Designer Spotlight: Kobi Halperin

About two and a half years ago, my close friend, mentor and major fashionista, Janet Mandell of Fashionaholic took me to Neiman Marcus to meet the Israeli designer, Kobi Halperin. We looked at his then current line (I'll never forget the leopard print wool vest from that collection which I ended up wearing to Fashion week the following September. See it HERE) and were in total awe. Everything was gorgeous and the details? Perfection. It didn't take long until we were all talking fashion, laughing and having a great time. It was clear that Kobi was extremely genuine and absolutely loves what he does. We chatted with him and his lovely wife, Sagit about Kobi's travels, where he draws his inspiration and his history in the fashion world.

His pieces since then have continued to blow me away. If it's possible, I think I love each new collection more than the last. THIS embellished sweater with the feather sleeves caught my eye the first time I saw it on Kobi's instagram story. I paired it with THESE amazing wide leg pleated pants for a elegant yet easy Winter white look.

Now, let me tell you a little about Kobi Halperin. He was born and raised in Israel. Bringing his eastern European roots and heritage into his designs, Kobi creates pieces for women who aspire to elevate their everyday attire. With his unique designs and attention to detail, the amount of workmanship that goes into each piece very evident.  He aims to make women feel great in what they wear and elevate their everyday looks. The mixing of luxury fabrics with sparkling embellishments create pieces of wearable art. By channeling his roots and family history, each of his designs carries a part of him as well. 

Although designing is his first passion, he also mentors at Savannah College of Art and Design. He is on the board of the CFDA and is an extremely involved and loving father to his two daughters, Mika and Gali.

We learned about his history in fashion and family when we all got together for dinner that same night two and a half years ago. We bonded over pasta, talking about our families and Israel. That night, Sagit styled the cardigan I'm wearing below so beautifully and effortlessly. Although I loved Kobi's clothes on the rack, the way she put together her outfit that night absolutely sold me on him as a designer. She looked so chic and completely effortless. Jeans, a t-shirt, beautiful loafers, this cardigan, a sleek bun and small gold hoop earrings, you could tell she felt great and she looked even better. I knew I needed that cardigan after seeing her wear it and I started saving for my first piece by Kobi Halperin. Here, I paired it with simple black overalls, mules and of course, my favorite beanie, also designed by Kobi Halperin.

I have stayed in touch with Kobi, Sagit and their wonderful team since then and feel so lucky to be a part of the Kobi Halperin family. They have dressed me for fashion week and I hosted a super fun event with Kobi a few months back at Neiman Marcus in Chicago. Meeting and getting to work with people like Kobi, Sagit and their lovely director of marketing, Alaina, is a huge reason why I love this job. It’s a true delight to work with such a passionate designer and a team who are just as kind and genuine. I am so very fortunate and grateful!! 

OK! Enough gushing! Here are a few more photos with a current, amazing jacket from his line. You can also shop my featured looks below.

Photos by: Christian Sampson Photography

xx Ali

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