Newbury St. boutique specializes in Israeli chic

By Susie Davidson

Special to the Advocate

Chances are, Newbury 211 is the only Newbury Street boutique where you will find a former army intelligence officer behind the counter.

But Shosh Tibi has put the ugliness or war far behind her as she and five other Israeli designers offer an array of elegant jewelry, fashions and accessories.

“We are　thrilled about Boston being our first store outside of Israel,” Tibi said. “It is a beautiful city and we believe the people here will be very receptive to our designs.”

Opened just over a month ago, Newbury 211 offers cutting-edge fashions ranging from designer handbags to cocktail dresses. “All our designs　are made by　hand, and a lot of thought, detail　and care go into every piece,” said Tibi.　

The Haifa native became a jewelry designer after leaving the service. “I use various materials, including noble metals and precious gemstones and pearls from around the world,” she said.

Tibi’s store offers Bostonians a window on the Israeli design scene. Luminous amber and sparkling gemstones catch the eye, while the chic clothing, accessories and bags inspire awe. “Israeli woman are considered very fashionable and up-to-date,” said Tibi. There are bustiers that recall Roaring ’20s glitterati, and safety-pin detail that recall late-’70s punk.

Among the other artisans represented at the boutique is Gila Lev, originally from Ashdod, Israel. Even as a child, Lev was already designing her own clothing, even selling items at shops. Since launching her own fashion house in 2005, she has produced 10 collections sold in 40 Israeli boutiques. Newbury 211 has her 11^th collection.　

Jerusalem native Mira Feldman’s jewelry incorporates the natural crystals and semi-precious stones she has found on her world travels. Nirit and Avi Berman, a husband-and-wife team, design their jewelry at their home near the sea of Galilee. They have garnered an international market with their pieces modeled on the flowers unique to their area.

Liraz Rubin, a resident of Binyamina, designs dresses and gowns that are romantic, sensual and bold. Among accoutrements are Swarovski crystals.