Louise Trotter: a new creative chapter at Bottega Veneta
Bottega Veneta, one of the most iconic maisons of the Kering group, has announced Louise Trotter as its new creative director. At 55 years old, the British designer, known for her ability to merge functionality and sophistication, will take on the role at the end of January 2025, marking a new phase in her career and in the history of the Italian brand.
A career of transformations
Born in Newcastle, England, Louise Trotter graduated in marketing from Newcastle Polytechnic before diving into the world of fashion. Her first professional steps were at Whistles, followed by experiences at giants like Gap, Calvin Klein, and Tommy Hilfiger. These experiences helped shape her eye for a design that balances practicality, quality, and commercial appeal.
In 2009, Trotter became the creative director of Joseph, where she successfully repositioned the brand on the global stage. During her nine years at the helm, she took the brand to the London Fashion Week catwalks and significantly boosted its sales and international visibility.
Her debut as creative director at Lacoste in 2019 was also notable. Under her leadership, the French sportswear brand reached new heights by merging its athletic DNA with a sophisticated and contemporary approach. Louise was responsible for redefining Lacoste's aesthetic, elevating sports luxury to a new level and contributing to significant brand growth.
In 2023, after a brief hiatus, Trotter was appointed creative director at Carven, a French house with a legacy of nearly 80 years. In her four collections for the brand, she reinterpreted the maison's classic codes with a utilitarian and feminine approach, solidifying her reputation as an innovative designer with a keen eye for detail.
The arrival at Bottega Veneta
Now, Trotter is preparing to lead Bottega Veneta, replacing Matthieu Blazy, who, after three years of transformative contributions, is taking over the creative direction at Chanel. The transition comes at a strategic moment, with Kering strengthening its commitment to keeping Bottega at the top of cultural and commercial relevance.
In an official statement, Louise expressed her excitement:
"I am deeply honored to join Bottega Veneta as creative director. The maison's historic legacy of art and innovation is truly inspiring, and I look forward to contributing to its future and celebrating its timeless vision."
Leo Rongone, CEO of Bottega Veneta, highlighted the synergy between Trotter's aesthetic and the brand's values:
"Louise combines exceptional design and remarkable craftsmanship. Her sophisticated vision will further strengthen Bottega Veneta's legacy, keeping its relevance in a constantly changing world."
An impact beyond the collections
Louise Trotter's appointment reflects a larger movement in the fashion industry, which has been seeking to diversify the creative voices at the helm of major maisons. Her career is an example of how talent, combined with consistency, can open doors in a highly competitive market dominated by male figures.
While Carven enters a new phase with a restructured business model, the anticipation for Trotter's first runway show for Bottega Veneta, still without a confirmed date, is already shaking up the fashion world. With her discerning approach and sensitivity to the contemporary, Louise is poised to take the maison to new heights, celebrating its artisanal heritage while engaging with the demands of the present.