Runways, designing, and having an eye for fashion and life itsel,; become my immediate thoughts when I think of Betsey Johnson. Who knew that in her later years, she would keep adding talents up her sleeve, now adding painter to the list.
When the queen of fashion invites you to a tea party, you go to a tea party. Follow Knockturnals’ experience into the “Luv Urself Event.”
January 17 marked a dazzling spectacle at The House on Sunset, where the one and only Betsey Johnson and the captivating model Gabbriette threw a tea party fit for fashion royalty. This wasn’t your grandma’s tea and crumpets affair; it was the “Luv Urself Event,” celebrating Betsey’s Spring/Summer 2024 collection and campaign in style.
Picture this: a venue transformed into a dreamland of glamour, overflowing with tea, cake, and Betsey Johnson as your queen of fashion royalty, and what better way to celebrate royalty than to have the swanky vibes of LA’s Monty’s Good Burger – a vegan haven that even the carnivores couldn’t resist. And who graced this wonderland? None other than a star-studded guest list including the likes of Matty Healy, Chloe Cherry, Jesse Jo Stark, Drumaq, Stassie Karnanikolaou, Amanda Lepore, Avani Gregg, and the dynamic duo Victoria & Sofia Villarroel, just to name a few.
The crowd at The House on Sunset wasn’t just a sea of faces; it was a vibrant showcase of Betsey Johnson’s iconic influence on fashion. As guests entered the enchanted realm of the “Luv Urself Event,” it was evident that everyone had taken a page from Betsey’s bold and eclectic style playbook. The fashion-forward attendees adorned themselves in a kaleidoscope of archival dresses, each piece a nod to Betsey’s daring and unconventional designs that have become synonymous with self-expression. From whimsical prints to vibrant colors, the event turned into a runway of glamour, where every guest celebrated Betsey’s legacy by showcasing their unique interpretation of her distinctive and ever-inspiring fashion aesthetic. It was a living, breathing tribute to the queen of quirky couture, creating a visual feast that mirrored the exuberance and creativity that defines Betsey Johnson’s timeless appeal.
As the night unfolded, it became clear: this wasn’t just a fashion show; it was a celebration of self-love and all things fabulous. The atmosphere buzzed with creativity as industry creatives mingled, making every corner a photo-worthy backdrop for instagram.
But wait, there’s more! Rupaul’s Drag Race Queens Gottmik, Jaida Essence Hall, and Naomi Smalls took the stage, giving us performances that left our jaws on the floor. DJ Aquaria kept the party pumping all night long, turning The House on Sunset into the hottest dance floor in Hollywood.
And can we talk about Betsey Johnson stealing the show? The queen herself took center stage, and the crowd erupted in cheers and applause. It was a unanimous decision – Betsey was the true queen of the night, and we were all just lucky enough to be in her fabulous realm. Her humble words touched our hearts and we could have not been more grateful than to share that space with her that night.
In a city that thrives on glitz and glamour, the “Luv Urself Event” wasn’t just another soirée; it was a spectacular fusion of fashion, music, and unapologetic self-expression. Betsey Johnson and Gabbriette, take a bow – you’ve given LA a night to remember, and we can’t wait for the encore!
Want to see more? Check out our reel!
On Tuesday, the iconic fashion designer, Betsey Johnson, celebrated her 80th birthday with LA’s hottest influencers and celebs. The event was held at Lombardi House in Hollywood and Selling Sunset’s, Christine Quinn was in attendance.
In true Betsey fashion, shirtless men with beefy muscles greeted guests with rose at the door. Old TVs and colorful, yellow and green lawn chairs were sprinkled throughout the venue as bartenders wearing “BOYS <3 BJs” offered the crowd pink Palomas and ice cold margaritas. Vintage pink flamingos laced the lawn making for the perfect photo op. The designer who turned 80 on August 10th also released a new “80th birthday collection” that many LA it girls were seen sporting during the event. Euphoria star, Chloe Cherry, was seen wearing one of the latest collection’s highlight pieces: a body con, rosy printed black dress that she paired with matching combat boots; pushing the narrative that the “teenage dirtbag” Tumblr era is back. The trend (teenage dirtbag) surfaced earlier this summer on TikTok for a reason. And Betsey Johnson is not new to the “too cool for school” aesthetic. She pretty much invented the idea that minimalism is lame when creating her brand back in the 80s. With tattoo inspired designs fused with recognizable pink ballerina tulle, her maximalism attitude can’t be missed. Betsey Johnson’s universe is the epitome of fusing a masculine and feminine approach to fashion creating a name for herself that is known to be whimsical and fun even at age 80.
Rupaul’s Drag Race contestant Gottmik and the audience went wild. The crowd cheered in delight as Betsey danced alongside, eventually going into the splits. “I wish I was that flexible at 80,” was overheard as fans whipped out their iPhones to catch the performance in action. Makeup guru and internet sensation, James Charles, was seen in a matching pink blazer pant set while taking videos of Betsey as she sang. Benito Skinner, Larsen Thompson, Charlotte McKinney, Joy Corrigan, and Carmella Rose were also amongst the crowd – Talk about a guest list.
It’s no surprise that Betsey Johnson is stillas spunky, badass and relevant as she always has been. She’s crushed the idea that women need to be “ladylike” in order to be respected. Instead to Betsey, being cool is all about being authentically you. Her punk rock mentality has shifted into her designs with her new Halloween inspired spider motif patterned fits. Her accessories make a statement, like the champagne bucket-shaped bag or the birthday cupcake clutch. Betsey Johnson’s brand is always 2 steps ahead, pushing political ideologies and fashion alike. Happy birthday, Betsey!
Betsey’s 80th birthday collection is now available for purchase.
The People’s Choice awards are always fun to watch but also a great place to get some glam inspiration for all the upcoming holiday events. Thanks to Tresemmé and celebrity stylists Ryan Richman, and Justine Marjan we’ve got the breakdown on how to have the most gorgeous hair, from right off the People’s Choice Awards red carpet this holiday season.
On Saturday, August 21st, Betsey Johnson and Sparkling Ice held a pool party at the one and only Infinity House in South Hampton.
This year marks Betsey Johnson’s 50th year as an iconic designer and we had access backstage for all the fun and glitter in addition to the extravagant show.