Bottega Veneta Convertible Tote Bag

Features

Why we love it

Description & history

A Bottega Veneta Convertible Tote in full-grain Intrecciato woven lambskin · taupe colourway · double zip opening · side fastening system allowing the bag to be folded in · hand or shoulder carry · serial number B01921773* · Made in Italy · Entrupy certificate · 51 × 42 cm · grade B.

Bottega Veneta was born in Vicenza in 1966 and built on a refusal: that of the logo. While every Italian house of the era signed its pieces, this one chose to display nothing at all and place everything in the hands of its artisans. Intrecciato — this weave of fine leather strips interlaced by hand — was born from this constraint, compounded by another, more practical one: the sewing machines of the time damaged the finest leathers, so they were woven rather than stitched.

On a format of this size, the effect is striking. The weave runs uninterrupted across the entire surface, including the handles. The full-grain lambskin gives the whole piece a suppleness that changes everything: the bag does not stand rigidly; it drapes, creases and takes the shape of whatever is placed inside. Empty and laid flat, it is only two centimetres thick and stores like a pouch; filled, it expands fully. The warm, slightly greyed taupe is one of the easiest colourways to wear in the house's wardrobe.

The model name says it all. A fastening system placed on the sides allows them to be folded inwards, instantly reducing the bag's volume: the large travel tote becomes a daytime bag again without losing any of its shape. Unfastened, it returns to its 51 cm width and easily holds a 15-inch laptop, a pair of shoes, a toiletry bag, a cosmetic pouch and a companion wallet — everything needed for a business trip or weekend away. The double zip runs along the entire opening to keep everything secure, while a zipped pocket organises the interior. Made in Italy, serial number B01921773*.

Very good overall condition, grade B — supple leather, Intrecciato weave in good condition, corners in good condition, functional double zip, interior in good condition with slight signs of previous use and a clean zipped pocket. No major flaws to report; everything is documented in the photos. Sold with its Entrupy authentication certificate, in addition to the dustbag and RARR Vintage certificate.