Fashion designer Betsey Johnson knows how to make an entrance.
Johnson, who, according to our sources, had been drinking Moet & Chandon White Star champagne since 11 a.m., stumbled into an American Association of People With Disabilities VIP fundraiser leading up to Wednesday night’s leadership gala, where Stevie Wonder was to be honored.
The designer, who is known for her over-the-top styles, was beyond thrilled to be there, saying the event was “amazing, amazing, just overwhelming.” She had been tapped to promote the organization by fashion writer Marylou Luther, whose son Andrew Imparato leads the AAPD as president and chief executive officer.
The scene was SoHo chic and minimalist with flashes of pink lights around the Recording Industry Association of America reception area. Johnson embraced the crowd, sitting on the floor in her poufed dress and hugging attendees.
Before the event, Johnson was spotted reveling with her sister Sally Johnson, SB Gallery owner Fernando Batista and “Laura Ingraham Show” senior producer Nelson Lewis. Also seen at the event: Celine Dion’s husband, Rene Angelil, and Madonna Long.
When Yeas & Nays asked the designer what she thought of D.C., she said, “They sure have a style.”
“On the train ride this morning on Acela I felt, ‘Oh my God, I’m the only one on vacation here,’ ” Johnson continued. “I’m the only hippie, I’m the only one in color, but they are on it, I mean this is the place where you get all that stuff done and where it all happens from the brain and from the heart. …”
Could she envision her threads on Capitol Hill or in the White House?
“Well you know there is a certain power to a pink petticoat,” Johnson said. “I mean, it would be, you know, it would not be so funny if some Congress lady whipped out in front of the U.N. and showed her pretty coat, you know. Unthinkable. No.”
