The so-called “murse” is not new to socially acceptable fashion, but when images of Jacob Elordi emerged, front row at Bottega Veneta with a chocolate-colored Padded Cassette crossbody, delicate bags for men were solidified as sexy. The Euphoria star was not alone among elusive celebrities adorned in looks built around a Bottega bag: Julianne Moore matched simple earrings to the shape and color of her silver beaded purse and Tracee Ellis Ross paired her rounded blue clutch with an equally curvy blue minidress. The Bottega bag seems to carry the same status of cool once embodied by the Birkin.

Bottega’s Fall 2022 ready-to-wear collection marks the debut of Matthieu Blazy as creative director. A former Balenciaga intern, Blazy has made his name behind the scenes at Raf Simons, Maison Margiela Artisanal, CELINE, and Calvin Klein. After a sudden exit from his predecessor, Daniel Lee, Blazy’s promotion generated much speculation, but the designer confidently embodied the house’s history, bringing a show littered with self-referential pieces to its home in Milan.

Leather disguised as denim, thigh-high silver boots, buttery yellow layered skirts, and lace sequined slips are equal parts historical and evolutionary for Bottega. Extravagance is thoughtfully paired with utility as gentle sweaters are matched with mid-century style skirts, and a white tank top and jeans are elevated with a woven reddish bag. Cropped flares and swooped backs bring movement to the collection, which successfully proves Blazy’s appointment as creative director will not hinder, but continue to elevate and build upon the legacy of Bottega.