Designer Spotlight: Betsey Johnson

At age 68, Betsey Johnson is still rockin the runway. Her unique designs have been changing with the times since the 1960's, but I love that Johnson stays true to her creative self, and isn't set on following trends of the fashion industry. She was awarded for this by the CFDA when she won the "timeless talent award", created just for her!

Betsey studied at the Pratt Institute and at Syracuse University. Following graduation, she worked as an intern at Mademoiselle magazine for a year. She then won the Mademoiselle guest editor contest which launched her career in fashion.

A boutique known as Paraphernalia was Johnson's first in house design gig. In the early 70's Betsey took over for the rock n roll collection Alley Cat. In her first year their, the collection took in over $5 million.

Betsey Johnson started her self titled label in 1978 which is still going strong. Her daughter, Lulu, was born in 1975 who now has a daughter of her own, Layla. Betsey loves spending time with her girls!

In 2002, Betsey was diagnosed with breast cancer. She went through radiation and had a lumpectomy, and is now cancer-free! Also in this year Betsey was inducted into the Fashion Walk of Fame. An original sketch, signature and biography was embedded into the Seventh Avenue sidewalk. Her other achievements include a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2005 from the NAWBO-NYC committee, a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Accessories Council in 2005, and Designer of the Year Award from the American Apparel and Footwear Association in 2006.

Betsey shows off her youthful-ness at the finale of all of her fashion shows by doing a signature cartwheel. Her spirit and energy is so inspiring to so many of her colleagues, fans, and supporters.

Thank you Betsey!