To address the complexities of the modern of the Bottega Veneta Resort 2019, Creative Director Tomas Maier has devised an elegant solution: to design three distinct groups.

“They function like mini collections,” says Maier. “One delivers in November, one in December and one in January. Each one is about what my client might need or want at the time when pieces arrive in the store.”

The women’s collection began by continuing the thread of the Fall 2018 runway with the same rich intense palette in colors like deep orange, marigold yellow and Baccara rose.

ottega Veneta’s signature double cashmere and double wool turns sporty in an oversize duffle coat and jackets with exaggerated toggle closures. Elsewhere, full, round skirts were topped with chunky knits and cropped jackets, balanced by slim high-heeled boots to the knee. For the season’s parties, Maier offers a voluminous dress and skirt in exquisite pleated taffeta.

The second group took a dramatic turn, trading fall’s jewel tones for icy, washed pastels. “I wanted to offer the lightest colors for the darkest days of the year,” says Maier. “I think they’re very mood-lifting.” Those subtle colors are a fine complement to luxe, tactile materials: dense boiled cashmere, Steiff Schulte teddy bear fur and even a touch of lace.

The last group offered a hint of what might come down the spring runway in an energetic eclecticism. “Everything is printed or patterned,” says Maier. “But nothing matches.” These looks require close inspection. Each motif is created from tiny dots, giving the illusion of a houndstooth or wallpaper print from afar. It’s a surreal twist that is signature Bottega Veneta. The looks are designed in layers, to wear now and to wear later. The shoe that goes with everything—an abstract animal print pump with a bright sculptural heel—stands up to the maximalist spirit of the ready-to-wear.

More than ever, women’s handbags celebrate the individualism that is essential to Bottega Veneta. Maier introduces a clever and highly functional “accessory to the accessory.” These are small leather goods in Intrecciato Checker—round coin purses, rectangular mini wallets—designed to slide onto slim belts or the strap of a handbag to customize in any way a client might like. These geometric mini pieces also adorn other bags, such as the Chain Tote, lending an Op Art effect. Meanwhile, a curving and compact crossbody satchel is the perfect new day bag for the woman on the go. Paying homage to the butterfly, a longtime symbol of Bottega Veneta, Maier created a charming cravatteria motif, printed on leather in a few new styles, including the first women’s belt bag.

The Cruise 19 collection serves a dual function, providing Bottega Veneta’s clientele the pieces they need at the right time, while merging that pragmatism with sheer creativity, offering clothes and bags to make one dream.