Quotes from Betsey Johnson

I used to design for my body, which was flat-chested with big hips. That's why my clothes were tight on top with full skirts.

I hate to say it, but the truth is that the upscale line is where I get respect as a designer. The higher the price range, the higher the respect level from the industry, even though it's much easier to make a great $500 dress than a great $100 dress.

I've always been very into interior design, and I can't stand to have anything in my apartment that I don't aesthetically love.

My prom dress was very sweet, very puffy, but I also wore little stiletto, pointed-toe heels, nylon hosiery, the whole nine yards.

I just feel the traditional runway format is old-fashioned.

I remember in 2004, I had three gorgeous transgender models on the runway. That was my strength, in a way. That I did what I thought was gonna work, and I never paid attention to the industry's rules.

I love New York. You want to find out if you're any good? Try New York. Who sang that? Frank Sinatra? If you make it here, you can make it anywhere.

With over 3 million women battling breast cancer today, everywhere you turn there is a mother, daughter, sister, or friend who has been affected by breast cancer.

It is a special, weird thing being a cheerleader. You need to want to yell and perform, dance, and wear a cute little costume. It's a thing you're kind of born with or without.

I've always been a little off, but it's worked really well for me, and it still works. After so many years, you have a look, you become a brand, la la la.

Celebrate the idea that you don't fit in. Find your own fit. Stay unique.

Real success is being totally indulgent about your own trip. You put your blinders on about the garbage and go full speed ahead.

I hate to say it, but the truth is that the upscale line is where I get respect as a designer. The higher the price range, the higher the respect level from the industry, even though it's much easier to make a great $500 dress than a great $100 dress.

My favorite song will always be 'Layla' by Derek and the Dominos, because my granddaughter was named after it.

I was always dancing and acrobatics was my specialty.

It's just been so heartwarming to see my clothes on people in wheelchairs and people needing physical support.

Oh, I love the kids more than any other age group. I hate to say that, but new life is with new kids, you know? They're the future. The sheer fact that they're young and eager, that's what makes them rule.

There is an excitement about having nightmares.

I was a cheerleader for nine years!

A good use for me is to let me go away with my sewing machine and come back with some really new stuff.

I realized that my strength was being different.

I never studied fashion design.

I don't feel comfortable without my makeup on. I've got to have my lipstick! I just don't feel like the same person, and I don't like the way I look without makeup.

You have to hold onto your fantasy.