An image by Robert Longo for Bottega Veneta F/W10

A favorite fashion mantra (attributed to both Coco Chanel and Diana Vreeland) proposes that elegance is refusal. Bottega Veneta’s handbags and ready-to-wear provide substantial evidence to support this claim. For the past 40-plus years, the Italian house has advocated a philosophy of subtle luxury and craftsmanship, as evidenced by its logo-free intrecciato bag, setting a precedent for fashion as art. This perhaps explains artists’ (like Andy Warhol) penchant for the wares. Under the guidance of current creative director Tomas Maier, the brand has parlayed this admiration into a conversation, launching campaign collaborations with creatives like Larry Sultan, Nan Goldin and, for F/W10, Robert Longo. The resulting timeless images along with behind-the-scenes videos can be seen on the house’s recently relaunched website, which also features an engaging “Hand of the Artisan” series, a look at Bottega’s production process, and seasonal runway shows.