Tomas Maier’s 15th year at Bottega Veneta coincides serendipitously with the house’s 50th anniversary. The creative director shares his thoughts on the past, present and future, in this exclusive interview with JACQUIE ANG
CRAFTSMANSHIP HAS ALWAYS been the beating heart of Bottega Veneta. From a humble artisanal goods workshop in Vicenza founded by Michele Taddei and Renzo Zengiaro in 1966 (the name “Bottega Veneta” literally means “Venetian workshop” in Italian), it has now come of age as a luxury powerhouse offering a comprehensive range spanning leather goods, ready-to-wear and accessories to watches and home furnishings.
“Heritage and tradition are inherent values of Bottega Veneta,” Tomas Maier points out. “We will always stay true to the artisanal roots of the house, a cultural heritage which fuses technique and creativity with know-how and gestures that have been passed down over time and grant our brand’s identity.”
The 59-year-old German remembers fondly the first time he met the artisans: “It was shortly after I joined. I was very moved by their incredible passion for their work, even when the company was struggling to survive.”
Things revved up after its acquisition by Kering (formerly known as Gucci Group) in February 2001. The quiet, elegant Bottega Veneta was meant to be the counterpoint to the sexy, glamourous Gucci. Tom Ford, who served as creative director of Gucci Group then, knew the power of match-making. He wasted no time approaching Maier, who had honed his craft in stealth luxe designing for some of the most illustrious names in fashion: Guy Laroche, Sonia Rykiel and Hermès. In June, Maier was appointed creative director of the brand and by September, produced a collection of bags and shoes to show for Spring/Summer 2002.
Bu hikaye Prestige Singapore dergisinin October 2016 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Giriş Yap
Bu hikaye Prestige Singapore dergisinin October 2016 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Giriş Yap
Double Take
Although somewhat dismissed by the contemporary art world as gimmicky, works that incorporate optical illusions remain immensely popular with the general public. Perhaps it speaks to our inherent need for something slightly magical in our everyday lives.
Plugged Into Wealth
Fintech advocate Carney Mak is bullish on disruptive technologies, but preaches deep understanding of business models before diving in.
Going for Green
SIMON ROGAN's visionary approach of cooking in tune with nature is inspiring chefs in Asia to be more sustainable.
TABLES TURNED
They could have their pick of the best schools, but more young super achievers from Asia are going to a hotel academy a choice they believe opens up more doors.
PRECIOUS HISTORY
Cleef Arpel TACHA VASSILTCHIKOV res her insights the jewellery house Peers preserving its patrimony and Heritage.
MARKS OF DISTINCTION
A clasp-free necklace that could be easily put on by the wearer, without assistance.
Colours of the Season
Thanks to K-pop stars, analysing colours to personalise make-up has surged, with theslategs service available from the boutique of Korean. brity make-up artist JUNG SAEM MOOL.
MAKING OF AN OPUS
In Hermes’ Barénia, in-house perfumer CHRISTINE NAGEL has realised a decade-long dream that harks back to her childhood stories.
Everywhere Care
Serums from homegrown skincare brand Blé de Fonty target more than just the face.
Pucker Up
Lip moisturisers are essential in Singapore’s air-conditioned environment. We share our personal favourites and introduce lip care that go the distance.
