Our friends at Dreed*Tea were at the Tel Aviv Fashion Week scene and bring us their recap of all the designers there…
This was a very important benchmark for Israel, and is the first big step to put Israel on the fashion map– it’s the first International fashion show in 30 years! Foreign press was also on the scene as well as special guest, Italian designer Roberto Cavalli. The event was held in conjunction with the Israeli Ministry of Tourism and reporters and special guests took guided tour’s of Israel’s beautiful and historical cities.
The Tel Aviv Fashion Week (TLVFW) took place Nov 21-23, 2011 in a grand marquee behind The Station (HaTachana), Tel Aviv’s new retail area occupying the beautifully restored British Empire train station. Through TLVFW, Israeli fashion designers had the opportunity to showcase their talent and creativity to the international community.
The event was headed by Mr. Ofir Lev, Founder and CEO, TLVFW and General Manager of the Israel Textile Fashion Association along with Moti Reif who initiated the organization of the Foreign Press.
Yaniv Persy
One could clearly see the Parisian influences in this young designer’s creations. The mostly black and leather collection had classic lines with angular modern twists. This Fall 2012/13 line is very in tune with general S&M trend.
Yossef
His avant guard style rocked the runway – literally! The prints and rocker inspirations were there – but so was a softer side. The white dresses were light and billowy, they fit the female form perfectly without restricting it, and had just enough of punch to remain unequivocally – Yossef.
Roberto Cavalli
His Spring/Summer 2012 Collection was superb! Best described as bohemian rocker meets sophisticated socialite, it featured flowing dresses and tailored separates. True to his signature style, there was lots of sequins, prints, and feathers. His stunning white dresses embellished with sparkle and feathers really stole the show, and signaled another trend carried over from seasons past.
Pas Pour Toi
Designer Dorit Bar Or, presented a pretty all black collection of cocktail and evening wear with delicate gold and black beading. It was a bit of a throw-back to the late 80′s and early 90′s that have been coming back in style, but without the loud colors it felt a bit underwhelming. The intricate, Middle Eastern inspired hand-sewn beading was beautiful, but sadly Dorit did not add anything new or inventive to the exciting looks of that era.
Gideon Oberson
He presented a stunning, streamlined black and white collection that let the geometric details such as folds, cut-outs, neck lines, and weaves take center stage. One would not call it minimal but it was understated in a beautiful and unusual way. The slicked back hair and dramatic eye makeup added to the striking presentation. He was our favorite of the day.
Upcoming Designers
10 promising up and coming designers showed their small collections in this important presentation. One of them was chosen by an international committee of experts to receive international support / exposure and a show at Italian fashion week. The star of this show was Israel Ohayan, his creations were reminiscent of Alexander McQueen and stood out against more conventional collections shown throughout the week. The muted color tones really let the architectural designs and the precise detailing and construction shine.
Ishtar
The models were sent down the runway barefoot, which was a welcomed change of pace. Her collection was inspired by the craftsmanship & heritage of the Middle East and was dominated by every shade of white in beautiful Damascus brocades, silks and Egyptian cottons. Her head pieces were delicate and stunning – in stark contract to the previous show. It was earthy, feminine, elegant, and timeless!
Shenkar Designers
8 outstanding Shenkar students, from different class levels and varying styles presented their small collections in this combined show. It was a highly anticipated production, as everyone was curious of what to expect from the next generation of Israeli fashion design. The students presented striking pieces that went above and beyond all expectations! There were delicate lace dresses, dramatic velvet creations, silk stunners and elusive knitted designs.
Alon Livne
The glitterati turned out in full force for the closing event of the TLVFW! The Spring/Summer 2012 collection of 40 looks drew inspiration from the Victorian era.
The craftsmanship was impeccable, the gold embroidery was dazzling, and the fabrics were some of the silkiest and lightest we saw all week long.
Israel Gay Youth
This was an event held to help raise money for the Israeli Gay Youth organization. Various designers donated their cloths to help raise funds. It was a fun runway show and an exciting party. This was not about the fashion but about helping out those who need it.
Many more designers collections were on the runway, click through to Dreed*Tea’s full report!