At 73, Israeli–American designer Elie Tahari — long celebrated as a symbol of ambition and elegance for working women — gave fashion a deeper purpose. His latest runway show in Miami featured female IDF soldiers, including wounded veterans, modeling his new collection with pride and resilience.
From Heartbreak to Inspiration
Tahari, who was born in Jerusalem to an Iranian–Jewish family, says the inspiration came after the October 7 Hamas attacks.
“I was watching the news,” he told Daily Mail. “I cried for days. The violence was unbearable — children, women, families. It broke my heart. I wanted to do something that meant peace.”
Supporting Wounded Soldiers
The designer’s personal connection to Israel’s soldiers runs deep. His compassion began when his friend Eli Shakell — a wounded IDF veteran — stayed with him in New York.
“I asked how I could help,” Tahari said. “He told me, ‘They have no clothes.’ So I started dressing them. Some sent me videos in the dark because they were ashamed — missing arms, legs, eyes. It affected me deeply.”
Having once served in the Israeli military himself, Tahari recalled his own hardships. “When I was a soldier, we had no money, no comfort, nothing. That’s why I want to give them dignity through clothing.”
The Miami Show
The show, held at St. Thomas University, was entirely volunteer-run. “No one did it for money,” Tahari said. “Every model, every worker — they did it from the heart.”
Among them were wounded veterans, including First Lieutenant Eden Ram, who survived after being shot 12 times, and former soldier Dvorah Lea Bart, who proudly walked the runway in Tahari’s designs.
“They are all beautiful — inside and out,” Tahari said. “That’s the point.”
Fashion as Empowerment
Event organizer Tobi Rubinstein described the show as a “runway of meaning.”
“Each design reflects not only Tahari’s artistry but the courage of Israel’s women soldiers,” she said. “Fashion becomes a language of gratitude, empowerment, and unity.”
Tahari pledged to donate a portion of profits from his online business to support wounded Israeli soldiers. “Every piece I sell helps provide clothes and financial support for these women,” he said.
A Message of Peace
Despite the pain that inspired it, the show carried a hopeful message.
“I am a man of peace,” Tahari said. “We celebrate women whose bravery reminds us that beauty is also strength.”
Fourteen women — including college students, professional models, and two IDF veterans — walked the Miami runway, proving that courage can be as powerful as couture.
