Our Story
Born and raised in Slovakia during the 1980s, Juraj Straka’s deep love for textiles was sparked by his mother, who always hand-crafted her clothes with vibrant colors and intricate prints. This early exposure ignited a lifelong fascination with textile design.
At the age of 15, Juraj began intensive training in Slovakia, mastering traditional techniques in hand-painted and hand-drawn designs. Initially part of his fashion design studies, he soon focused entirely on textile design, mastering techniques that would become the cornerstone of his career.
At 20, Juraj’s career took a pivotal turn when he moved to France to work for BUCOL – HOLDING TEXTILE HERMES in Lyon, one of the last surviving silk manufacturers. Starting as an intern, he advanced to become the head designer of printed fabrics, a role he held for seven years.
Juraj’s journey continued at the French haute couture house SCHIAPARELLI, where he served as head designer of embroideries and prints. In 2016, he realized a long-held dream by joining DRIES VAN NOTEN as the head print designer. For over four years, he immersed himself in his passion for print and textiles, contributing to the brand’s renowned aesthetic.
The year 2020 marked a turning point as Juraj ventured into freelance work with the launch of his own company – TEXTILE STUDIO JS. His studio quickly gained recognition, producing distinctive prints for prominent Belgian labels such as Essentiel Antwerp, Natan, and Meryll Rogge. His international influence expanded with designs for Jason Wu in New York, famously worn by style icon Anna Wintour.
In 2021, Juraj began wearing his own prints to client meetings, using them as a unique business card. The positive feedback he received was a catalyst for a new endeavor: his own capsule collection. In 2024, Juraj launched his eponymous brand, JURAJ STRAKA, bringing to life his most cherished designs in high-quality garments. This collection represents a fusion of his expertise and personal style—bold, colorful prints for men that reflect his own love for vivid fashion.