Betsey Johnson Store Is Coming To Seattle

Fresh out of college and a guest-editor job at Madamoiselle magazine, Betsey Johnson burst on the psychedelic fashion scene in the mid-'60s and achieved instant fame with vinyl dresses and crazy bell-bottom pants. She was dubbed the ``Princess of Punk.''

Now she's the head of a multimillion-dollar apparel firm that bears her name, as do 11 stores that carry her clothes. The newest will open here Saturday at 1429 Fifth Ave.

Attending one of her New York fall or spring openings is a circus. Models, often led by Johnson, shimmy down the runway to loud, loud music.

When you look at some of the outfits you wonder who will wear them. But if you take them piece by piece you can see why she has become so successful.

She's especially known for innovative pants, leggings and tights, and dresses with a young look. Bright colors, particularly a hot pink, are her trademark.

The Seattle store will be managed by Becky Fink.

Roehm designs

The entire fall and winter collection of high-fashion designer Carolyne Roehm will be shown at Symphoneve on Sept. 21. This is the only West Coast presentation of the entire show as it was seen in New York.

There is no black, no stark white and no neon in the collection. Designs have pyramid shaping with unconstructed shoulders, elongated collars and flaring tops over A-line skirts and kilts.

The gala black-tie dinner dance will be held at the Four

Seasons Olympic. Tickets are $250. For further information, call 443-4740.

Pante coming back

Nationally known image consultant Robert Pante will be back in Seattle to present another seminar at 6:30 p.m. July 9 at the Washington Athletic Club.

Pante has appeared on ``Oprah Winfrey,'' ``Sally Jessy Raphael'' and ``Geraldo.''. He is the author of ``Dressing to Win: How to Have More Money, Romance and Power in Your Life.''

The San Francisco-based consultant doesn't mince any words when analyzing the wardrobes of people in the audience. He's funny and opinionated and helps his audience find out what stops them from looking their best.

Anthropologist Jennifer James will speak on ``Directions for Improvement: A Look at Perception and Optimism,'' which reflects her belief that the way you see the world determines your successes or failures. She is the author of four books, including ``Women and the Blues.'' Her column appears in the Sunday Scene section of The Times.

Proceeds will benefit Big Sisters of King Country.

Tickets are $50. For reservations, mail your check to An Evening With Robert Pante, P.O. Box 27736, Seattle, WA 98125-4311. For further information, call 362-4311.

Marilyn Kirkby's column appears Wednesday in the Style section of The Times.