Born in Sunderland, Louise Trotter has carved a remarkable niche in the fashion industry. She began her career at Whistles, where her exceptional talent quickly led to her promotion as Creative Director. Currently, she is the Creative Director at Bottega Veneta, leading the brand into a new era. Here are ten key insights into Louise Trotter’s inspiring journey. Yanki Chu reports
1. A wealth of experience
Trotter made a bold move to New York, where she took on the role of Head of Womenswear at Calvin Klein. Her impressive resume includes stints as Vice President of Womenswear Design at GAP and Senior Vice President Creative Director at Tommy Hilfiger. From 2018 to 2022, she served as Creative Director at Lacoste, modernizing the brand’s sporty heritage with charm. In February 2023, she joined Carven as Creative Director, reinvigorating the label with her focus on sensuality and texture. After a year-long break, her debut collection was launched in September 2023.
2. Joining Bottega Veneta in January 2025
In January 2025, Trotter will officially join Bottega Veneta, ushering in a new chapter for the luxury brand. Leo Rongone, CEO of Bottega Veneta, has emphasized how Trotter’s aesthetic harmonizes exquisite design with exceptional craftsmanship. Her dedication to cultural advocacy aligns beautifully with the brand’s vision, and she is currently preparing for her debut collection, set to launch in September 2025.
3. Functionality above all
Trotter stands out for her commitment to creating functional yet stylish pieces for women. She prioritizes comfort and craftsmanship, ensuring her designs not only please the eye but also cater to the everyday needs of women, emphasizing real-world wearability and effortless confidence.
4. A minimalist aesthetic
Renowned for her meticulous attention to detail, Trotter often emphasizes tailoring, innovative fabrics, and timeless design. Her work with brands like Tommy Hilfiger and Jigsaw showcases a minimalist aesthetic characterized by clean lines that balance sharp geometric shapes with softer, more sensual elements.
5. Open to new ideas
Trotter is known for her collaborative spirit and eagerness to learn. She embraces new knowledge and fosters an environment where her team feels empowered to share their ideas. Her approach promotes the belief that the best ideas win, highlighting the importance of teamwork in the creative process.
6. Versatile design expertise
Her collections are designed for a range of occasions, from school runs to work meetings and birthday parties. Trotter’s sleek, timeless silhouettes enhance wearability, featuring feminine pastel colorways and luxurious textures like silk and organza. Her designs beautifully blend femininity with a modern twist.
7. Commitment to sustainability
A strong advocate for sustainable and ethical fashion, Trotter focuses on creating everyday wear that lasts. She meticulously examines every aspect of her clothing, from label construction to fabric durability, ensuring each piece is both stylish and environmentally responsible.
8. Valuing sports
During her time at Lacoste, Trotter embraced the core values of sports—tenacity, fair play, community, and joy. She believes these principles are essential for everyday life, helping individuals navigate the fine line between winning and losing.
9. Merging technology with natural quality
Trotter is fascinated by the integration of advanced technology with fabric quality. She explores innovative bonding and finishing techniques while maintaining the natural feel of the materials. Her challenge lies in balancing performance with the tactile qualities consumers desire.
10. Redefining Luxury
Trotter understands that the concept of luxury is evolving, especially as younger generations demand more from brands. She believes luxury should not be defined by scarcity or high price points but rather by genuine value and accessibility. As Louise Trotter continues to influence the fashion landscape, her unique vision and unwavering commitment to quality promise to leave a lasting impact on the industry.
