How Betsy Johnson Influenced Me

Betsy Johnson has always been an idol of mine. Not because of her whimsical designs, but because she embodies what it means to be a woman not blinded by societal definitions of beauty and sexiness. While her designs are feminine and sexy in some fits, they're still edgy and offbeat with outlandish patterns. When looking in your closet, do you strive to put on something that will brighten up your spirit and show who you truly are?


As Betsy Johnson would say, "Girls do not dress for boys. They dress for themselves, and of course each other. If girls dressed for boys, they'd walk around naked all the time." Well I agree there is truth to that, there are a lot of women that walk around practically naked in our current culture. Some women dress for women (i.e., dressing for fashion), but I also believe there are a great number of females dressing for men (i.e., dressing to show off their curves). I'm not here to tell you which is best, but rather, let you know that it's okay if you dress in a way that doesn't highlight your seductive physique.

Much of my life, I've never felt "womanly enough" because I was never enthusiastic about putting on a pair of heels and form-fitting dress to go out. I prefer my oversized sweater, skinny jeans and Dr. Marten's. As you can imagine, this has caused some controversy in my personal life, but it has also brought me to a place of finally accepting who I am, as well as my personal style choices.

Sticking to the style of dress that makes you most comfortable can become difficult when it seems everywhere you look less equals more. Instagram is infamous for this - girls posing scantily clad while admiring their reflection. Again, I am not bashing this... I'm saying this from the truest, most heart-felt place that you don't have to do that to be sexy. Sexiness is how confident you are with you - not if you're wearing something that accentuates your silhouette. I'm not saying never wear a dress and heels - even I do that! I'm telling you to make sure you're doing it for you, and you alone. Remember, different is beautiful and necessary, so embrace what makes you different, and cherish it because there is only one YOU!

(Hugs)