Bottega Veneta's Trailblazing First Design Director Finally Recognized

Black Fashion Archives shines a light on the influential but overlooked career of Edward Buchanan.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Black Fashion Archives offers an in-depth exploration of the career of Edward Buchanan, who is recognized as the first design director at Bottega Veneta - long before the brand's current prominence. At just 26 years old, Buchanan played a pivotal role in shaping Bottega Veneta into the global powerhouse it is today, yet his contributions were largely unacknowledged until recently, when the brand honored the designer in a 2025 campaign.

Why it matters

Buchanan's story is indicative of a larger shift within the fashion industry, as there is a growing demand for recognizing the contributions of Black creatives and designers who have historically been overlooked. By spotlighting Buchanan's legacy, Bottega Veneta has broadened the conversation about visibility, authorship, and remembrance within the industry.

The details

Born in Cleveland, Ohio, Buchanan moved to New York City to attend Parsons School of Design, where he connected with Rodney Patterson, a display designer for Bottega Veneta. In 1995, Buchanan was offered the role of Design Director at Bottega Veneta, becoming the first person of color to hold that position. He went on to stage the brand's first Milan runway show, collaborate with designers like Manuela Morin and Eduardo Wong Vale, and work with high-profile talents like Lauryn Hill and John Galliano. After leaving Bottega Veneta, Buchanan co-founded the label LEFLESH and collaborated with Virgil Abloh at Off-White.

  • In 1995, Buchanan was offered the role of Design Director at Bottega Veneta.
  • Buchanan staged Bottega Veneta's first Milan runway show for Spring/Summer 1999.
  • By the Fall/Winter 2000 show, Buchanan sensed his time at Bottega Veneta was nearing its finish.

The players

Edward Buchanan

A fashion designer recognized as the first design director at Bottega Veneta and the founder of the gender-fluid knitwear label Sansovino 6.

Rodney Patterson

A display designer for Bottega Veneta who connected Buchanan with the brand.

Manuela Morin

A designer who collaborated with Buchanan on shoes for Bottega Veneta.

Eduardo Wong Vale

A designer who collaborated with Buchanan on handbags for Bottega Veneta.

Virgil Abloh

A designer who collaborated with Buchanan at Off-White and acknowledged his technical brilliance and creative integrity.

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What they’re saying

“Buchanan's expertise extends across generations.”

— Virgil Abloh (Black Fashion Archives)

What’s next

Bottega Veneta plans to continue highlighting Buchanan's legacy and contributions to the brand in future campaigns and initiatives.

The takeaway

Edward Buchanan's story is a powerful example of the growing demand for recognizing the contributions of Black creatives and designers who have historically been overlooked in the fashion industry. By spotlighting his legacy, Bottega Veneta has set a precedent for other brands to follow in celebrating the unsung heroes who have shaped the industry.