Have you heard about Julia Haart? She’s an incredible woman who made a bold leap from an ultra-Orthodox Jewish community to becoming a powerhouse in the fashion and entertainment industry. You might recognize her from the Netflix show *My Unorthodox Life*, where she shares her fascinating journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Julia didn’t just leave behind a restrictive lifestyle—she reinvented herself completely. Starting as a shoe designer, she quickly rose to prominence, eventually becoming the CEO of Elite World Group, one of the largest talent management companies in the world. What’s really inspiring about Julia is how she champions freedom and individuality, not just in her own life but also by helping others build their personal brands. Her story is all about breaking barriers and redefining what it means to live authentically. Trust me, if you haven’t dived into her world yet, you’re missing out!
Who is Julia Haart?
Julia Haart is a dynamic figure in the fashion and business world, known for her remarkable journey from an ultra-Orthodox Jewish upbringing to becoming a global entrepreneur and reality TV star. Born Talia Leib on April 11, 1971, in Moscow, Russia, she was raised in a strict religious community in Monsey, New York. For much of her early life, she adhered to the rigid expectations of her faith, but in her early 40s, she made the life-altering decision to leave that world behind.
In 2013, Julia launched her own shoe brand, known for blending style with comfort, which marked the beginning of her transformation. Her talent and drive soon led her to La Perla, a luxury lingerie brand, where she became Creative Director in 2016. Her work there, including the design of La Perla’s first ready-to-wear collection, garnered significant attention.
In 2019, Julia took on the role of CEO at Elite World Group, a leading talent management company. Her leadership has focused on empowering talent to build their personal brands in the digital age. Julia’s story gained widespread recognition through the Netflix series *My Unorthodox Life*, which chronicles her inspiring journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and reinvention.
Julia Haart Wiki
| Name | Julia Haart |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Julia Leibov |
| Age | 53 years old |
| Date of Birth | 11th April 1971 |
| Place of Birth | Moscow, Russia |
| Gender | Female |
| Zodiac Sign | Scorpio |
| Nationality | Russian |
| Religion | Christian |
| Ethnicity | Mixed |
| Education | Graduate |
| Profession | Businesswoman |
| Spouse | Silvio Scaglia, Yosef Hendler (divorced) |
| Famous For | Brand + body shapewear |
| Net Worth | Approx $50 million to $600 million |
Julia Haart Parents & Siblings
Julia Haart was born into a deeply religious family, which played a significant role in shaping her early life. Her parents, whose names are not widely publicized, were members of an ultra-Orthodox Jewish community. This community, rooted in strict adherence to religious laws and traditions, was a central part of her upbringing. The values and expectations of her family and community were traditional, with an emphasis on religious observance, modesty, and adherence to a prescribed way of life.
Julia is the eldest of eight siblings. Growing up in a large family within the tight-knit ultra-Orthodox community of Monsey, New York, Julia was expected to follow a path similar to that of her parents, which included early marriage and a life dedicated to religious and family duties. Her siblings, like her, were raised under the same stringent religious practices.
However, Julia’s path diverged dramatically from her family’s expectations. In her early 40s, she made the bold decision to leave the community, seeking a life of personal freedom and self-expression. This decision marked a significant turning point in her life, and while it strained her relationship with some family members, it also paved the way for her remarkable career and public life.
Julia Haart Nationality, Ethnicity, and Religion
Julia Haart is an American fashion entrepreneur and TV personality. Born in Moscow, Russia, on April 11, 1971, she emigrated to the United States with her family at a young age, growing up in Monsey, New York. Ethnically, she is of Jewish descent. Julia was raised in an ultra-Orthodox Jewish community, adhering to its strict religious practices throughout her early life. However, in her early 40s, she left the ultra-Orthodox community and has since embraced a more secular lifestyle. Despite this, her Jewish heritage remains a significant part of her identity.
