
Faith, Family, and Fashion: My Story Featured on Chabad.org
Aja CohenShare
I’m overjoyed and deeply honored to share that I was recently featured on Chabad.org in an article about my journey through faith, family, and fashion. Seeing my story in such a respected space was surreal — and it’s a moment I’ll treasure forever.
Growing up Italian in New Jersey, my life was filled with vibrant traditions, close-knit family gatherings, and a deep love for culture. From Sunday dinners with homemade pasta to celebrating milestones surrounded by loved ones, family and heritage have always been at the center of my life. At the same time, I felt a curiosity about spirituality that went beyond the Catholic traditions I grew up with. That curiosity eventually led me to Judaism, and it’s been a journey of discovery, growth, and empowerment ever since.
Embracing Judaism hasn’t meant leaving my Italian roots behind — in fact, it’s deepened them. Both cultures honor family, community, and ritual, and I’ve found ways to blend them in a way that feels authentic to me. My Italian side brings warmth, creativity, and a love for life’s simple pleasures; my Jewish faith brings intentionality, spirituality, and a guiding set of values. Seeing that interplay highlighted in the Chabad.org article was incredibly affirming.
One of the most exciting aspects of this journey has been Transcendent Active, the modest activewear brand I founded. Inspired by my own experience navigating modest fashion, I wanted to create pieces that allow women to move freely, confidently, and stylishly — whether they’re running a half marathon, teaching yoga, or simply enjoying their day-to-day life. Each piece, from our modest sport skirts to modest workout tops, reflects the balance I’ve found between function, fashion, and modesty.
Being featured on Chabad.org is not just about celebrating my brand — it’s about celebrating the broader journey of embracing identity, faith, and purpose. The article highlights how my personal and professional paths intersect, and it feels amazing to have that story shared with a community that values faith, family, and personal expression.
Social media, particularly TikTok, has also played a huge role in this journey. TikTok became a space where I could share, explore, and celebrate both my Italian and Jewish identities. Through it, I connected with other women navigating similar paths — sharing ideas about modest fashion, faith-based living, and self-expression. Seeing their stories, learning from their experiences, and engaging in meaningful dialogue helped me come into my own. TikTok wasn’t just a platform; it became a community and a source of inspiration. It's also my happy place and a form of personal therapy.
I’m so grateful to the the Chabad.org piece for capturing my story with care and insight. It’s not easy to distill a lifetime of experiences, passions, and values into one article, but they did it beautifully. Especially when it comes to an outgoing person like myself! Reading the feature reminded me how far I’ve come in embracing who I am — and how exciting it is to continue blending my Italian heritage with Jewish faith, all while doing work I love.
This feature also reinforces the importance of modest fashion. For me, modesty isn’t about limitation — it’s about empowerment. It’s about designing clothing that allows women to express themselves, feel confident, and honor their values. From our Mesh All Day Active Skirt to versatile tops and dresses, every piece is crafted to help women move with confidence, no matter their lifestyle or faith.
If you haven’t had a chance to read the article yet, you can check it out here: Chabad.org: How an Italian Girl Found Faith, Family, and Fashion in Judaism.
Being featured is an honor, but it’s also a reminder that this journey is ongoing. I’m excited to continue growing, learning, and celebrating the intersection of faith, culture, family, and fashion. And I hope my story can inspire others to embrace their identities fully — in all their complexity and beauty.
Thank you to everyone who has supported me along the way — from family and friends to the women who wear and share Transcendent Active. This feature isn’t just about me; it’s about all of us finding strength, style, and purpose in our own journeys. Now go read the article!!!