Johnny Was is a Los Angeles-based women’s lifestyle brand founded in 1987 by designer EliLevite. The brand is known for its bohemian-chic and vintage-inspired aesthetic—flowing dresses, lush embroidery, luxurious craftsmanship, and a free-spirited approach to design.
Their mission is to combine artisan craftsmanship (intricate prints, embroidery, and unique fabrics) with wearable luxury. The brand is aimed at women seeking something more expressive than standard basics—designs that feel personal, handmade, and distinctive.
In recent years, Johnny Was has positioned itself in the area of “affordable luxury” – premium prices, high-quality materials, but not ultra-luxurious haute couture. Against this background, the crucial question arises: Do the style, workmanship and wearability justify the cost?
Let’s examine five flagship items to assess what results they deliver.
Here are practical style tests of five notable Johnny Was items:
Design & Aesthetic: This dress combines vintage-inspired floral prints, a knee-length skirt, a split V-neck, and tiered skirt details. The fabric is a silk blend, which enhances the look and drape of the dress.
Wear & Fit: The silhouette flatters many body types – the tiered skirt creates movement, and the waist is defined yet comfortable. Thanks to the quality of the fabric, the dress drapes beautifully and feels luxurious.
Strengths: Unique print, high-quality materials, elegant for the transition from day to evening.
Considerations: At this price, you expect a perfect fit—some might find it necessary to tailor. Also, the prints are striking—less suitable if you prefer a minimalist look.
Ideal For: Someone looking for an eye-catching dress for events, upscale brunches, or vacations who values thoughtful details.
Design & Aesthetic: Crafted from a luxurious silk-blend velvet, this blouse features gold embroidery, a split V-neck, and lightly puffed bishop sleeves, combining structure with ornate details.
Wear & Fit: The velvet adds weight and structure, and the sleeves add volume without being overwhelming. The details transform an otherwise simple blouse into a statement piece.
Strengths: High-quality material, handcrafted embroidery, strong style for statement styling.
Considerations: Velvet is less breathable and therefore may not be ideal in warm climates. The design is bold and therefore less versatile for very casual settings.
Ideal For: Evening events, dressy days where you want a blouse that feels “designer” and isn’t just another top.
Design & Aesthetic: This dress is made from a burnout silk blend and features a striking retro print. The tank silhouette with thin straps gives the dress a more relaxed yet sophisticated look.
Wear & Fit: The fabric and print give it a unique look—ideal for resort or vacation wear. The cut is snug, yet tailored enough to feel elegant.
Strengths: Suitable for vacation, bold prints, high-quality fabric.
Considerations: The print may not suit a more conservative wardrobe. Thin straps may require special underwear for some wearers.
Ideal For: Vacation, casual wear, or any other occasion where you want a dress that stands out and feels effortless.
Design & Aesthetic: Lightweight mesh fabric with a bold color and floral motif, a turtleneck, button detail, and side slits. It strikes a balance between a bold print and a modern silhouette.
Wear & Fit: The mesh fabric offers breathability; side slits allow for freedom of movement. The colors are vibrant—it looks best when styled simply, allowing the blouse to take center stage.
Strengths: Modern interpretation of boho, versatility (can be worn dressy or casual), interesting fabric.
Considerations: Mesh may require more care; the prints are bold and may look too casual for very formal occasions.
Ideal For: Stylish everyday wear, creative office environments, evenings where you want flair but not a full skirt.
Design & Aesthetic: Featuring a lightweight, flowing fabric, rich embroidery, a ruffled collar, a keyhole front, and bishop sleeves, the design combines boho charm with modern tailoring.
Wear & Fit: The top is flattering, and the embroidery makes the blouse stand out. The fabric drapes beautifully. Pairs well with jeans for a casual look or with trousers for a more elegant look.
Strengths: Excellent material/fabric feel, nice details, good for many occasions.
Considerations: Embroidery requires more care (washing, avoiding snagging). The price of a blouse is high compared to conventional brands.
Ideal For: Anyone who wants a top that looks like a designer piece but at the same time conveys a relaxed luxury feel.
Compare what you pay for and what you get:
In short: Yes, for someone who identifies with the brand’s aesthetic and is willing to invest in high-quality pieces—but perhaps not for those looking for casual everyday basics at a lower price.
Domestic (Contiguous US):
Free ground delivery on orders of $125 or more.
Hawaii, Alaska & US Territories:
Economy shipping for $18, estimated delivery time 3-7 business days depending on destination.
Return eligibility:
Full-price or standard-discount items (up to 49% off the original price) can be returned for a full refund (to the original payment method) or exchanged within 30 days of delivery.
Johnny Was stands out in the women’s fashion landscape as a brand that offers artisan-inspired style, unique fabrics, and expressive design. If your wardrobe and personal style lean toward bohemian luxury, high-quality fabrics, and vibrant prints, and you appreciate craftsmanship, many of their pieces are worth the investment.
However, if you prefer minimalist silhouettes, ultra-affordable prices, or minimal-maintenance garments, this brand might be overkill. For maximum value, choose eye-catching pieces you’ll wear repeatedly and treat them with care.
My recommendation: Choose one or two key pieces (a dress or blouse) and consider how often you wear them. If they become favorites that you change often, they’re probably good value for money. If they’re left unused, you might be paying more than you’d use them.