Julia Haart Physical Appearance
Julia Haart Age
Julia Haart was born on April 11, 1971, which makes her 53 years old as of 2024. Her journey from an ultra-Orthodox Jewish community to becoming a successful entrepreneur and reality TV star has been a remarkable transformation, gaining widespread recognition through her work and personal story.
Julia Haart Height & Weight
Julia Haart is approximately 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) tall. Her weight is not publicly disclosed, but she is known for maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle, which complements her work in the fashion industry.
Julia Haart Eye & Hair Color
Julia Haart has striking brown eyes and dark brown hair. Her hair is often styled in various fashionable ways, reflecting her background as a fashion designer and entrepreneur. These features contribute to her distinctive presence in the fashion industry and on her Netflix series, My Unorthodox Life.
Julia Haart Body Measurment
Julia Haart’s body measurements are approximately 34-26-36 inches. She is known for her fashion-forward style, often wearing clothing that accentuates her figure. Julia typically wears a dress size of 4 and a shoe size of 8. Her measurements reflect her focus on body positivity and confidence in her fashion line, +Body by Julia Haart.
Julia Haart Educational Background
Julia Haart’s educational journey is a fascinating reflection of her upbringing and subsequent transformation. Born in 1971 in a strict Haredi Jewish community, her early education was deeply influenced by her religious environment.
Early Education
Private Schooling: Julia began her education in a private school in Austin, Texas. As a child, she was often the only Jewish student in her class, which exposed her to a more diverse worldview from an early age. This experience was pivotal in shaping her perspective on education and life outside her community.
Transition to Haredi Community
Move to Monsey: At the age of 11, Julia’s family moved to Monsey, New York, a hub for Haredi Jews. This transition marked a significant shift in her educational experience, as she became immersed in a community that emphasized traditional Jewish values and education.
Bais Yaakov Academy: Julia attended Bais Yaakov Academy, a prominent Jewish girls’ school in Brooklyn. This institution focused on religious studies and provided a curriculum that aligned with Haredi beliefs. Here, Julia received a strong foundation in Jewish teachings, which was typical for girls in her community.
Further Education and Teaching
Seminary in Israel: After graduating from high school, Julia spent a year at a girls’ seminary in Israel. This experience was designed to deepen her religious studies and prepare her for marriage, a common expectation for women in her community. While at the seminary, she also obtained a teaching certificate, which allowed her to pursue a career in education.
Teaching Career: Upon returning to the United States, Julia began teaching English and Judaic Studies at various Jewish schools, including Yeshiva Atlanta in Georgia. Her role as an educator allowed her to share her knowledge and passion for learning with her students, providing her with valuable experience in leadership and communication.
Self-Discovery and Fashion
Sewing and Fashion: Julia’s interest in fashion began at a young age. She taught herself how to sew when she was just 16 years old and often read fashion magazines in secret. This passion for fashion would later become a central aspect of her identity and career.
Breaking Free
Leaving the Community: In 2013, at the age of 42, Julia made the bold decision to leave her ultra-Orthodox community. This choice was driven by her desire for independence, self-expression, and the pursuit of her passion for fashion. Her educational background, combined with her teaching experience, equipped her with the skills and confidence to navigate the challenges of starting anew.
Julia Haart Career
Julia Haart’s career path has been nothing short of extraordinary. Despite facing significant challenges and limitations in her early life, she has risen to become a successful fashion designer, entrepreneur, and media personality. Here is a detailed account of her remarkable career journey:
Early Career in Education
After obtaining a teaching certificate at a seminary in Israel, Haart taught English and Judaic Studies at several Jewish schools throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. She was beloved by her students at Yeshiva Atlanta, where she worked under the name Talia Hendler, and was known for her sharp style.
Leaving the Haredi Community
In 2013, at the age of 42, Haart made the courageous decision to leave her ultra-Orthodox Jewish community. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of her transformation and the start of her career in fashion.
Founding a Shoe Collection
Shortly after leaving her community, Haart launched her own shoe company, Julia Haart, with the goal of creating fashionable and comfortable high heels. She partnered with a ski boot engineer and a German company that creates NASA-approved gel to develop her innovative designs.
