From Hiding in Long Sleeves to Embracing Lingerie: My Unorthodox Journey

When you think of long sleeves, what comes to mind? Modesty, perhaps, or maybe a desire to cover up imperfections. Long sleeves have long been associated with conservative fashion choices, often worn to hide one's body and avoid drawing attention. But for me, long sleeves became more than just a fashion statement – they became a security blanket.

My journey towards embracing my body and breaking free from the confines of long sleeves began in childhood. Growing up, I was always taller and curvier than my peers. While others wore cute dresses and short sleeves, I found comfort in long sleeves that concealed my insecurities.

As a teenager, I became increasingly aware of societal beauty standards that seemed unattainable for someone like me. Magazines and media bombarded me with images of flawless bodies, leaving me feeling inadequate and desperate for acceptance.

Brazen: My Unorthodox Journey from Long Sleeves to Lingerie

by Julia Haart(Kindle Edition)

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	27616 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	409 pages

FREE

But everything changed when I stumbled upon the world of lingerie. At first, it was just a small spark of curiosity that led me to explore what had always been considered a taboo subject. I started reading articles, browsing online stores, and immersing myself in the world of intimate apparel.

One particular lingerie brand caught my eye. Their designs were bold, provocative, and empowering. They showcased women of all shapes and sizes, celebrating their individuality instead of conforming to unrealistic standards. It was refreshing to see lingerie as a tool for self-expression rather than a means of objectification.

Discovering my Inner Confidence

Slowly but surely, I dipped my toes into the world of lingerie. I started with a simple black lace bralette that peeked out beneath my long sleeves. The feeling of empowerment it gave me was undeniable. It was as if I was reclaiming control over my own body, shedding the layers of shame and insecurity that had held me back for so long.

With each new lingerie purchase, my confidence grew stronger. I experimented with different styles, from delicate babydolls to daring corsets. I indulged in vibrant colors and intricate designs, feeling beautiful and liberated in each piece.

But my journey was not without its challenges. Society, unfortunately, still clings to traditional notions of modesty and shames women for embracing their sensuality. I faced criticism and judgment from those around me, questioning why a woman like me, who was once so reserved, would suddenly start wearing lingerie.

Over time, I learned to ignore the naysayers and focus on my own happiness. Lingerie became more than just a fashion choice – it became a symbol of self-acceptance and body positivity. I no longer felt the need to hide my curves behind long sleeves. Instead, I embraced them, celebrating my unique beauty.

Breaking Free from Societal Constraints

My journey from long sleeves to lingerie taught me an important lesson – that societal norms do not define my worth. I no longer feel the need to conform to other people's expectations. I choose to dress for myself, regardless of what others may think.

That being said, lingerie is not just about appearance. It is about feeling comfortable and empowered in your own skin. It is about embracing your sensuality and celebrating the beauty of your body. Every individual has the right to explore their own journey towards self-acceptance and find what makes them feel their best.

Today, I proudly step out in an array of lingerie styles, no longer hiding behind long sleeves. I am grateful for the unorthodox journey that led me to this point, as it has taught me invaluable lessons about self-love and challenging societal constraints.

So, to anyone out there who may be hiding behind long sleeves, I encourage you to take a leap of faith. Explore the world of lingerie and discover the power it holds – the power to embrace your body, boost your confidence, and rewrite your narrative. Your journey may be unorthodox, but it will be worth it.

Brazen: My Unorthodox Journey from Long Sleeves to Lingerie

by Julia Haart(Kindle Edition)

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	27616 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	409 pages

FREE

WALL STREET JOURNAL AND USA TODAY BESTSELLER • From the star of the Netflix reality series My Unorthodox Life,a riveting, inspiring memoir of one woman’s escape from an extremist religious sect and an extraordinary rise from housewife to shoe designer, to CEO and co-owner of the modeling agency Elite World Group

“An irresistible read . . . Written with great intensity and rare candor, Brazen is a story of longing for more and manifesting that vision.”—Tommy Hilfiger

Ever since she was a child, every aspect of Julia Haart’s life—what she wore, what she ate, what she thought—was controlled by the dictates of ultra-Orthodox Judaism. At nineteen, after a lifetime spent caring for her seven younger siblings, she was married off to a man she barely knew. For the next twenty-three years, her marriage would rule her life. Eventually, when Haart’s younger daughter, Miriam, started to innocently question why she wasn’t allowed to sing in public, run in shorts, or ride a bike without being covered from neck to knee, Haart reached a breaking point. She knew that if she didn’t find a way to leave, her daughters would be forced into the same unending servitude that had imprisoned her.

So Haart created a double life. In the ultra-Orthodox world, clothing has one purpose—to cover the body, head to toe—and giving any thought to one’s appearance beyond that is considered sinful, an affront to God. But when no one was looking, Haart would pore over fashion magazines and sketch designs for the clothes she dreamed about wearing in the world beyond her Orthodox suburb. She started preparing for her escape by educating herself and creating a “freedom” fund. At the age of forty-two, she finally mustered the courage to flee the fundamentalist life that was strangling her soul.

Within a week of her escape, Haart founded a shoe brand, and within nine months, she was at Paris Fashion Week. Just a few years later, she was named creative director of La Perla. Soon she would become co-owner and CEO of Elite World Group, and one of the most powerful people in the fashion industry. Along the way, her four children—Batsheva, Shlomo, Miriam, and Aron—have not only accepted but embraced her transformation.

Propulsive and unforgettable, Haart’s story is the journey from a world of no to a world of yes, and an inspiration for women everywhere to find their freedom, their purpose, and their voice.