Why Johnny Was Is...

For me, Johnny Was is one of the greatest labels you can have in your wardrobe. The only way I can truly describe it is as affordable luxury. Yes, it sits at a higher price point, and many of my customers do see it as expensive — but what matters most is the value it brings over time.

One beautiful piece of Johnny Was will leave you smiling every single time you wear it, not just for a season, but for years — often a decade or more.

There is something unmistakable about Johnny Was. It has a signature that is instantly recognisable — you can spot it a mile away. Yet what makes it even more special is how wearable it is. These are not pieces that sit in your wardrobe waiting for an occasion. They are pieces you can truly live in, day after day.

I have never been drawn to clothing that costs a fortune and is worn once. Event wear, ball gowns — they rarely earn their place long term. They are difficult to restyle, they take up space, and often they don’t bring lasting joy. I would far rather invest in a piece that becomes part of my everyday wardrobe — something I reach for again and again, year after year.

I still remember the first time I discovered Johnny Was. I came across one of their catalogues and was completely mesmerised. It felt like stepping into another era — a sense of artistry and romance that is so rare. The richly embroidered velvet kimonos, the silk shirts, the intricate patterns… I had never seen anything quite like it. I was instantly in love.

Johnny Was is often described as luxury bohemian, but it goes far beyond that. It is individual, expressive, and quietly confident.

Over the years, I have found my favourites — those pieces I turn to, time & time again. When I travel, I always pack their silk shirts. They don’t crease, they transition effortlessly from day to night, and they strike that perfect balance between smart and relaxed. To me, that is not just style — that is practicality at its finest.

Beautiful, easy to wear, no ironing required, versatile, individual, and made to last — this is where true value lies. These are pieces that work hard for you, and continue to do so for years.

Johnny Was pieces have a presence. They make you feel something when you wear them. They lift an outfit, they lift your mood, and they stand the test of time. They are, in every sense, investment pieces.

I understand that the price can feel a little confronting at first. But when you think about cost per wear, the story changes completely. And with options like layby, it becomes even more accessible.

Your wardrobe will thank you for it. You will feel confident, effortlessly styled, and just a little bit special every time you put one on.

And if I am honest — everyone deserves a little Johnny in their life.