Creative Director at La Perla
In 2016, Haart collaborated with the luxury lingerie brand La Perla for their Spring and Fall accessory collections. Later that year, she was named the Creative Director of the brand. At La Perla, Haart created the first stretch Leavers lace and launched a collection of ready-to-wear lingerie with built-in support. Her Fall/Winter 2017 fashion show, “La Perla Manor,” featured top models like Naomi Campbell, Lindsey Wixson, Sasha Pivovarova, and Kendall Jenner.
CEO of Elite World Group
In March 2019, Haart became the chief executive officer and chief creative officer of the talent media conglomerate Elite World Group. This position allowed her to further expand her influence in the fashion industry.
Launching +Body by Julia Haart
Haart’s latest venture is the launch of her body-positive shapewear brand, +Body by Julia Haart. The collection features fashionable pieces designed to provide support without sacrificing comfort, with sizing that combines dress size and bra cup size for a perfect fit. Next season, Haart plans to introduce the first-ever shapewear swimwear collection.
Humanitarian Work and Advocacy
In addition to her fashion endeavors, Haart has been actively involved in humanitarian work and advocacy. She has visited Ukraine with the Halo Trust, opened a women’s shelter in Rwanda, and provided feminine care to women in need. Haart has also been a vocal advocate for women’s rights, meeting with influential figures like Nancy Pelosi and Gloria Steinem.
Julia Haart’s career journey is a testament to her resilience, determination, and innovative spirit. From her early days as an educator to her current status as a fashion mogul and media personality, she has consistently broken barriers and paved the way for others to follow in her footsteps.
Julia Haart Early Life
Julia Haart was born in Moscow in 1971 and moved to Austin, Texas, with her family when she was just three years old. As the eldest of eight children, she often took on a caretaker role within her family. In her early years, she attended a private school where she was the only Jewish student, which provided her with a unique perspective on cultural diversity.
At the age of 11, the family relocated to Monsey, New York, a community known for its large Haredi Jewish population. This move marked a significant shift in her life, as her parents became increasingly religious. Julia attended Bais Yaakov Academy, a Jewish girls’ school in Brooklyn, where she received a traditional education focused on religious studies.
From a young age, Julia developed a passion for fashion; she taught herself to sew at 16 and secretly read fashion magazines. At 19, she married Yosef Hendler, a yeshiva student five years her senior. During her time as a Haredi Jew, Julia faced significant challenges, including strict societal expectations and limitations on personal expression. These experiences ultimately led her to leave the community in 2013, seeking a life of independence and self-fulfillment. This decision would pave the way for her successful career in fashion and entrepreneurship.
Julia Haart Net Worth
Julia Haart’s net worth is estimated to be around $50 million as of recent reports. This figure reflects her successful career as a fashion designer, entrepreneur, and former CEO of Elite World Group, a talent media conglomerate. Haart gained prominence through her innovative ventures in the fashion industry, including her own shoe line and her role as the creative director for the luxury brand La Perla.
Initially, her net worth was reported to be as high as $600 million in 2021, largely due to her rapid rise in the fashion world and her appearances on the Netflix reality series My Unorthodox Life, which chronicles her life after leaving her ultra-Orthodox Jewish community. However, the fluctuations in her personal and professional life, including her divorce from Silvio Scaglia and subsequent legal battles, have contributed to the uncertainty surrounding her financial status.
Haart’s career took off after she founded her namesake shoe company in 2013, focusing on stylish yet comfortable footwear. Her collaboration with La Perla began in 2016, leading to her appointment as the brand’s creative director. In 2019, she became CEO of Elite World Group, where she implemented significant changes to enhance the agency’s operations.
Julia Haart Husband & Kids
Julia Haart has had two significant marriages and is a mother to four children.
