Saclàb Journal Bottega Veneta: Louise Trotter’s New Act

Bottega Veneta: Louise Trotter’s New Act

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In an industry often driven by spectacle, Trotter’s appointment signals something different: a belief in subtle power, in style that whispers rather than shouts.

Sylvia Berté

Published on 6 May 2025 / Updated on 8 May 2025

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After a steady rise through the ranks of British and American fashion houses, following her celebrated stints at Joseph, Lacoste, and Carven, Louise Trotter steps into her boldest role yet: Creative Director of Bottega Veneta. Appointed in January 2025, she brings to the house her signature blend of understated confidence, elevated essentials, and an uncompromising respect for well-crafted fashion.

Lacoste Spring/Summer 2020. Image: Launchmetrics Spotlight

Her appointment marks a significant moment for the Italian brand — not only because of her unique vision, but also for representation. Trotter is the only woman currently leading a Kering house. All eyes are now on what her thoughtful approach will bring to one of fashion’s most quietly influential names.

From Sunderland to the World Stage

Born in Sunderland, England, Trotter studied fashion at Northumbria University before beginning her career in London. A move to the U.S. followed, where she worked at Calvin Klein, Gap, and later Tommy Hilfiger. She returned to the UK as Creative Director of Jigsaw, before joining Joseph in 2009.

At Joseph, the British designer reshaped the brand’s minimalist codes with sharp tailoring, tactile layers, and a refined urban sensibility. Over nearly a decade, she helped establish the brand as a key reference in contemporary luxury, with her intelligent designs grounded in real-life wearability.

Elevating Heritage: Lacoste and Carven

In 2018, Trotter became the first female Creative Director of Lacoste. There, she brought renewed clarity to the brand’s sporty DNA, balancing crisp minimalism with fashion-forward silhouettes. Her tenure was marked by clean lines, clever reimaginings of the polo shirt, and a new focus on womenswear.

At Carven, where she was appointed in 2023, she faced the challenge of reviving a heritage French house. Her debut collection was widely praised for its thoughtful restraint and modern tailoring, blending a sense of ease with understated romance. Though her time at Carven was brief, she reestablished the brand’s potential with clarity and care.

Carven Spring/Summer 2024. Image: Launchmetrics Spotlight

A Design Ethos Rooted in Real Life

Trotter’s work is often described as intuitive and intelligent, less about making noise and more about creating lasting impact. She draws inspiration from how people actually live and dress, marrying practicality with emotional design. Whether a structured coat or a fluid knit, her pieces always carry an effortless sense of confidence.

Placing high value on the relationships between designer and artisan, studio and atelier, she’s also a strong advocate for collaboration. Her process is rooted in exchange, and her collections often feel like the product of many skilled hands guided by a singular, grounded vision.

Coming Next at Bottega Veneta

As she prepares her debut collection for September 2025, Trotter inherits a house with deep artisanal roots and a global cult following. Known for its signature Intrecciato weave, discreet branding, and outstanding material integrity, Bottega Veneta provides an ideal canvas for Trotter’s vision.

Early expectations suggest a continuation of the house’s core values — craft, clarity, innovation — filtered through Trotter’s precise lens. With her at the helm, the future of Bottega Veneta looks set to be elegantly quiet, thoughtfully bold, and unmistakably her own.