DALLAS, Jan 7, 2005/ FW/ --- One of the most enduring designers in the New York fashion scene is Betsey Johnson who started her fashion design career in 1965 and still growing strong after 40 years in the business.

A native of Weathersfield, Connecticut, Betsey Johnson studied at Syracuse University. After graduation in 1964, she worked for Mademoiselle as a Guest Editor. A year later, she found herself as the Head Designer for Paraphernalia Boutique.

The 1960s were turbulent times – Woodstock, Jimmy Hendrix, the Beatles and Hair, were part of the popular culture that changed the world. Betsey Johnson became part and parcel of the “Youth Quake,” and in turn became America’s Queen of Punk with her kooky ideas and designs that challenged the status quo.

In 1969, she worked for Alvin Dunskin until she became the Creative Director at Alley Cat in 1971.

By this time, she was already firmly rooted as the Queen of Rock & Roll clothing, with hippie and ethnic influences. In 1972, she won the Coty Award.

Finally, in 1978, Betsey Johnson decided to strike out on her own, and launched the Betsey Johnson label.

She was commercially successful since its first year and she was able to open a stand-alone boutique in SoHo. Other Betsey Johnson boutiques followed. She also expanded her lines with the launch of Betsey Johnson perfume in 1995, which included bath and beauty products.

In 1999, the Council of Fashion Designers of America presented her with the Timeless Talent Award, in recognition of her ability to change with the times and her continued success in the fashion business for over 3 decades.

As Betsey Johnson enters her 40 years of designing, new generations of fans discover her inimitable creations that are fun with a rock & roll twist.

Betsey Johnson

Betsey Johnson

Betsey Johnson

Betsey Johnson