First Marriage
Julia’s first marriage was to Yosef Hendler, a yeshiva student, when she was just 19 years old. The couple had four children together: Batsheva, Shlomo, Miriam, and Aron. Batsheva, the eldest, has gained some public attention through her own social media presence. Julia’s marriage to Yosef was deeply rooted in the ultra-Orthodox Jewish community, where traditional roles were emphasized. However, as Julia grew increasingly uncomfortable with the constraints of her lifestyle, particularly regarding the treatment of her daughter Miriam, she decided to leave the community in 2013. This decision ultimately led to her divorce from Yosef, marking a significant turning point in her life as she sought independence and self-fulfillment.
Second Marriage
In July 2019, Julia married Silvio Scaglia, an Italian businessman and the founder of Fastweb. Their relationship was initially portrayed as a partnership built on mutual admiration, with Julia taking on the role of CEO at Scaglia’s company, Elite World Group. However, their marriage faced significant challenges, culminating in a highly publicized and contentious divorce in February 2022. Julia filed for divorce the same day she was dismissed from her position at Elite World Group, and the split involved allegations of emotional abuse and financial disputes.
Despite the turmoil, Julia remains focused on her career and personal growth while navigating motherhood and her evolving identity outside of her previous community. Her experiences as a mother and her relationships have played a significant role in shaping her journey, both personally and professionally.
Julia Haart Biography
Julia Haart, born on April 11, 1971, in Moscow, is an American fashion designer, entrepreneur, and author. Her family immigrated to Austin, Texas, when she was three, and later settled in Monsey, New York, where she became immersed in the Haredi Jewish community. Educated at Bais Yaakov Academy, Julia developed a passion for fashion early on, teaching herself to sew at 16. At 19, she married Yosef Hendler, with whom she had four children. However, Julia faced increasing discomfort with the constraints of her ultra-Orthodox lifestyle, particularly regarding her daughter’s struggles with conformity. In 2013, she made the bold decision to leave her community, adopting the name Julia Haart, symbolizing her new identity.
After her departure, she launched a successful shoe line and became the creative director for the luxury lingerie brand La Perla. In 2019, she was appointed CEO of Elite World Group, a talent media agency. Julia is also the star and executive producer of the Netflix series My Unorthodox Life, which chronicles her journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Recently, she has focused on her body-positive shapewear brand, +Body by Julia Haart, and authored a memoir titled Brazen: My Unorthodox Journey from Long Sleeves to Lingerie, further cementing her status as a leading figure in the fashion industry.
Personal Life and Advocacy
Julia’s personal life has been marked by her advocacy for women’s rights and mental health awareness. She has been actively involved in humanitarian efforts, including providing support to women in Ukraine and Rwanda. Her journey from a restrictive upbringing to a successful career in fashion and media exemplifies her resilience and commitment to empowerment. Julia Haart continues to be a prominent figure in the fashion industry, inspiring others with her story of transformation and independence.
Julia Haart Boyfriend/Relationship Status
Julia Haart is currently navigating her relationship status following her split from estranged husband Silvio Scaglia. As of now, she is single and has expressed her journey into the dating world as both empowering and challenging. After filing for divorce in February 2022, Haart has been open about her experiences with dating apps, something she had never encountered before due to her previous ultra-Orthodox lifestyle.
In the second season of her Netflix series My Unorthodox Life, she explores the complexities of dating after her divorce, including meeting with a matchmaker and creating a dating profile with the help of her daughter, Batsheva. Haart described the process of swiping on dating apps as a significant adjustment, highlighting how it has helped her learn to assert her preferences and say no to potential suitors. Despite her foray into dating, she has confirmed that there is currently no one special in her life.
Meanwhile, Silvio Scaglia has moved on and got engaged to socialite Michelle-Marie Heinemann in October 2022, just months after their separation. Haart has credited her children with providing her support during this tumultuous time, emphasizing the importance of their unconditional love as she embarks on this new chapter in her life
Julia Haart Social Media Accounts
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Interesting Facts About Julia Haart
- Birth and Early Life: Julia Haart was born on April 11, 1971, in Moscow, Russia, and immigrated to the United States with her family at the age of three.
