Designist Dream

Eight days left until Hanukkah and four incredible gift ideas at your disposal:
(from top left, clockwise)

Tell your man he’s electrifying with this cityscape-inspired tee from Israeli clothing designers 220VOLT. Ironically, I’ve seen more of these electricity poles in the US than I have in Israel, but trust Tel Aviv artists to make street fashion here universally understood – somehow. Available here on etsy.

Does your woman go to market? Or maybe just to work? Then this handcrafted lush “cinnamon” leather handbag from Israeli handbag designers Kissim offers a delightful alternative to the boring standard briefcase straight from Tel Aviv’s burgeoning fashion district, Gan HaHashmal or Electric Garden. But don’t be fooled by its old school, market-basket shape or its perfectly-aged leather, because this bag is totally modern, replete with inside zips and compartments for documents and even a cellphone pocket! Available here.

Your kid may really be the next Picasso with these adorable ‘Doodle Dolls’ by Israeli children’s toy company Manuella. Meirav Flam, the Israeli designer behind the company, strives to create children’s toys that recall simpler times, where quality stemmed from that perfect combination of attention to detail and simplicity. Each cloth boy or girl Doodle Doll comes with a set of washable markers for your tikes to scribble themselves a new playmate. Just think of the imaginary posse potential! Available here.

Nothing beats a gift that bears a personal touch, especially when it matches the colors of one’s home. This set of four “H-O-M-E’” hand-crafted clay magnets make a beautiful and simple addition to one’s kitchen refrigerator. Each is stamped and painted by Israeli artist Rafya who also offers the option of customizing the magnet set to your color choice. It’s the perfect gift for a holiday dinner party host or an office buddy who you just don’t know so well but want to get something classy. Available here on etsy.