s Autumn/Winter ‘24 collection embodies the scars of damage, the echoes of pain, and strength forged through adversity.

The concept of burning finds expression in the collection’s colour palette, which is awash with neutral and earthy tones like subtle beige, safari green and mustard yellow. These subdued hues are juxtaposed with bold bursts of burgundy which infuse the ensemble with a heightened intensity, while sky blue brings a glimmer of hope to the mix.

Structured silhouettes dominated the runway, with coats boasting constructed shoulders and collars, reminiscent of protective wear. Contrasts emerge with flaky patterns adorning loose-fitting dresses, portraying the fragility of existence. A striking yellow and black skirt mirrors flickering flames before gently fading into ashes. This fiery motif is echoed in a burgundy co-ord set, accentuated with scars of teal and lime, as if the aftermath of a blazing inferno. In other pieces, layers of fabric folded atop each other evoke a sensation of melting under intense heat, conveying a visual narrative of transformation.

Beyond their protective qualities, select ensembles present as formidable armour in the shape of fabricated spikes. A coat in yellow, black, and white, adorned with protruding tassels, envelops the model almost like a second skin, exudes sense of strength and resilience.

The concluding theme of regeneration takes centre stage with woollen coats with patches of ashy colours, symbolising a profound loss of vitality and the subsequent journey towards renewal. A standout piece features an exquisite asymmetrical cut dress crafted from three different coloured fabrics attached to each other, embodying the concept of rebuilding, piece by piece, and embracing the beauty found in imperfection. Another ensemble features a structured set stamped with dates, reminiscent of a memoir etched with the events of the past.

The passage of time and its healing influence are subtly reflected in the deliberate selection of accessories. From a grandmother’s cherished crocodile bag to a mother’s elegant clutch and a father’s classic Oxfords, these items symbolise the inheritance and transmission of familial legacy from one generation to the next. They serve as tangible reminders of our shared history and identity, embodying the enduring connections that bind us together through time.

Bottega Veneta’s Autumn/Winter ’24 collection forgoes the whimsy of fairy tales and fantastical realms, instead confronting the harsh realities of our present existence. Yet, amidst these challenges, lies an the innate resilience that resides within us, catalysing personal transformation and growth. Through this ethos, the collection encapsulates the ever-evolving and progressive spirit of humanity. Under the guidance of Matthieu Blazy, the brand heralds a new era of earthly sophistication, where timeless elegance intertwines with the realities of contemporary life.

In doing so, Bottega Veneta redefines luxury, not merely as a symbol of opulence, but as a testament to the strength and adaptability of the human spirit.