Bottega Veneta and creative chief Daniel Lee part ways

Bottega Veneta creative chief Daniel Lee is leaving the Kering-owned house he has been credited with reviving after just over three years in the role.

The British designer took over at Bottega Veneta in July 2018, having previously worked under another British designer Phoebe Philo during her tenure at Celine. He has produced hit after hit for the house including its famous, and much copied, pouch bag, "Puddle" sling-backs, "Lido" mules, "Wire Stretch" sandals, and this season's must-have chunky "Lug" boot.

He is also known for his love of bright colours with bold turquoise and grass green becoming something of a house code under his tenure.

The Lido in grass green

In a statement, Kering said the designer had brought "new energy" to the house, which had previously been led by German designer Tomas Maier for 17 years.

Leo Rongone, CEO of Bottega Veneta, stated: “I would like to thank Daniel for his dedication to the House over the past three years. He provided Bottega Veneta with a fresh perspective and a new sense of modernity, while remaining respectful of the brand’s fifty-year heritage. The remarkable growth of the brand over the last three years bears testimony to the success of his creative work.”

Kering chairman & CEO of Kering, François-Henri Pinault, added: “I am very grateful to Daniel for having brought his passion and energy to Bottega Veneta. His singular vision made the House’s heritage relevant for today and put it back to the center of the fashion scene. I would like to personally thank him for the unique chapter that he has written in the long history of Bottega Veneta.”

Lee said of his departure: “My time at Bottega Veneta has been an incredible experience. I am grateful to have worked with an exceptional and talented team and I am forever thankful to everyone who was part of creating our vision. Thank you to Francois-Henri Pinault for his support, and for the opportunity to be part of Bottega Veneta’s story.”

Kering has said that a new "creative organisation" for Bottega Veneta will be announced soon while Lee's departure will prompt intense speculation about his next move. The Central Saint Martins graduate is one of the hottest properties in fashion and is nominated for the Designer of the Year prize at the Fashion Awards, taking place on Monday 29 November.