In Conversation with Gal Yakobovitch

Tell us about your background:

My name is Gal Yakobovitch, an Israeli-born, NYC-based fashion designer with a focus on sustainable design. I hold a BFA from Parsons School of Design, where I was honored as the Designer of the Year in Fashion and Technology for my thesis collection. This pivotal project set me on the path toward sustainable material development, with an emphasis on creating textiles that push the boundaries of what fashion can offer in terms of eco-conscious practices.

One of my early ventures involved developing biomaterial textiles, where I focused on creating biodegradable alternatives to leathers and plastics used in fashion. In 2019, I developed a sustainable leather alternative for a project with Luxirity Lane Crawford (HK) and a bio-rubber coating made from discarded milk for a project in collaboration with the bioFASHIONtech lab (CT). These experiences allowed me to engage deeply with the intersection of science and fashion, presenting my work at international platforms like Dutch Design Week and Munich Fabric Start. Most recently, I created and launched MATNAS, a unisex clothing brand that presented a new system for local sustainable small-batch manufacturing from textile waste. MATNAS focused on utilizing this textile waste (from reconstructing secondhand clothing to incorporating factory off-cuts) to create unique and repeatable styles, showing the possibility for scalability. My goal with MATNAS was to not only produce responsibly but also to challenge conventional fashion systems by offering an alternative model for upcycling clothing. Through this venture, I worked to combine ethical production with designs that could speak to a wide audience while maintaining a commitment to reducing waste.

I am passionate about sharing knowledge and promoting sustainable design practices. Throughout the years, I have had the pleasure of guest lecturing and critiquing at institutions such as Parsons, Bezalel Academy, and Genspace Community Lab. Through my brand MATNAS, I have developed and led numerous workshops focused on teaching DIY sustainable techniques. These workshops aim to provide hands-on, practical experiences, empowering my audience to engage with sustainable fashion on a personal level.

What do you wish you’d known when you started out?

Looking back, I wish I had pushed myself earlier to gain experience beyond just design. I had the opportunity to intern for Nili Lotan as a design intern, which was an incredible environment to refine my design sensibilities. However, when I later opened MATNAS, I realized how important it would have been to familiarize myself with other crucial aspects of running a fashion business—things like the technical side of production, merchandising, and effectively communicating with factories. These experiences would have provided a more well-rounded foundation for building my own brand from the ground up.

Best career advice you've ever received?

Don't be afraid to stray from the typical path. There's often great value in taking a non-linear approach to both problem-solving and career development. Keep moving forward, even when you're unsure if or how something will advance your progress—trust the process and let it guide you. Along the way, being resourceful and adaptable is crucial. These skills help you navigate uncertainty and discover opportunities in unexpected places.

What leadership qualities are important to you?

I see great value in maintaining a positive, "anything is possible" attitude. I find it beneficial for a leader to foster an environment where challenges are seen as opportunities and where optimism drives progress. Equally crucial is being organized and having a clear plan of action, ensuring that there’s structure and direction in the pursuit of goals. However, flexibility is key—circumstances can change, and it’s good to have an adaptable attitude.

What has been the biggest challenge in your career so far?

COVID-19 had a pretty big impact on my career. Before the pandemic, I was living in New York, taking full advantage of the city's resources, and gaining recognition for my work in biodesign. When I had to return to Israel, it felt like everything came to a halt. It was initially devastating to feel cut off from the path I had been pursuing, but I quickly adapted. I found new purpose by shifting my focus to addressing Israel's local textile waste problem, a site-specific issue that my work could directly impact. This experience taught me the value of adaptability and resilience in the face of unexpected challenges.

And for fun, what is your favorite wardrobe staple?

I have many favorite pieces in my wardrobe, mainly because I’m fortunate enough to make a lot of the clothes I own. I also have items from designer friends that I absolutely adore. However, my most prized possession would be my grandfather’s trench coat, which he passed down to me. I’ve been wearing and repairing it for years, and it holds a special place in my wardrobe.

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gabriela-navejas-a25631b

Website: https://www.galyakobovitch.com/

Instagram: @__matnas__