Runway Looks for Less: Betsey Johnson Fall 2011
When you think wild and crazy runway looks, Betsey Johnson is probably the first name to pop into your head. Betsey Johnson has made her name in fashion by creating fantastical, over-the-top, inspired looks.
This season, Johnson’s fall runway show didn’t disappoint – she mixed a variety of animal prints with florals, studs, tweeds and leathers. Betsey Johnson is the original fashion wild child so it’s only appropriate for us to use her designs as inspiration for edgy party looks.
Want to get Betsey Johnson’s wild Fall 2011 looks for less? Check out our 3 looks perfect for a night on the town:
Look #1: Fur Fever
Betsey Johnson turned up the volume on this simple A-line dress by pairing it with a zebra print bodysuit and a zebra print fur collar and cuff. This look screams “look at me!” while somehow still looking balanced.
Getting the Look:

{Dress, Tights, Collar, Booties, Bag}
To get Betsey Johnson’s animal-licious look, we start with a basic black a-line dress. (If you want a dress with a little more edge, try this leather a-line dress from H&M.) Zebra print black tights add the animal edge. Next, trim the outfit with a grey fur collar and grey booties and finish the look off with a studded bag. If you want a wilder look, you can switch the fur collar for a fur jacket.
Look #2: Red Vixen
Sometimes the most unexpected combinations make the best outfits: Here, Betsey mixes tartan plaid and a sheer maxi skirt. You wouldn’t expect these two elements to work together, but Ms. Johnson’s styling makes them come together perfectly. The combination makes for a sweet yet sultry look that’s perfect for fall.
Getting the Look:

{Skirt, Top, Jacket, Booties, Bag}
Let’s start with the sweet side of the outfit: the sheer maxi. For this look, I chose a burgundy maxi skirt and paired it with a red plaid shirt. To add edge to the ensemble, add a black leather jacket and black lace-up booties. Accessorize with a black turn-lock tote. This look would be perfect for a night spent listening to your favorite band in the local pub.
Look #3: Sexy Sequin
In this look, Betsey Johnson combines three completely different patterns and textures to create an over-the-top, statement-making look. Most people wouldn’t think to pair zebra, floral and sequins in one look, but as we all know, Betsey is not afraid to take chances. This fiery look, in our opinion, turned out to be well worth the risk.
Getting the Look:

{Jacket, Dress, Clutch, Shoes, Tights}
I built this look from the dress up, starting with a black and red polka dot frock. I then paired it with a head-turning sequined blazer (a total fall must-have!). I then added an unexpected twist with a pair of zebra print tights – they’re opaque enough to add a little extra oomph to the look without being overbearing. Don’t forget to add a pair of fierce red booties. Keep the accessories simple, adding just a basic black clutch. This look would be perfect for a wild night on the town.
Your thoughts?
What do you think about Betsey Johnson’s fall collection? Which look is your favorite? What designers are your dying to see featured next? Tell us in a comment!
Posted on on September 7, 2011 / Filed Under: Fashion Tips / Tags: Betsey Johnson, Designers, Edgy, Fall 2011, Plaid, Runway Looks for Less




















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Mina
I love the fur look! It’s so fun.
I like Betsy Johnson. I wore a dress by her to my junior prom.
Jen
Ahh I want those tights! The link isn’t working, though. Does anyone know where I can get them?
Zephyr - CF Editor
Jen – Fixed the link! Should be working fine now; sorry about that!
Jenna
I love Betsey Johnson! She was an Alpha Xi Delta….
Can you post more like this? Maybe do one by Christian Siriano so we can be fierce?
Brigi
I like the last look very much! It’s so unique for me. This outfit shows us how good and well balanced taste Betsey has!
Kate
This model looks just like Jessie J!!
Alexa
great looks! Half of her Fall 2011 show was actually part of her new Pink Patch line where everything will be under $100, so excited for it.
brittany
the clothess aree soo wonderfull i want to be a clothes desinger one day can anyone helpp mee ! im only in the 7th grade thoe ! ((((((: