Johnny Was Opens on Coast Village Road

Southern California-based clothing and accessory brand Johnny Was has opened its 15th store in California (44th nationwide), in the historic Costa Villa building on Coast Village Road. The boutique opened for business on Friday, April 5. 

“With our roots in Southern California and a brand DNA that seems well suited for Santa Barbara, opening a store in Montecito was a long sought-after destination for us and a natural next step for expansion,” said Rob Trauber, CEO of Johnny Was. “Montecito exudes color, architecture, culture, fashion, and natural beauty. The location really complements the relaxed vibrancy of our brand, and we’re so excited to be a part of the community there.” 

The clothing at Johnny Was consists of luxurious silk, velvet, linen and cotton fabrics, signature prints, and detailed embroideries that embody a relaxed lifestyle and bohemian elegance. Artfully constructed accessories include scarves, ornate handbags, jewelry, swimwear, and vintage belts. The brand is known for its worldly aesthetic and free-spirited style, with modern accents, colors, and textures that cross generations. 

The two-story, 1,684 square foot Montecito store features hand-painted wall murals by artist Christopher Lord. The light and airy space, which was formerly home to furniture shop E. Madison, features a curated selection of custom embroidered dusters, jackets, blouses, kimonos, and bohemian style accessories. 

Established in 1987 in Southern California, the Johnny Was brand offers timeless clothes and accessories that reflect an effortless elegance and embrace a relaxed lifestyle. The brand includes a full line of fabrics, signature prints, and detailed accessories. In addition to the 44 stores located nationwide, various premium retailers also carry the brand. 

A Grand Opening party, hosted by Chynna and Billy Baldwin, will be held this Saturday, April 13, from 6 to 9 pm. A portion of the proceeds from the celebration will benefit the Partnership For Resilient Communities, the non-profit currently installing debris flow nets in areas affected by the tragic Thomas Fire and 1/9 debris flow in Montecito. Santa Barbara-based Margerum Wine Company will be pouring two of their flagship wines, namely their 2018 Riviera Rosé and 2017 M5 White, while The Monarch, Montecito Inn’s acclaimed eatery, will be serving passed hors d’oeuvres. Monarch co-owner and Pastry Chef Marguerita Kallas Lee, who used to model for Johnny Was, is also making a display of her chocolate bon bons.

The store, located at 1159 Coast Village Road, is open Monday through Saturday from 10 am to 7 pm, and Sunday from 11 am to 6 pm. For more information, visit www.johnnywas.com.