Download - 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