Johnnie-O Brings the Best of Both Coasts

The West Coast fashion label, johnnie-O, has been developing their product offering and expanding on the east coast since launching a few years ago, offering up an aesthetic that is the perfect mix between east and west coast styles.

I previously wrote about johnnie-O and the great brand they were establishing, but if they are not on your radar yet, I highly recommend checking them out. The band attracts me for two reasons, namely the product and the quality. For those that feel that sometimes the true "east coast" prep look can be a bit much while the traditional "west coast" vibe is too relaxed, the johnnie-O product is perfect for you as it harmoniously combines these to offer up what is dubs, "west coast prep."

Headed up by John O'Donnell, the brand's aesthetic is inspired by his days in LA where he traded his penny loafers for sandals. O'Donnell is a strong believer in having what you love, and this is exactly what inspired the west coast prep pieces. He loved the preppy essentials of his Chicago childhood, but also loved the casualness of his time spent in LA and mixed these two looks to create the Johnnie-O line.

I have experienced the the product first hand, and can notably say that you can feel the quality of the fabric and the attention to detail. The fabrics feel soft yet substantial as opposed to some of the common prep brands with ponies or crocs. Additionally, the pieces still contain the details that smaller brands offer, one of the reasons I personally love finding new brands. My personal favorite feature on johnnie-O shirts is the "tweener" button, O'Donnell's answer to the ever present conundrum of do I button the second button or not? The tweener is a hidden button on the placket that offers the perfect "in between first and second button."

Overall the line of apparel and accessories for men and boys is based on the premise of an active lifestyle while retaining elements of tradition. One of their great new pieces is the Johnson "prep-formance" button down, crafted from performance fabric. The moisture wicking fabric makes it the perfect travel companion as it is wrinkle resistant and washable. Not to mention, the classic styling takings it from golf course to dinner....who doesn't love that?

I styled the button down shirt with classic, cotton twill Catalina shorts. The look is quintessentially prep, yet the fit denotes an air of relaxation, especially with the d-ring belt. This look is a go-to for weekends or rounds of golf with the shirt being versatile enough to wear to the office as well. Pair with your favorite preppy accessory, in my case Ray-Ban aviators, for the ideal look.

Shirt & Shorts: C/O johnnie-O // Belt: Ralph Lauren // Sunglasses: Ray-Ban

West Coast Prep with Johnnie-O

East Coasters like to pride themselves on their east coast roots and their version of what it means to be "prep." When I think of the quintessential east coast preppy image, things such as the Yale quad, navy blazers, rugbys, and cricket sweaters come to mind. Always in a quest to discover new brands, I was introduced to the West coast prep brand, Johnnie-O.

West coast prep is a bit more quirky and laid back than the typical east coast vision, and the line from Johnnie-O is just that with brightly colored poplin shorts, polos, and sport shirts. The founder has brought a melange of "midwest farmer, east coast prep, and west coast 'dude'," three elements which can be seen throughout the line.

As we are officially about to enter into the summer season this Saturday, so, too, comes sun kissed skin which makes the perfect backdrop for bright summer hues. I was drawn to the bright hues of the poplin shorts which are done in a nice length which is great for the golf course or running around town. Additionally, the brand's 4-button polo comes in an array of bright colors great for the season.

I am drawn toward the laid back aesthetic to the Johnnie-O brand and am excited to see the upcoming lines as well as the brands growth here on the east coast. The brand also carries lines for both women and children. If you are in New York, be sure to check out the pop-up shop located at 501 Lexington Avenue through the month of June!

Polo, Shirts: C/O Johnnie-O