Julie Cattaneo is not your average model or chef. With decades of experience in two highly
competitive industries—modeling and the culinary world—she has managed to carve out a niche for
herself, demonstrating incredible versatility and resilience. From being a live model for a beaded
jewelry company to walking the runways of New York Fashion Week, Julie has built a career that
celebrates fashion, sustainability, and women empowerment. Here, we delve into her inspiring
journey, highlighting her unique path and contributions to both the fashion and restaurant
industries.
From Beaded Jewelry to the Fashion Runway: How It All Began
Julie’s career began in 1989, where she first entered the modeling industry as a live model for San
Francisco Jewelry, a company specializing in homemade beaded jewelry. The brand’s trade shows
took her to prominent cities like New York, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and Chicago, where she
showcased exquisite handmade pieces to an eager crowd of jewelry enthusiasts and buyers.
However, modeling was just the beginning. Julie eventually transitioned to the restaurant industry,
where she made a name for herself as a restaurateur. For over 38 years, Julie has run her own Italian
Trattoria, where she serves as the Executive Chef. This switch from the modeling world to the
culinary scene highlights her versatility and passion for various creative outlets.
Rekindling a Passion: Modeling Resurfaces in 2021
During the COVID-19 pandemic, when her restaurant was limited to takeout services, Julie decided to
return to modeling. In 2021, she rekindled her modeling career and made waves in the industry yet
again. Julie competed in the Miss Fashion Global National Model Competition, where she placed inthe Top 10 of the 40 & Over division, a significant milestone in her career.
Julie’s involvement in the pageant world didn’t stop there. She soon became a proprietor in the
pageant, owning the state of Arizona. This new role allowed her to recruit a diverse range of women,
promoting body positivity, women empowerment, and diversity. These values are deeply important
to Julie, who believes in fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all women, regardless
of size, age, or background.
Sustainable Fashion: A New Passion
In addition to her impressive modeling achievements, Julie has also partnered with Sarah Davis, the
proprietor of Sarah Sustainable Fashion. Together, they work on projects that turn recycled materials
into beautiful, high-fashion designs. The concept of sustainable fashion is at the forefront of their
collaboration, where they focus on reducing the fashion industry’s environmental impact by
repurposing garments that would otherwise end up in landfills.
Sustainability has become a major theme in Julie’s recent work. She is learning about how recycling
materials can be transformed into gorgeous, handmade designs. This effort not only reduces waste
but also promotes a less impactful and more environmentally responsible approach to fashion.
What Sets Julie Cattaneo Apart?
Julie Cattaneo is known for her hard work, humility, and loyalty, values that she brings to every
project she takes on. Throughout her career, she has shown an ability to adapt to any situation. For
example, at a fashion show where the host failed to appear, Julie didn’t hesitate to step up, taking on
the role of the host and saving the event from potential disaster. Her willingness to embrace
challenges and deliver results has set her apart in both the fashion and culinary industries.
Julie’s flexibility and team-oriented approach ensure that she is a valuable collaborator in any
project. She often works alongside a talented team of professionals to orchestrate upcoming
projects, all while keeping the experience fun and engaging for everyone involved.
Motivation: Drawing Inspiration from a Fashion Visionary
A key source of inspiration for Julie is her designer partner, Sarah Davis. Sarah’s ability to take
discarded materials and transform them into show-stopping designs is a significant motivator for
Julie. The two women share a commitment to sustainability and creativity, and together they
continue to push boundaries in the world of fashion.
Defining Success: Julie’s Perspective
For Julie, success is not just about financial gain or public recognition. Instead, it’s about working
hard to achieve a dream you never thought possible. Her biggest milestone so far has been seeing
herself on a billboard at the M&M Store in Times Square during New York Fashion Week, a
testament to her dedication and perseverance. This achievement represents the culmination of years
of hard work, both as a model and a businesswoman.
What’s Next for Julie Cattaneo?
When it comes to future projects, Julie remains open to whatever opportunities the universe may
bring. She’s excited about the endless possibilities that lie ahead and is eager to continue her work in
both fashion and sustainability. With her proven track record of success, we can expect Julie to keep
making waves in the industry, whether it’s on the runway, in the kitchen, or through her ongoing
efforts to promote sustainable fashion.
Final Thoughts: Julie’s Legacy of Empowerment and Sustainability
Julie Cattaneo’s career is a unique blend of fashion, culinary excellence, and sustainability. She’s a
woman who has consistently reinvented herself, taking on new challenges and pushing the envelope
in every endeavor. From her early days as a jewelry model to her current roles as a pageant
proprietor and sustainability advocate, Julie exemplifies what it means to be a trailblazer.
Her passion for fashion, coupled with her commitment to environmental responsibility, ensures that
her legacy will extend far beyond the runway. Julie’s work promotes a new era of empowerment and
inclusivity, inspiring countless women to embrace their uniqueness and pursue their dreams.
