Upcycling Diaries - Bottega look-a-like
I found this beautiful pair of woven leather shoes in a secondhand shop during a recent trip to Brazil, for just $10. The craftsmanship immediately caught my eye — the intricate intrecciato-style weaving reminded me of Bottega Veneta, and the shoes were incredibly comfortable and well made.
Natalia Bertolo1 min read
I actually loved their original yellow and green colour combination, but years of wear and probably less-than-ideal storage had left the leather faded and stained. They had so much potential, and I couldn't resist giving them a second life.
Initially, I considered restoring the original colours, but working with two different shades on such an intricate woven structure would have been incredibly difficult. Instead, I decided to transform them using a deep chocolate-brown leather dye. It took several layers to achieve a rich, even finish, but the result was exactly what I'd hoped for. The darker colour really highlights the beautiful woven texture and gives the shoes a more contemporary, understated feel. What started as a $10 thrift-store find now has a little vintage Bottega Veneta energy — proof that sometimes all a beautiful piece needs is a fresh perspective and a bit of DIY.
