A team of collaborators
The journey of creating Ellen's Closet began with a shared vision: to honor Ellen Johnson's life and legacy through a thoughtfully designed publication that would resonate with diverse audiences. Steered and led by Ellen’s sister, Margaret, the book is the result of a passionate collaboration between writers, photographers, designers, archivists, and friends who share a commitment to preserving and celebrating personal style.
The book transcends traditional categories. Part biography, part visual essay, part cultural documentation, it is an intimate and compelling portrait of one woman's enduring influence.
Ellen Johnson
The Heart of the Story
Ellen Johnson was a Fort Worth native and longtime resident of New Orleans whose vibrant life inspired the creation of Ellen’s Closet. Known for her distinctive sense of fashion, adventurous spirit, and deep commitment to the arts, Ellen built a life filled with creativity, friendship, and exploration.
A respected publicist and arts advocate, she helped bring national recognition to organizations and events including the Tennessee Williams/New Orleans Literary Festival and the New Orleans Film Festival. She also served in leadership roles with the Contemporary Arts Center and the New Orleans Film Society, contributing significantly to the city's cultural community.
Together with her husband, Dr. Ronald Swartz, Ellen traveled extensively throughout the world, from Iceland to Patagonia, and embraced challenges ranging from mountain climbing to long-distance hiking. Her enthusiasm for life were reflected not only in her adventures but also in her personal style.
Ellen possessed an extraordinary eye for fashion and design, treating clothing as a form of artistic expression. Whether wearing sculptural garments and statement jewelry or preparing for her next outdoor adventure, she approached style with confidence, originality, and joy. Her remarkable wardrobe serves as both a reflection of her personality and a window into a life lived fully.
Margaret Johnson
Ellen's Sister/Author
Margaret Johnson is an Emmy-nominated picture researcher and illustrations editor. She has worked on documentaries for PBS, the BBC and Dror Moreh Productions, among others. In addition she has authored and contributed to books published by National Geographic and provided research for museum exhibitions, including projects with the Library of Congress. Margaret lives in Washington, D.C.
Georgina O'Hara Callan
Co-Author
Georgina O’Hara Callan is a former women's magazine editor, a writer, and the author of several books including, notably, Thames & Hudson's Dictionary of Fashion and Fashion Designers. She has written other books on social history. Her most recent books, Sixty and Speaking Up and Seventy and Speaking Up are both memoirs and an edited anthology of essays. She is currently working on her first novel, Groundsman’s Cottage.
David Whitmore
Book Designer
David Whitmore is an award-winning publication designer and former Design Director of National Geographic magazine. Drawing on decades of experience in editorial storytelling, he designed Ellen's Closet to balance the warmth of a family album with the elegance of a museum-quality publication. Working closely with Margaret Johnson, he crafted a visual identity that reflects Ellen's distinctive style while guiding readers through the story of her life and wardrobe.
Texas Fashion Collection
Archival & Educational Partner
The Texas Fashion Collection (TFC), housed in the College of Visual Arts and Design at the University of North Texas, became the permanent home for Ellen Johnson's remarkable wardrobe after her passing.
Dedicated to preserving and documenting historically significant fashion, the collection provides students, researchers, and the public with hands-on access to garments that represent important moments in fashion history.
By accepting and preserving Ellen's collection, the TFC fulfilled her wish that her clothing continue to serve a purpose: allowing future generations to study the craftsmanship, materials, and artistry behind the garments she so thoughtfully curated.