10 Questions with Arava Polak
Creative Director Arava Polak
1) Tell us a bit about yourself, where are you located and how did you get into designing bridal?
I was interested in fashion from a very young age, especially dresses and dressmaking. This led naturally to an interest in bridal. I was drawn to the idea of creating something unique and meaningful. I ended up attending Wizo Academy of Design and specializing in luxury and bridal. From there it felt right to begin Arava Polak and open the atelier in Haifa, where we are still based today.
2) How would you describe the design aesthetic of your brand?
We are known for a feminine, romantic, sophisticated, and modern style with clean line and silhouette. Our use of lace and texture are a signature of the brand. Each gown is crafted using meticulous handmade practices from local artisans.
3) What is unique about how the collection is put together?
My design process is centered around the bride. She is modern and isn’t afraid to stand out. But, she still wants somewhat of a classic look. On her wedding day she wants to look and feel like the best version of herself. That central idea guides my inspiration and the collection themes.
4) Tell us about the fabrics and embroideries that you use?
We use the finest fabrics and expert artisanal techniques. Hand-embroidered laces and subtle floral motifs impart texture. Nude and ivory hues, lightweight silks and the use of transparency create that light, ethereal and romantic look that is so central to my designs. When the fabrics meet a clean, minimalist silhouette, the result is feminine without being frilly or fussy.
5) What is the inspiration for F/W 2026?
The Fall 2026 collection was inspired by the elegance and harmony of French Gardens, landscapes defined by symmetry and attention to detail. The name Lueur Secréte means “Secret Glow”, a reference to each bride’s unique inner beauty. We shot the collection at a beautiful estate in Paris which served as the perfect backdrop for the concept.
6) Where do you like to draw your inspiration from?
I find inspiration from just about anything – an exquisite lace pattern, a gorgeous garden, a beautiful painting or a gown from past decades. Something catches my eye and I incorporate a fragment, a mood, a motif into my designs. Every collection is conceived around a central theme which serves as the main inspiration for that season.
7) What is the best-selling look, or do you have an iconic Arava Polak style?
Our lace dresses are our definitely our signature! If I had to choose a few styles, Arielle and Felia are very popular.
8) Do you design for the bride any differently since you began your business?
My style hasn’t changed, but Arava Polak has taken on a life of itself. The voice of the brand has definitely been strengthened over time. Our dresses are classic, but they are also of the moment, each collection has its own twist and what brides are looking for shifts naturally over time. Despite these changes, we have always kept our core design philosophy, our signatures remain the same.
9) What is your favorite part of the design process?
I love the moment where you can see the dress transformed from concept sketch to reality — the moment where everything comes together! Every gown is unique, it carries a piece of myself in it, like a garden you tend to and over time, watch the flowers begin to bloom.
10) Do you personally attend trunk shows?
We are doing trunk shows all over the U.S.