JOHNNY WAS, LLC
ATLANTA, GA

Explore the world of Johnny Was... 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. Welcome to Johnny Was. about johnny was "I want this to be my house!" exclaimed a customer as she entered the intoxicating, new Johnny Was store in Santa Monica Place. Eli Levite's innovative brainchild strikes a visual balance between change and tradition, modern and vintage, unrestrained and reserved. The lure of Johnny Was is defined by the juxtaposition of beautifully crafted, luxurious, flowing clothing and gorgeous accessories with the rough edges of the store’s handcrafted, industrial eclecticism. After 23 successful years as an L.A.-based wholesale manufacturer, Levite intentionally welcomes a broad customer base by including six divisions which are embraced by the modern gypsy. The Johnny Was Collection offers the ultimate boho chic, while JWLA represents the quintessential California surfer chic. The Biya Collection offers timeless, eclectic and stylish silhouettes that are bold and distinctive. Pete & Greta brings lifestyle basics with an edge, while 4 Love and Liberty caters to the fashion-forward sophisticate. 3J Workshop feminizes the traditional menswear shirt with fine workmanship & fit. Clearly, great music adds to the mix at Johnny Was. And music filled the Levites' house as Eli Levite was developing and conceptualizing his fashion business back in the late '80s. In those moments - while his kids played and replayed the infectious Bob Marley refrain, "Johnny was a good man..." - Levite's first vintage-inspired collection was conceived as ...Johnny Was. JOHNNY WAS COLLECTION Think… ultimate creations for urban bohemians, and you will find the Johnny Was Collection by designer Biya Ramar. Biya infuses this timeless collection with a passion for women whose lifestyles embrace originality and creativity. Biya’s inspiration is derived from traveling the world and experiencing a variety of cultures.