The 2017 Met Gala gown worn by Kendall Jenner, featuring 85,000 crystals attached to a single string, stands as a notable example of Julia Haart’s work as a fashion designer. Before her prominence in global luxury, Haart spent years teaching in the Haredi community and working in insurance, eventually transitioning into the retail sector after leaving her religious upbringing in 2013.
Background and Early Career
Born in Moscow in 1971, Haart moved to Austin, United States, at age three, later relocating to Monsey. She completed high school at Bais Yaakov Monsey and earned a teaching certificate at Beth Jacob Jerusalem. Following her studies, she taught English and Judaic Studies at various institutions, including Yeshiva Atlanta and Bais Rochel. During this period, she was known by the names Talia Hendler and Talia Leibov.
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In 2013, Haart departed the Haredi community, taking the surname Haart as a derivative of her maiden name, Leibov. She initially entered the industry by founding a namesake shoe company that utilized NASA-developed gel technology for high-heeled footwear. This venture preceded her move into high-end apparel and luxury accessories, setting the stage for her subsequent corporate roles.
Corporate Leadership
Haart served as creative director at La Perla, where she developed stretch Leavers lace and debuted ready-to-wear lingerie. In 2019, she was appointed chief executive officer and chief creative officer of the talent media conglomerate Elite World Group. Her responsibilities included overseeing the brand e1972 and assisting models with the monetization of their professional projects and personal brands.
Public Presence and Recent Ventures
Haart is the subject and executive producer of the Netflix miniseries My Unorthodox Life, which details her departure from her previous community. Beyond her executive duties, she serves on the advisory boards for Emerge America Creative Coalition and the ERA Coalition, and the Board of Directors for the Association for Foreign Press Correspondents USA. In 2023, she launched the shapewear brand +Body by Julia Haart.
Fast facts
- Born: 1971, Moscow
- Citizenship: United States; Russia
- Former name: Talia Hendler
- Creative roles: La Perla, Elite World Group
- Education: Bais Yaakov Monsey, Beth Jacob Jerusalem
- Notable product: 85,000-crystal Met Gala gown
- Current field: Retail & Consumer
- Religion: Judaism
Questions readers ask
What is the origin of the surname Haart?
It is derived from her maiden name, Leibov, which is similar to the Hebrew word Lev, meaning heart.
Which companies has Julia Haart managed?
She has held leadership roles at La Perla as creative director and at Elite World Group as CEO and chief creative officer.
Achievements
- Affiliated with La Perla and Elite Model Management
