Danielle Guercio

Bottega Veneta Sample Sale - An Investment Opportunity in Timeless Pieces

30 July 2014

The signature woven intrecciato technique is synonymous with the brand Bottega Veneta. Referred to as a heritage brand, Bottega Veneta’s timeless and quality luxury goods keep artisan industries alive in a time of downsizing and penny pinching. On 18th street between 6th and 7th avenues you can find a steep, fleeting discount on some ‘heritage’ goods.

Most known for their handbags, a center table held a selection of bags, most in the woven style. Bags were in the $200-$1500 range, and depending on the construction or type, well worth the price. All of Bottega Veneta’s bags are renowned for the quality of their construction, and are meant to last for generations. There were totes, clutches, satchels, and a small collection of luggage. One of the most exciting prospects, the area with crocodile and alligator leather. Any crocodile or alligator priced less that $2000 is worth a peek.

Checkout line was pretty long, and we heard a rumor that this sale will not be restocking, so we really suggest getting there ASAP if you know what is good for your wardrobe.

Small leather accessories were plentiful, next to a limited costume jewelry selection. Belts and luggage tags were mingling in different sizes and colors. Across the room, the shoe selection was truly awesome, with pairs going for $100-$300 and for both men and women. Woven styles looked expertly made, and you know that they are, making them truly worth the price. We saw on trend menswear details on women’s boots and raffia pumps that are still a viable purchase with one month left of summer.

Men’s clothing had coats, leather pants, cargo pants, fitted canvas pants, and a few pairs of suit pants. We saw one or two sweaters and coats, but the three racks of men’s items were absolutely swarmed with gentlemen callers. The pieces are well tailored and their suitors appear the same, meaning this sale is one for those truly in the know and with the extra cash to invest.

Womenswear was a bit more adventurous, with this season’s favorite leather accent trend permeating even the top brands such as this. Earthy colored gowns hung next to oscar worthy organza gowns, and for around $300 to $500, you could grab your gala dress for a fraction of it’s normal price. Coats were raw textured and brightly colored, but again only a few left and in smaller sizes.

Most attendees seemed very much in the know about what they were purchasing, and were headed for the dressing room with piles of items that they were likely to walk out with and into their waiting sedan. If you have the big bucks, this is a must see, if you are looking for a few higher priced faithful pieces, again you must visit. If you are a browser, you might want to skip this one, especially if the line is long.

WHEN: 7/30 – 7/31; W (11-7), Th (9-6)

WHERE: Metropolitan Pavilion
125 West 18th Street
between Sixth and Seventh Avenues
New York, NY