Israeli Designs: From Tel Aviv Via the Web
Graphic by Angelie Zaslavsky
If you can’t go shopping on Tel Aviv’s Dizengoff Street, Coolil (as in Cool Israel) may be the next best thing.
The recently launched Web site features the wares of 10 Israeli jewelry and leather goods designers. There are tote bags by Efika, clutches by Daniella Lehavi, and etched silver and gold necklaces by Augusta. Many of the labels have had little or no prior exposure stateside.
Jewish-themed gifts on Coolil range from leather-bound books of tehilim, bracelets inscribed with the Shema prayer, and various Hamsa and Star of David necklaces. Diaper bags by Heidi and plush toys by Manuella are also available on the site.
Coolil is the brainchild of Israeli Eran Shor. When Shor moved to New York three years ago, he found himself receiving frequent compliments about the clothing and accessories he had brought with him from Israel. So he made it his mission to bring Israeli designs to the American market — and Coolil was born.
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