Introduction
Julia Haart is a name that has become synonymous with reinvention, empowerment, and the pursuit of freedom. From growing up in a strict Ultra‑Orthodox Jewish community to becoming a leading fashion designer, entrepreneur, and Netflix reality star, Julia’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. As the star of the popular Netflix series My Unorthodox Life, Julia has captivated audiences with her story of personal transformation, business success, and the pursuit of independence.
A Bold Beginning: Early Life and Religious Upbringing
Julia Haart was born on April 11, 1971, in Moscow, Russia. At the age of three, she moved to the United States with her family and grew up in a Haredi (Ultra-Orthodox Jewish) community in Monsey, New York. Raised in a world defined by strict religious practices, she was surrounded by a life that revolved around faith and tradition. Julia’s childhood was shaped by the intense rules and expectations of the community, where women were often confined to traditional roles centered around family and religious observance.
Despite the rigid environment, Julia exhibited a desire for freedom and independence from an early age. However, it wasn’t until 2013, at the age of 42, that Julia made the brave decision to leave her community and pursue a life outside the constraints of her upbringing. This moment of liberation marked the beginning of her journey toward self‑empowerment and success in the world of fashion and business.
Julia Haart From Ultra‑Orthodox to Fashion Entrepreneur
After leaving the ultra‑Orthodox community, Julia reinvented herself as a fashion designer and entrepreneur. The first step in her transformation was a venture into the world of luxury fashion, where she began to build her career from the ground up.
Julia’s first significant success came when she was appointed Creative Director at La Perla, the renowned Italian lingerie brand. There, she used her talent to breathe new life into the brand, designing collections that were both luxurious and empowering. Her time at La Perla helped solidify her reputation as a talented designer and visionary in the fashion industry. Julia later went on to launch her own fashion brand, Body by Julia, which focuses on body positivity, inclusivity, and comfort in women’s shapewear. The brand reflects her commitment to celebrating the diversity of women’s bodies and ensuring they feel confident in their own skin.
Her work in fashion has been revolutionary in many ways, and Julia’s success is a testament to her resilience and her ability to challenge the norms of both her past and the fashion world itself.
Julia Haart Becoming a TV Star: My Unorthodox Life
While Julia’s business ventures were impressive, it was her appearance on Netflix’s My Unorthodox Life that truly brought her into the global spotlight. The reality series debuted in 2021 and follows Julia’s life as she navigates the challenges of leaving a strict religious community and embracing a new life of independence and success. Through the show, audiences were introduced to her four children — Batsheva, Shlomo, Miriam, and Aron — who, like their mother, are navigating life outside the constraints of their previous religious life. The series provided a rare and intimate look into Julia’s transformation and the impact of her decision on her family and career.
In the show, Julia is portrayed not only as a successful businesswoman but also as a loving mother and passionate advocate for women’s freedom. My Unorthodox Life struck a chord with viewers who were captivated by Julia’s boldness, entrepreneurial spirit, and the challenges she faced in rebuilding her life.
Julia Haart Entrepreneurial Success and Body Positivity
Julia’s business ventures go beyond fashion design. She has built a brand that empowers women to embrace their bodies, challenges industry standards, and fosters inclusivity. Her line, Body by Julia, which includes shapewear and other fashion pieces, is centered around comfort and empowerment for women of all shapes and sizes. Her designs celebrate diversity and offer women options that make them feel beautiful and confident.
Her fashion empire is not only about selling clothes — it’s about changing the way women view themselves. Julia’s efforts to create clothing that fits and flatters a wide range of body types reflect her belief that all women deserve to feel comfortable and confident in their own skin.
Julia Haart Legal Battles and Personal Struggles
Julia’s journey has not been without its challenges. In addition to her personal transformation, Julia has also been involved in legal battles, particularly after her divorce from Silvio Scaglia, an entrepreneur and business partner with whom she co‑owned Elite World Group. The divorce was highly publicized and involved complex negotiations over business ownership and personal assets.
Despite these personal setbacks, Julia has remained focused on her goals and continues to work toward expanding her influence in the business world. She has built a legacy of empowerment and resilience, refusing to let her struggles define her.
Julia Haart Personal Life: Family and Relationships
Julia is a devoted mother to her four children. Her journey to independence has been closely tied to her desire to offer them the opportunity to live a life free from the constraints she once faced. Her relationship with her children is central to her story, and she has often spoken about the importance of empowering them to make their own choices and live life on their own terms.
Julia has been married twice. Her first marriage was to Yosef Hendler, with whom she had her children. Later, she married Silvio Scaglia in 2019, but the marriage ended in divorce following a tumultuous legal battle. Despite the challenges she has faced in her personal life, Julia has remained a positive role model for her children and fans alike.
Julia Haart Social Media and Public Influence
Julia Haart maintains an active presence on social media, where she shares insights into her personal life, fashion endeavors, and business ventures. Her Instagram (@juliahaart) showcases her work, personal style, and moments of family life, offering a behind‑the‑scenes look at her journey. Her candidness and openness have made her a relatable figure for many who admire her resilience and determination.
What’s Next for Julia Haart?
As of 2025, Julia continues to expand her business empire, promote her fashion line Body by Julia, and work on her various media projects. Her influence as a fashion leader and women’s advocate is growing, and she is committed to empowering women through both her entrepreneurial efforts and her personal story of transformation.
Julia’s journey is far from over. As she continues to push boundaries in both fashion and business, she remains a powerful symbol of personal reinvention and the freedom to live authentically.
Conclusion
Julia Haart’s life story is one of courage, strength, and reinvention. From leaving the constraints of an ultra‑Orthodox Jewish community to becoming a global fashion leader and media sensation, Julia has built a legacy of resilience and empowerment. Through her entrepreneurial ventures, her reality TV show, and her advocacy for body positivity and women’s independence, Julia Haart continues to inspire others to live boldly and embrace their true selves.
Her journey reminds us that it is never too late to reinvent ourselves, and that we have the power to change our lives — no matter the obstacles in our way.