Louise Trotter has never been one for theatrics. Instead, her influence is measured in precision, quiet but impactful, always anchored in craftsmanship. Born in Sunderland, England, she has spent her career refining the DNA of storied fashion houses, proving that design does not need to shout to make an impression.
Her first major move came at Joseph, where she spent nearly a decade shaping the brand’s modern identity. As creative director from 2009 to 2018, she perfected a language of understated luxury with fluid tailoring, restrained palettes, and a sharp eye for proportion. Under her direction, Joseph became a destination for those who value nuance over novelty, where refinement spoke louder than embellishment.
In 2018, Trotter made history as the first female creative director of Lacoste, bringing an unexpected edge to the brand’s signature sportswear. She took the polo shirt, already a classic, and reimagined it through a more elevated lens, expanding its relevance without losing sight of its origins. Her tenure introduced streamlined silhouettes, innovative fabrications, and collaborations that subtly redefined what a heritage brand could be.
Her next chapter unfolded at Carven, where she was appointed creative director in 2023 with the task of reviving the nearly century-old Parisian house. Her approach focused on sculptural outerwear, pragmatic elegance, and a stripped-back femininity that felt right for the moment. In just three seasons, she laid the groundwork for a more focused and modern Carven, embracing its past without being trapped by it.
In January 2025, Trotter will officially step into her new role as creative director of Bottega Veneta, succeeding Matthieu Blazy. The appointment signals a shift, not a radical departure, but a refined recalibration of the house’s vision. “The House’s storied legacy of artistry and innovation is truly inspiring, and I am excited to contribute to its future and celebrate its timeless vision,” she once shared.
Bottega Veneta CEO Leo Rongone has emphasized that her ability to merge design with craftsmanship makes her a natural fit for the brand’s next phase. Throughout her career, from Joseph to Lacoste to Carven, she has remained unwavering in her approach, prioritizing timelessness over trend-driven fashion and construction over decoration.
Trotter has never been about excess. “I like things to be practical and useful and beautiful at the same time,” she once said. At Bottega Veneta, this ethos will likely translate into something subtle yet significant. Her debut collection will be a moment to watch, not for shock value, but for the kind of quiet luxury that lingers long after the runway lights fade.