- Cultural Background: She grew up in a Haredi Jewish family, which significantly influenced her early life and values.
- Education: Julia attended Bais Yaakov Academy, a Jewish girls’ school in Brooklyn, New York, and later spent a year at a seminary in Israel.
- First Marriage: At 19, she married Yosef Hendler, a yeshiva student, with whom she had four children: Batsheva, Shlomo, Miriam, and Aron.
- Career Beginnings: Julia began her career as a Judaic Studies teacher and secretly sold life insurance while raising her children.
- Passion for Fashion: She taught herself to sew at 16 and harbored a lifelong passion for fashion, which she pursued after leaving her community.
- Leaving the Community: In 2013, Julia left her ultra-Orthodox community, marking a significant turning point in her life.
- Shoe Line: Shortly after her departure, she founded her own shoe company, Julia Haart, focusing on stylish and comfortable footwear.
- La Perla: Julia became the Creative Director of luxury lingerie brand La Perla in 2016, where she introduced innovative designs.
- Elite World Group: In 2019, she was appointed CEO of Elite World Group, a major talent media conglomerate.
- Television Personality: Julia stars in the Netflix series My Unorthodox Life, which chronicles her journey and challenges after leaving her community.
- Memoir: She published her memoir, Brazen: My Unorthodox Journey from Long Sleeves to Lingerie, in April 2022, detailing her life experiences.
- Advocate for Women: Julia is a strong advocate for women’s rights and empowerment, using her platform to promote equality in the fashion industry.
- Philanthropy: She is involved in various charitable initiatives, focusing on women’s empowerment and humanitarian efforts.
- Current Relationship Status: Julia is currently single after her divorce from Italian entrepreneur Silvio Scaglia, navigating the dating world while focusing on her career and family.
Final Words
Julia Haart’s journey from a strict Haredi upbringing to becoming a prominent fashion designer and entrepreneur is truly inspiring. Her courage to leave her ultra-Orthodox community in pursuit of independence and self-expression has not only transformed her life but also resonated with many seeking to break free from societal constraints. Through her successful ventures, including her shoe line, creative direction at La Perla, and leadership at Elite World Group, she has made a significant impact on the fashion industry.
As a television personality on My Unorthodox Life, Julia shares her story, advocating for women’s empowerment and body positivity. Her memoir, Brazen, further highlights her resilience and determination. Today, as she navigates single life and explores new relationships, Julia continues to inspire others with her authenticity and passion for fashion. Her journey exemplifies the power of reinvention and serves as a beacon of hope for those seeking to embrace their true selves.
FAQs About Julia Haart
Who is Julia Haart?
Julia Haart is an American fashion designer, entrepreneur, and author, known for her remarkable journey from a strict Haredi Jewish upbringing to becoming a prominent figure in the fashion industry. She is the founder of the body-positive shapewear brand +Body by Julia Haart and was previously the CEO of Elite World Group, a talent media agency. Julia gained widespread recognition as the star of the Netflix series My Unorthodox Life, which chronicles her life after leaving her ultra-Orthodox community.
What was Julia Haart’s early life like?
Julia Haart was born on April 11, 1971, in Moscow, Russia, and immigrated to the United States with her family when she was three. Growing up in a Haredi Jewish community in Monsey, New York, she faced strict societal expectations. Despite these constraints, she developed a passion for fashion, teaching herself to sew at 16 and secretly reading fashion magazines. Julia’s upbringing significantly influenced her later decisions and career path.
What prompted Julia Haart to leave her community?
Julia left her ultra-Orthodox community in 2013 after becoming increasingly uncomfortable with the restrictions placed on her and her children, particularly her daughter Miriam. Julia felt that the community’s expectations stifled individuality and self-expression. Her desire for a different life, along with the need to protect her children from similar experiences, ultimately led her to make the bold decision to leave.
What was Julia Haart’s career before fashion?
