Betsey JohnsonBy Haley Knight

Betsey’s Life

• 1942-Born in CT• 1964-Graduated from

Syracuse• 1964-Mademoiselle

Magazine• 1964-Began designing for

Paraphernalia• 1969-Opened own

boutique, Betsey Bunki nini in NY

• 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

• Concern over future of environment

Fashion in the 70’s

• “Anything Goes” attitude

• Radical chic to punk

• Reaction to convention

• Dress as a system of signs

Significance

• Bodysuits, leotards, and hot pants• Windbreakers and sweatshirts, with style• 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-CFDA• 2002: Induction into Fashion Walk of Fame• 2005: Lifetime Achievement Award-

Signature Awards and NAWBO-NYC• 2005: Lifetime Achievement Award-

Accessories Council• 2007: Designer of the year-FABB

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JPc5eSTzqBI&feature=related

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