MILAN — Whether sporty or elegant, bland or bright, in leather or fabric, Bottega Veneta is a class act.
Designer Tomas Maier doesn't believe in logos — "when your own initials are enough" is the company's motto — and yet his unfussy, streamlined style is always recognizable.
Although an innovator, Maier goes along with the rest of the pack currently showing their winter 2011-2012 menswear in Milan by offering a cheery palette for the next round of cold weather fashion.
Lobster red, electric blue, plum purple and acid yellow shared the limelight Sunday with staple black and brown for boiled wool jackets with slim lapels over super-soft leather pants.
The overall silhouette is cut close to the body but does not hug it. Coats are usually double-breasted, with the duffel coat the favourite look. Zipper detailing often replaces complicated buttoning.
Maier has lots of shirts in the new collection, but not a single tie. Worn under a jacket or cardigan with shawl collar, the shirts are primly buttoned at the neck.
The company started as a leather manufacturer, and the latest Bottega bag is a small leather duffel.
In keeping with the label's discreet style, shoes are sporty but never aggressive. Short boots, often worn over pants, is the new favourite look.
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