Fashion Boutique Revives Historic Kapulsky Name

Ninety years after its founding, the Kapulsky family name, once synonymous with a beloved Israeli patisserie chain, is making a comeback in the fashion world. Aviv Kapulsky, a fifth-generation descendant of the original founders, has opened KAPULSKY, a fashion and lifestyle boutique in Tel Aviv's Neve Tzedek neighborhood.

The original Kapulsky patisserie was established in Tel Aviv in 1934 by brothers Zelik and Akiva Kapulsky, evolving into the first Hebrew coffeehouse chain in 1945. While the younger generation, particularly Gen Z, may not recall the brand's heyday in the 1980s and 90s, Aviv Kapulsky aims to leverage the nostalgic resonance of the family name.

Located on Shabazi Street, the boutique offers a curated selection of international fashion brands, contemporary streetwear, and designer pieces, including Kith, CARAVANA, AMI Paris, On Cloud, Stone Island, and Jacquemus. The space also features unique lifestyle and skincare products, and notably, a women's hair salon operated by Aviv's partner, Roai Daniel. While the focus is primarily on men's fashion, women's items are also available.

Kapulsky drew inspiration from his childhood and his great-aunt, Bianca Mikulinsky, a prominent fashion personality known as 'Grandma Chic.' He learned about style, sales, and service from her, emphasizing the importance of hard work and perseverance. He also gained professional experience at high-end fashion houses like Amore Boutique and Factory 54.

The original Kapulsky food business largely closed in the early 2000s due to competition, though it briefly reappeared online and with a single branch in Netanya in 2018. Aviv Kapulsky, who did not actively participate in the food business, plans to eventually reintroduce culinary elements, starting with a 'vintage Kapulsky' coffee cart within the boutique, utilizing original recipes. He aspires to expand the boutique concept to multiple locations across Israel.

The boutique has already attracted a clientele of celebrities, including Dorin Atias, Liron Weizman, Adva Dedon, and actor Yadin Gellan. New collections from brands like Loewe, Maison Margiela, Nili Lotan, and Jacquemus are expected to arrive in late October or early November.