The Bottega Veneta Knot

Since I already have two black clutches, and am much more likely to be found 19th in line, queuing up for falafel on any given night versus at a black tie event, you’d think that I would be done with dark colored evening bags. However I do have an addiction, and I use my existing clutches for more casual outings more than I thought I would. Because of my fondness for these little bags, last week I finally picked up an item on my list that I’ve been after for years – a Bottega Veneta Knot!

Bottega Veneta studded Knot clutch

I first spied this studded Bottega knot almost 18 months ago, and was immediately drawn to it.  I didn’t buy it because a) there were other closet priorities at the time, and b) I thought I might want to wait out for a more “classic” style. Since it was a seasonal style, I thought that I might try and wait out for a sale as well. Over the months there were a few other clutches that caught my eye – but none that really spoke to me like this studded one. I hemmed and hawed and went and bothered a few Bottega experts that I knew (including two that were interviewed on this site – Belle and T, thank you!) and learned that Bottega knots almost never go on sale, especially in black. They also aren’t carried in the outlets.

And they were right – over 18 months the clutch didn’t go on sale, and even had a small price increase – drat! Even worse, the black ended up going out of stock on all the websites I was stalking it on. When I randomly saw one in black reappear, I deliberated and then pulled the trigger. When the clutch arrived, I knew that it was staying.

I love Bottega Veneta’s leather and the Knot is no exception – the leather is supple and perfect in your hand.  The studs aren’t cheaply glued in but instead seem to be sturdily riveted on. I have also always loved the “knot” clasp that flips back to open up the bag – it’s a very satisfying feeling!

The Knot obviously doesn’t hold very much – a bit less than a Chanel Wallet-on-Chain because of its structured nature. A mobile phone or camera, lipstick, keys and some cash are about it. An iPhone in a typical case (including an iPhone 5, below) easily fits.

And a small detail but I love the small matching dustbag it arrives in.

My favorite aspect of the Bottega Veneta Knot is one I know shared with many of the brand’s enthusiasts – the feel of it in your hand. It fits perfectly and feels great to wear. And like most Knots I’ve seen (with the exception perhaps of the satin versions), it goes well with both casual and evening clothes.

In case there are others in the market for this beautiful bag, I thought I would share some of my learnings:

– Bottega Veneta Knots rarely if ever go on sale – if they do, it’s typically for seasonal colors (there are some gorgeous seasonal versions) and many sell out before reaching that point.
– There are two types of Knots: regular (mine) and elongated. Elongated Knots do fit more but some find them a little more unwieldy to carry.
– Remember that since you are carrying these in your hand, sweat/oils from your skin may transfer to the bag’s leather. This is why I ended up going with the black version of my bag, but was greatly tempted by the gorgeous red.
– Of the dressier fabrics (satin and silk), satin is more dressy and shiny but also more delicate. Silk faille is typically more matte and can more easily be worn during the day.

Bottega experts please correct me if any of this is wrong or if you have any other tips. And if you have a Knot, I’d love to hear your experiences with it as well!