Born and raised in Manhattan, the daughter of archaeologists, Ulla Johnson honed her signature style between the streets of New York and the far-flung destinations of their family travels. Her eponymous line, founded in 1998 just after her graduation from university, immediately caught the attention of the fashion press.
Growing from a handful of directional boutiques and with an early endorsement from Barneys New York, Ulla Johnson’s collection has gained a dedicated following and the support of retailers across the US, Europe, Australia, and Asia. She has never wavered on her steadfast attention to the details of construction that have become her hallmark, basing each of her collections on a foundation of natural fibers, beautiful finishing, and ease of fit and form.
1) Ink by Perfumer H. I prefer something more earthy, and my go-to is Ink by Perfumer H, a small perfumery based in London. It’s handblown glass vessel is a thing of beauty.
2) Anne by Tenoverten. A perfect sheer pink shade that we used on the runway in our Spring / Summer 2025 show.
3) The Works of Lee Krasner. I’ve been a huge fan of Lee Krasner for as long as I can remember and her work speaks to me so much. She was an integral force within American painting but often under-recognized. We just unveiled a collaboration with the Pollock-Krasner Foundation that was two-years in the making, and the collection is a celebration of her work and legacy.
4) The Weather Underground app. I’m obsessed with the weather. I can give you the minute-by-minute updates!
5) Ulla Johnson Denim. Our denim is handcrafted responsibly in Los Angeles. The Bobbi Jacket and Willow Jean in dove gray or danube have become my fashion week uniform. I love a Texas Tuxedo.
6) Sisley Paris Black Rose Mask. I can’t live without the Black Rose Cream Mask. I use it a few times weekly – the scent is heaven and leaves my skin feeling glowy and healthy.
7) Sunsets at Duryea’s, in Montauk. A family summer ritual. We eat there either Friday or Sunday night basically every single weekend, and they have the most epic sunset. I don't know that you can see a better sunset on the Eastern seaboard.
8) Contax T3 35mm camera. I’m always carrying my camera with me, especially on my travels with my family or with the team on location. There’s something very special about memories living on through film.
9) Tuscon Incense by Astier de Villatte. They’re burning constantly in the studio or at home. I love the smoky sweet aroma wafting through a space, conjuring wild grasses and parched wood.
10) Gathering. I start each day in the garden when I can, cutting and gathering stems to bring light and life into the house. It gives me great joy to bring the outdoors in as much as I can, even in the heart of the city.
