BETSEY JOHNSON FALL/WINTER 2011
by Hope Adela Pasztor
What can I say? Betsey Johnson’s Fall/Winter 2011 collection was absolutely spectacular. As a long-time Betsey Johnson fan, I was incredibly excited to have the privilege of attending this show at this season’s Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. Although Betsey Johnson’s shows are renowned for their funkiness and originality, I certainly wasn’t prepared for this endorphin-inducing extravaganza.
The first part of the show presented an almost punky flapper meets 1990’s grunge singer look with purple and black checkered skirts, complete with lace-up corset tops and smart shiny black hairstyles inspired by Louise Brooks. These tough love outfits transitioned into more bohemian and flamboyant looks consisting of turquoise, orange, and purple psychedelic print maxi dresses and ruffled kimono tunics. I was positively drooling in my seat at the sighting of a billowy robe-like purple number!
As the lights dimmed, I expected to see Betsey Johnson make one of her famous runway appearances. Imagine my surprise when not one, but a dozen models trooped out from the wings, sporting platinum blonde wigs with bangs in honor of the designer. These outfits were more laid back and ready to wear: brightly colored tee shirts, flirty patterned dresses and the like.
After the last Betsey Johnson imitator had left the runway, the designer herself trooped down the runway. Dancing around like the hilarious fashion mastermind she is, she grabbed a front row audience member for a quick spin, followed by (you guessed it!) a playful cartwheel. Just when I thought everything was over, a league of models dressed like giant pink roses paraded onto the runway, in honor of today’s Valentine’s Day celebration.
I don’t have a boyfriend, nor have I done anything remotely romantic on this day of love and romance. However, it can be said without a doubt that Betsey Johnson’s Fall/Winter 2011 collection made this the best Valentine’s Day one could possibly wish for.
I want to say a HUGE thank you to the team at Chictopia for giving me the opportunity to attend this season’s Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. It has been a wondrously magical experience, in terms of both pure fun and fashion career experience. I will never forget this week. THANK YOU!
