For the countless brides who put their money and faith in Australian designer Johanna Johnson, it’s crushing news. But for those seeking a bargain it’s better than Myer on Boxing Day.
Having gone into liquidation in April this year, hundreds of evening and wedding gowns designed by Johnson have now gone on sale, and pieces that would have previously gone for as much as $7,000 are being snapped up by savvy shoppers for as little at $50.
A bride and bridesmaids wearing Johanna Johnson. Source: Instagram.
Originally reported on Tuesday night's episode of A Current Affair Alison Piotrowski said, "It's all part of the liquidation process, with hundreds of gowns stripped from the designer's showroom and going under the hammer on Gray's Online with bidding starting as low as $9."
Based in Sydney, the site is listing dresses individually as well as in groups for those wanting to purchase multiple items.
Johanna Johnson sale wedding dresses. Source: Gray's Online.
"The Lincoln dress," Piotrowski continues, "used to sell for $5,800. Now the highest bid is just $39. Or there's the satin vintage slip that used to be $2,800. It's currently listed for just $69."
According to A Current Affair around 40 dresses have been sold so far, with the highest selling going for a mere $400.
Johanna Johnson sale dresses. Source: Gray's Online.
The designer, whose clientele previously included celebrities such as Chrissy Teigen and Madonna, is being pursued by the Australian Taxation Office and former employees for owing a reported $1.1 million. This figure reportedly included $300,000 in superannuation charges the company failed to pay employees.
Johanna Johnson outside her boutique. Source: Instagram.
But as time goes on and investigations continue, Johnson continues to say that she will deliver all outstanding wedding dresses to her brides.
Whether or not that promise can actually be met remains to be seen.