MAKER: Redefining Comfort and Inclusion – Julia’s Vision with Sense-ational You
Meet Julia DeNey, the founder of Sense-ational You, a brand dedicated to adaptive fashion that prioritizes sensory needs without compromising on style. As a former special educator turned solo entrepreneur, Julia is on a mission to create inclusive clothing that not only serves neurodivergent individuals but is universally beneficial. Through her work, she challenges the traditional boundaries of fashion, proving that comfort and accessibility can be a standard for all.
On Being a Savant
What Does Being a Savant Mean to You?
A: A savant to me means someone who has found a subject or skill that is their calling; they excel at this through natural ability and talent. Someone who is then able to take that experience and make advancements or changes in their industry. I am committed to learning all that I can to be innovative and make change within the adaptive fashion world!
The Moment of Realization
The Moment You Knew You Were Unique—How Did It Shape You?
A: I grew up being someone who did not have a lot of confidence or believe that I had anything special to offer. It wasn’t until college that I began to open up and take the steps to go off a traditional path—and trust that I could succeed. It took the outside encouragement of local parents I worked with through my independent study and supportive professors to help me realize that I had a unique perspective and desire to truly make a difference.
Daily Rituals and Passion
What’s Your Daily Ritual for Tapping into Your Genius?
A: Starting off every day by walking my dog and listening to podcasts always helps me get motivated for the day ahead. It helps clear my head, inspires creativity, and awakens my body and brain. I also always tap into my communities of fellow female entrepreneurs who inspire me to keep going even during the hard times. I try to connect with these communities daily, even if it’s just reading others’ posts to stay inspired by all the innovation happening around me.
On Identity and Labels
In a World Obsessed with Labels, How Do You Define Yourself?
A: I define myself as a former special educator and current solo founder and female entrepreneur. Starting a business alone and as a woman can be more challenging. By using these terms, and deriving strength from them, I feel empowered to help change the assumptions surrounding entrepreneurship. One doesn’t have to say they are a male entrepreneur—it’s just entrepreneur, because men are often assumed to be in that role. By proudly proclaiming that I am a female entrepreneur, I know I am part of a larger community working to shift that narrative.
Misconceptions
What’s the Most Misunderstood Aspect of Your Identity or Life/Work?
A: People often assume that my work, creating adaptive apparel for those with sensory needs like autistic children and adults, is just for those with sensory processing challenges. I often get asked, “Can I buy this if I am not autistic?”—and of course, the answer is yes! My mission is to create greater inclusion and acceptance for neurodivergent people through fashion that meets their needs, but the clothing is made for everyone.
Anyone can enjoy having no tags or magnetic closures, but for some, those features are essential. Even our more adaptive designs—like our hoodie with built-in sound reduction and an eye mask that pulls down—were created for those who struggle with overstimulation, but they are also great for plane travel, migraines, and naps. Adaptive designs are truly universal and can benefit many while serving as a tool to start conversations about inclusion and accessibility.
Creative Inspirations
Which Piece of Music, Art, or Literature Speaks to Your Soul—and Why?
A: I really love listening to country music. It helps me focus while working, clears my mind on walks, and brings back so many fun summer memories with friends.
Legacy and Impact
What’s Your Legacy in the Making?
A: I hope my lasting impact is creating greater awareness of sensory needs and better inclusion in society. I want to be remembered as someone who had a positive impact on those around me and in the lives of people who needed it most.
Bold Moves
What’s the Most Radical Thing You’ve Ever Done in the Name of Passion?
A: Leaving my job and moving to a new city to be in a better place to help my business thrive—without a backup plan. No regrets! I would have regretted it if I had never tried.
Finding Balance
How Do You Balance the Chaos and the Calm in Your Life?
A: I intentionally carve out moments in my day to step away from my desk and slow down. I take my dog for two walks a day, and I go to my favorite fitness classes two to three times a week. Getting out and moving my body clears my mind and forces me to disconnect from work.
Role Models and Wisdom
Who’s Your Ultimate Role Model—And What Have They Taught You?
A: I look up to my older sister, Nathalie. She has always been a role model for me—hardworking and ambitious while still prioritizing joy. I’ve learned to focus on my goals and set high expectations for myself because of her influence.
Advice to Younger Self
If You Could Speak to Your Younger Self, What Advice Would You Give?
A: I would tell my younger self to embrace my passions and creativity sooner. I grew up in a family of engineers and bankers, so I always saw creative pursuits as just hobbies until much later in life. I wish I had nurtured those interests earlier.
The Power of Words
What’s Your Favorite Curse Word or Expletive, and Why?
A: Fuck. It helps me release frustration over a situation and really encapsulates my emotions without needing to say much else.
Looking Forward
What Are You Looking Forward To?
A: I’m excited to be adding new colors and style variations of our best-selling QuietSense Sound Reducing Hoodie! It’s been a customer favorite, and I can’t wait to take their feedback and evolve the design with more options.
Connect with Sense-ational You
