Though it’s still a mystery what the British designer will do next, it was announced that “a new creative direction” for Bottega Veneta will be revealed soon
In news that surprised the fashion industry yesterday evening, it was announced that Daniel Lee is to part ways with Bottega Veneta. The British designer and Celine alum took the helm of the Italian Kering-owned brand as its creative director in 2019, revolutionising its visual identity with his bold and original take on the house’s codes. Over the past three years, Lee’s particular brand of contemporary glamour has simultaneously sky-rocketed Bottega Veneta’s sales and cultural positioning, while carving out a new sensual and subversive approach to fashion today.
Lee was tapped for the role at Bottega Veneta in 2019, leaving his position as womenswear director at Celine under Phoebe Philo. His early collections quickly captured the industry’s attention, particularly the label’s covetable accessories and leather goods – such as the squishy pouch bag, chunky leather chelsea boots, square-toed pumps, and woven leather intarsia designs. That year, Lee sweeped all of the four top prizes he was nominated for at the 2019 Fashion Awards. Over the course of the pandemic, Lee has continued to lead the brand forward in a series of brave future-facing moves, such as Bottega Veneta’s departure from the rigid seasonal calendar with the label’s new off-season ‘Salon’ concept, and an exit from all social media platforms.
“My time at Bottega Veneta has been an incredible experience,” said Lee in a statement yesterday. “I am grateful to have worked with an exceptional and talented team and I am forever thankful to everyone who was part of creating our vision. Thank you to Francois-Henri Pinault for his support, and for the opportunity to be part of Bottega Veneta’s story.” While Lee’s future plans are yet to be revealed, it was announced that “a new creative direction” for Bottega Veneta will be revealed soon.