The year was 1987, and for the creators of Johnny Was, it came in the form of a classic reggae song released a decade earlier. Living by the beach in Southern California, while the Bob Marley tune with the eponymous line, “Johnny was a good man…” was on heavy rotation, a clothing line was born.

Just like the universal and timeless appeal of a great song, Johnny Was is about clothes that cross cultures and defy trends. With a bohemian spirit and a true sense of authenticity, we take our inspiration from anything that is beautiful, genuine and just that little bit special; a timeless piece of art, or the luxurious hand-stitching on a vintage dress, to the simplicity of a vibrant bougainvillea. It’s the gorgeous details in life that make it beautiful and that’s what we try to create with Johnny Was; the most exquisite embroidery, luxurious fabrics, a juxtaposition between vintage and modern, and always effortless silhouettes.

Johnny Was creates clothes and accessories that embrace a California lifestyle but speak to a global vision, that feel luxurious, yet ready to be packed into a suitcase for a last minute trip. It is about going through life with an ease that’s both alluring and inspiring.