bad juju

Julian McCleary is a New York–based fashion designer, sewing educator, and the creative mind behind Bad Juju Design, a brand recognized for transforming discarded textiles into bold, one-of-a-kind garments.

With a background rooted in craftsmanship and reinvention, Julian has built a career that bridges fashion, sustainability, and education. His work challenges conventional ideas of value by proving that rescued materials can become expressive, high-impact statement pieces.

Julian is not only a designer but also a dedicated sewing instructor at the New York Sewing Center, where he teaches aspiring creators how to sew, design, and understand garment construction. Through education, he empowers students to see fashion as both a technical skill and a creative language.

His designs and creative voice have attracted a global audience across social platforms, where he has cultivated a highly engaged following of nearly half a million people. Known for his distinctive blend of humor, nostalgia, and fearless self-expression, Julian’s work resonates with those drawn to individuality, sustainability, and unconventional beauty.

Julian is the founder of Bad Juju Design, an upcycled fashion label celebrated for:

• One-of-a-kind garments
• Innovative use of reclaimed textiles
• Bold, expressive aesthetics
• Y2K and pop-culture influences
• Sustainable design practices

His creations have been worn, shared, and collected by clients who value uniqueness, craftsmanship, and fashion that tells a story.

Beyond designing, Julian is a content creator and creative storyteller whose digital presence highlights the artistry, chaos, and intention behind upcycled fashion. His work has helped reshape conversations around sustainability — presenting it not as minimal or muted, but dramatic, playful, and emotionally charged.

At its core, Julian’s work is driven by a simple philosophy:

Fashion does not need more production.
Fashion needs more imagination.

Every Bad Juju piece is designed to disrupt sameness, celebrate personality, and prove that beauty can emerge from the unexpected.