As the name behind the new premium designer jean fashion label, CJ Jeans, Cookie Johnson not only carries her husband’s famous last name, but also his savvy business sense.

The wife of former NBA basketball star Magic Johnson made a recent stop to the recently opened Neiman Marcus in Bellevue to reveal her new line of designer denim for curvy women. Cookie Johnson teamed up with Michael Glasser, the Founder of 7 For All Mankind, Citizens of Humanity and Rich & Skinny, to create a new line of denim made specifically for women who are fit with curves.

The idea for CJ Jeans came about when Cookie Johnson herself was having trouble finding jeans that would not only fit, but flatter.

“For years, I would be hopeful when trying on a new pair of jeans only to be disappointed because they rode to low at the waist or just didn’t fit right,” she said. “I think it was my frustration that led me to want to start my own line. I just wanted to be able to wear jeans and feel good in them.”

The price tag for the debut collection runs from $145-$198 in sizes 24-38.

“Most designer denim stops at size 32,” she pointed out, at the Neiman Marcus meet and greet. “The average woman these days isn’t a size 0 like you see on the runways.”

Her new line of denim comes in a variety of styles and cuts including boot cut, straight leg, boyfriend, high-waist styles, plus leggings. Each style in her debut collection was given an inspirational name such as Hope and Dream, words that reflects Cookie’s day-to-day mantra in life.

“My kids are grown and I felt it was the perfect time to pursue my own project. I have discovered something that I am really passionate about,” she explained. “My husband has been my biggest supporter and gave me great business advice along the way, but this is something I really wanted to do on my own. I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished with my new denim line.”

CJ Jeans by Cookie Johnson are available at Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s.

Lindsay Larin can be reached at 425.453.4602.