Gottex
Israel
Gottex is an Israeli designer and manufacturer of swimwear founded in Tel Aviv in 1956 by Lea Gottlieb. Wikipedia reports that Lev Leviev's Africa-Israel Group acquired it in 1997.
| Founded | 1956 |
|---|---|
| Founder | Lea Gottlieb |
| Headquarters | Tel Aviv, Israel |
| 1997 | Acquired by Lev Leviev (Africa-Israel Group) |
| Segment | Lingerie, swimwear and hosiery |
What is Gottex?
Gottex is an Israeli swimwear brand founded in 1956 in Tel Aviv by Lea Gottlieb, a former raincoat manufacturer. Gottlieb envisioned collections that could be worn from the pool to the bar, and then to restaurants or cocktail parties.
History
Wikipedia reports that Gottex was the first manufacturer to introduce spandex and that it pioneered swimsuits with hard-cup bras. It was named America's top swimsuit import in 1993, and its swimsuits were worn by public figures in the 1980s, including Diana, Princess of Wales, and Elizabeth Taylor. In 1997 Lev Leviev of the Africa-Israel Group acquired the company. Gottlieb continued to lead the design team for another year before leaving to start her own fashion company. The article notes that its coverage of the period from 1999 to 2025 needs updating.
Products and positioning
- Swimwear: swimsuits, including hard-cup styles
- Beach fashion: caftans, tunics and trousers combining swimwear and beachwear
- Other lines: men's and children's swimwear, bed linens, towels and drapes
Business model and distribution
The brand sells through department stores and wholesale partners. Wikipedia cites Nordstrom as a retailer in the context of a 2025 dispute, in which the creator Cassey Ho alleged that a Gottex skort sold there may have infringed her skort design and patents. Gottex responded by threatening legal action if she pursued further allegations.
Why it matters
Gottex is among the best-known swimwear names to have come from Israel and a long-standing presence in the international designer swimwear market. Its current ownership is not confirmed by the source used here, and the 1997 acquisition is the latest ownership event documented.
Frequently asked questions
Who owns Gottex?
According to Wikipedia, Lev Leviev of the Africa-Israel Group acquired Gottex in 1997. Later ownership is not confirmed by the source used.
Where is Gottex from?
Gottex is from Israel. It was founded in Tel Aviv in 1956 by Lea Gottlieb.