The names of accomplished style divas Zandra Rhodes and Betsey Johnson rush to my mind when I think of over the top designers, who are as vibrant and bold as their fashion empires.
Both Johnson and Rhodes bear striking similarities as well as differences in their approaches. Born in the early 40′s both had design philosophies that were over the top, feminine and provocative.
Rhodes, known to many as the ‘princess of punk’ had been a pioneer in using safety pins as beading embellishments and attained great fame for her rich textiles. For this internationally renowned designer, textiles have been always dynamic things and allowed them to dictate the shape of the clothing.
Zandra Rhodes is a fabulous party for which you would crave for an invitation. American designer Betsey Johnson is equally zestful. Johnson, whose early life was immersed in dance and costumes built a brand that still resonates for its theatrical girls-just-want-to-have-fun aesthetics. Since the 60s she has been on the vanguard of American style with her sci-fi noise dresses. Clearly ahead of her time, Johnson, gave her youthful zest to the core consumers by creating exactly what they wanted.
Xodahlings
by Rebecca Alexis
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