Known for her eclectic style, love of pink, lace and tulle, designer Betsey Johnson appeals to the woman who wants to make a statement by wearing clothes that are girlie yet designed for a strong and captivating individual.

The Fashion Committee of the National Arts Club (NAC) awarded Johnson with their 2009 Medal of Honor for Lifetime Achievement in Fashion, and ESSENCE.com was on the scene to see this design star being saluted in high-fashion form. Rocking the fashion industry with her creativity and one-of-a-kind flare since 1960, Johnson turned herself into an international household name brand with over sixty retail stores, lingerie, shoes, accessories, home décor and fragrance lines.

Chrishaunda Lee, National Arts Club Chair of the Fashion Committee, (pictured right with Johnson) said that when the committe members were thinking about this year's recipient, Johnson was unanimously selected and we understand why!

"It is an extreme honor for the Fashion Committee of The National Arts Club to have the privilege of formally recognizing the unmatched visionary talent we call Betsey Johnson with the Lifetime Achievement Award for Fashion," says Lee. "Her vivacity and timeless message of an energized and inspired life through her designs has influenced the fashion industry for over three decades and runs parallel to our mission statement at The National Arts Club."