Last week, Israeli designers rallied together for Tel Aviv Fashion Week for the first time in decades. Roberto Cavalli helped kick off the week by presenting his own spring collection. Oddly enough though, they only invited press no buyers. According to the shows' kickstarting organizer Orif Lev, they are not ready to go abroad. The talent for design is there, but independently producing on a large scale is a daunting task in a place that's been focused on many things other than fashion. Perhaps this fashion week incite a worldwide demand for Israeli clothing? Take a look at some designers who sent their models walking.

The challenge they face is producing within their boarders, keeping the business in Israel. Much like in the US, labor is more expensive there, and they lack the resources to fully flourish. Each garment becomes more expensive and and yet the quality suffers. According to Eva Cavalli, Theres also a lot of creativity here, but there has to be more of a focus on techniques and workmanship. That exists here, there is the potential, but it needs to be nurtured. Lev predicts that the Israel should be ready and capable for production in about 2-5 years. Get ready.

[WWD, WIWT]