During the evening of March 1, 2025, in Milan, Bottega Veneta celebrated fashion week with an exclusive performance by the legendary punk-poet and musician Patti Smith. The event, titled 'Correspondences,' was a collaboration between Smith and Soundwalk Collective, held at the newly renovated Palazzo San Fedele. This historic venue, once a theater, hosted an evening filled with music, poetry, and film. Smith paid homage to Italian architect Carlo Mollino through her original poem and concluded with an emotional a cappella rendition of 'Because the Night.' The event also marked Bottega Veneta’s anticipation for Louise Trotter’s debut as the new creative director.
A Celebration of Artistic Collaboration and Legacy
The gathering at Palazzo San Fedele brought together a diverse audience for an evening that seamlessly blended various art forms. The partnership with Soundwalk Collective, known for its innovative sonic arts projects, added depth to the experience. Smith recited a specially written poem about Carlo Mollino, an enigmatic figure who left behind a rich legacy of architecture and photography. The intimate setting allowed attendees to feel connected to both the artist and the historical context she evoked.
Mollino’s dual life fascinated Smith, particularly his secret apartment filled with erotic Polaroids, which were only discovered after his death. Smith visited this apartment to prepare for her performance, drawing inspiration from Mollino’s unique blend of creativity and mystery. The inclusion of Mollino’s bed in the event further enhanced the immersive atmosphere. Butterflies, a recurring motif in Mollino’s work, were recreated by Bottega Veneta artisans, adding a visual element that tied the past and present together. Smith’s performance culminated with an a cappella version of 'Because the Night,' dedicated to her late husband, Fred 'Sonic' Smith, on their 45th wedding anniversary.
New Beginnings at Bottega Veneta
The event not only honored the past but also looked forward to the future of Bottega Veneta. With Louise Trotter set to make her debut as the new creative director, the brand is poised for a fresh chapter. Trotter’s appointment follows the departure of Matthieu Blazy to Chanel, signaling a shift in leadership and vision. Her pragmatic design approach, honed during her tenures at Joseph and Lacoste, promises to bring a new perspective to the iconic Italian house.
Trotter’s arrival marks a significant moment for Bottega Veneta, especially after the successful period under Daniel Lee and Matthieu Blazy. While the exact direction of her designs remains a closely guarded secret, expectations are high for her September debut. The event served as a bridge between Bottega Veneta’s storied history and its upcoming transformation. Attendees left with a sense of anticipation, eager to see how Trotter will reinterpret the brand’s signature elements and introduce her own innovative touch. The night was a testament to the enduring power of artistic expression and the promise of new beginnings.