MILAN, Sep 30, 2004/ FW/ --- With every model who came out on the catwalk carrying a handbag or a tote, Tomas Maier’s main concern is still obviously the accessories business. But the clothes he showed proved that he is as masterful as a tailor as he is an artisan.

A former Hermès designer and swimwear maestro, Tomas Maier said when he joined Gucci-owned company that he “wants to turn Bottega Veneta into the number one Italian luxury leather goods house.”

And that he did within 24 months! He has transformed Bottega Veneta from a status driven fashion line into a truly luxurious brand.

For Spring 2005, Thomas Maier continues that mission, sending a golden collection for the upper crust who has a lust for travel and globetrotting.

Opening with a mackintosh, traveling jersey suit and a big black tote bag, the Bottega Veneta fans do not have to looking anywhere but Bottega Veneta for their travel needs.

Generously cut khaki trousers, loose fitting jackets and coats, leather skirts and Capri pants, and even a golden trench coat and suede go-anywhere dress – all of these are easy-wearing pieces and don’t crease so much.

From totes to handbags, even a little pouch for your mobile phone that you can hook in your belt loop, Tomas Maier thought of everything a lady and a gentleman would need while jetting around the globe.

Though it is not surprising to see that the German-born designer is good with the scissors cutting fabric as he is with leather, it is nice to be reminded once in a while like this golden collection.

“Over hill, over dale,
I do wander everywhere,
Swifter than the moon's sphere
And I serve the fairy queen.”

Bottega Veneta

Bottega Veneta

Bottega Veneta

Bottega Veneta