Before venturing into fashion, Julia worked as a Judaic Studies teacher at various Jewish schools, including Yeshiva Atlanta. She also secretly sold life insurance to support her family while adhering to the expectations of her community. Her teaching career provided her with valuable skills in communication and leadership, which later helped her in her entrepreneurial endeavors.
How did Julia Haart start her fashion career?
After leaving her Haredi community, Julia founded her own shoe company, Julia Haart, aiming to create fashionable yet comfortable high-heeled shoes. She collaborated with a ski boot engineer and a German company specializing in NASA-approved gel to develop her designs. This venture marked the beginning of her successful career in the fashion industry.
What role did Julia Haart have at La Perla?
In 2016, Julia Haart was appointed as the Creative Director of La Perla, a luxury lingerie brand. During her tenure, she introduced innovative designs, including the first stretch Leavers lace and a collection of ready-to-wear lingerie with built-in support. Her work at La Perla helped redefine the brand’s image and expand its offerings, culminating in a successful runway show featuring top models.
What is +Body by Julia Haart?
+Body by Julia Haart is a body-positive shapewear brand launched by Julia to promote inclusivity and self-acceptance in fashion. The collection features technologically advanced shapewear designed to fit a variety of body types, emphasizing comfort and style. Julia’s mission with +Body is to empower individuals to embrace their bodies and feel confident in their skin.
How did Julia Haart gain fame?
Julia gained fame through her appearance on the Netflix series My Unorthodox Life, which premiered in July 2021. The show documents her journey of self-discovery after leaving her ultra-Orthodox community, showcasing her entrepreneurial ventures, family life, and personal struggles. The series resonated with audiences and brought her story to a global platform.
What challenges did Julia Haart face after leaving her community?
After leaving her community, Julia faced numerous challenges, including financial instability, navigating the dating world, and adjusting to a new lifestyle. She also dealt with the emotional toll of leaving behind her former life and the relationships she had within her community. Despite these obstacles, Julia remained determined to build a successful career and create a fulfilling life for herself and her children.
What is Julia Haart’s approach to fashion?
Julia Haart believes in the transformative power of fashion, viewing it as a means of self-expression and empowerment. She champions diversity and inclusivity in the fashion industry, advocating for greater representation of different races, body types, and genders on runways. Her designs often reflect a blend of timeless elegance and modern aesthetics, aiming to make fashion accessible and appealing to a wide audience.
How does Julia Haart engage with her audience?
Julia actively engages with her audience through social media platforms, particularly Instagram, where she shares insights into her life, fashion tips, and updates on her projects. Her online presence allows her to connect with fans and aspiring designers, providing inspiration and encouragement to those looking to pursue their passions.
What philanthropic efforts is Julia Haart involved in?
Julia Haart is committed to philanthropy and has been involved in various charitable initiatives. She advocates for women’s rights and empowerment, supporting organizations that promote equal opportunities and fair working conditions in the fashion industry. Her humanitarian efforts extend globally, reflecting her dedication to making a positive impact beyond the fashion world.
What is Julia Haart’s family life like?
Julia Haart is a devoted mother to four children: Batsheva, Shlomo, Miriam, and Aron. Despite her busy career, she prioritizes family time and values the relationships she has with her children. Julia’s experiences as a mother have significantly influenced her perspective on parenting and her commitment to providing her children with a supportive and nurturing environment.
What are Julia Haart’s future plans?
Julia Haart continues to expand her brand and influence in the fashion industry. She plans to launch new collections under +Body, focusing on body positivity and inclusivity. Additionally, she aims to further develop her media presence, potentially exploring more television projects that highlight her journey and advocacy for women’s empowerment.
How has Julia Haart influenced the fashion industry?
Julia Haart has made a significant impact on the fashion industry by challenging traditional norms and advocating for diversity and inclusivity. Her emphasis on body positivity and self-expression has resonated with many, inspiring a new generation of designers and consumers to embrace their individuality. Julia’s innovative designs and commitment to empowering women continue to shape the future of fashion, making her a prominent figure in the industry.
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