Flights of Fancy at Bottega Veneta: Louise Trotter’s Shimmering Milan Collection

Louise Trotter unveiled her second collection for Bottega Veneta at Milan Fashion Week, drawing inspiration from the city’s stark contrasts. Brutalist architecture and grey weather translated into armor‑like coats, while Milan’s theatrical flair emerged in shimmering, tactile creations made from recycled fibreglass fibres.

Armour and Leather

The Fall/Winter 2026 collection featured long jackets and coat dresses with exaggerated shoulders, resembling protective armour. Some were paired with dangling brown leather belts, evoking sword imagery. True to Bottega Veneta’s heritage, leather infused the designs, appearing on shoulder patches, collars, and epaulets. One standout look swaddled a model in supple olive leather, combining an oversized bomber jacket with an asymmetrical skirt and leather flip‑flops.

Fibreglass Fantasy

The show took a dramatic turn with coats crafted from recycled fibreglass, a material Trotter first introduced last September. These voluminous, costume‑like pieces shimmered under the lights of a former theatre near La Scala opera. Electric blue, bubble‑gum pink, and black versions paired with matching hats created a striking spectacle. A Harlequin‑inspired sweater added playful theatricality with red and black splotches against a white base.

Dressing Up With Pride

Trotter explained her vision backstage: “I wanted to express that joy, that theatric. It’s dressing up for oneself and also for one’s community. I think it’s a sign of pride and respect.” Her goal, she added, is to bring joy and confidence to people through clothing.

Celebrity Spotlight

Rapper Lauryn Hill attended the show wearing one of Trotter’s glittering fibreglass sweaters in electric orange, accessorised with an oversized intreccio fringe purse. Assistants fanned her to keep cool, sending the fibres of the garment aflutter. “It’s got a life of its own,” one remarked.

A Bold Statement

With recycled materials, bold silhouettes, and shimmering theatrics, Trotter’s second Bottega Veneta collection captured both the harshness and hidden sensuality of Milan. It was a celebration of fashion as armour, performance, and joy.