Melissa Pashayan, our 'Fab Fashionista'
We got plenty of entrants for our "Fab Fashionista" contest from stylish types who wanted to come to Fashion Week. But we were struck by Melissa Pashayan, 25, of Garden City, who admits she is Betsey Johnson obsessed.
"I've loved Betsey Johnson since middle school, she's like my hero, she's so fun and funky and doesn't care what people say. I like fashion, but I worship Betsey," said Pashayan, an art teacher and part-time (natch) Betsey Johnson saleswoman at the Roosevelt Field store.
So off we went on Valentine's Day to the Betsey show at Lincoln Center. Pashayan showed up in a little Betsey lace romper, looking so fashionable that photographers - not just ours - were snapping her picture.
First stop, the Mercedes-Benz VIP suite for hors d'oeuvres and wine, and then it was showtime. On the runway, preshow, Pashayan met celebrity stylist and TV personality Robert Verdi, and New York "Housewife" Jill Zarin.
Then came the show. "Oh my god, that coat," Pashayan said, as an animal print faux fur roared down the runway. "I have to have it." She was equally impressed by Johnson's signature cartwheel at the end of the show. "This is so amazing," she nearly screamed.
While the show was good, to Pashayan, what came next was even better. Pashayan first met Betsey BFF Patricia Fields, who costumed the "Sex and the City" gals, and then Betsey herself.
"I love you so much," Pashayan told the designer, who hugged her hard. "I actually felt like crying when I met her. This was the best day of my life."