betsey johnson

Betsey JohnsonBy Haley Knight

Betsey’s Life

• 1942-Born in CT• 1964-Graduated from

Syracuse• 1964-Mademoiselle

Magazine• 1964-Designed for

Paraphernalia• 1969-Opened own

boutique• 1978-Began own label• 1998-Expanded

internationally

The U.S. in the 70’s

• Energy crisis• Increasing

unemployment• World recession• Civil rights• Gay liberation • Women’s movements• Future of environment

Fashion in the 70’s

• “Anything Goes” attitude

• Radical chic to punk

• Reaction to convention

• Dress = system of signs

Significance

• Bodysuits• Leotards• hot pants• Stylish windbreakers & sweatshirts• Extravagant disco wear• Over-the-top looks• Sexy silhouettes• Fabulous fit• Whimsical detail

Her Looks

“Making clothes involves what I like…color, pattern, shape and movement…I like the

everyday process…the people, the pressure, the surprise of seeing the work come alive

walking and dancing around on strangers. Like red lipstick on the mouth, my products wake up

and brighten and bring the wearer to life…drawing attention to her beauty and

specialness…her moods and movements…her dreams and fantasies.”

-Betsey Johnson

Inspiration

• Dance classes as a child

• Bright colors

• Wild Patterns

• Unique Shapes

• Clothing with Movement

Accomplishments

• 1972: COTY Award• 1990: Timeless Talent Award• 2002: Fashion Walk of Fame• 2005: 2 Lifetime Achievement Awards• 2007: Designer of the year-FABB

References• Herald, Jacqueline. (1992). Fashions of a decade: the

1970’s. New York: Facts on File.

• Unknown. (Unknown). Biography. October 1, 2008, http://www.betseyjohnson.com/bio.html

• Unknown. (Unknown). Biography: Betsey Johnson. October 1, 2008, http://www.answers.com/topic/betsey-johnson

• West, M. (June 2008). Designer profile: Betsey Johnson. October 1, 2008, http://american-fashiondesigners.suite101.com/article.cfm/designer_profile_betsey_johnson