Designer Betsey Johnson was all the rage in 1971. Her bright, bold designs for Alley Cat were spectacular, and her knitwear was especially unique. While her ‘Flock of Birds’ dress has received almost iconic status, other of her lesser-known designs were also completely fabulous. Case in point: these wonderful ‘Happy People’ Dresses from the April 1971 issue of Glamour magazine! 
The Happy ‘people’ dress (above photo) is from Alley Cat by Betsey Johnson, of Dacron and cotton knit, $40 (in 1971). Bright multicolor ‘people’ knitted into these clothes are just the beginning of their appeal. A whole spectrum of brilliant colors – neon yellow, red, pink, light them up and give them a happy essence.
The short sweater (above photo) with brightly-colored ‘people’ is worn here with a bright jacquard skirt. Both Alley Cat by Betsey Johnson of Dacron and cotton knit. Sweater, $20; skirt, $32 (in 1971). Here’s to the whimsically unique designs of Betsey Johnson! May she forever reign. 🙂
~Marilyn
I'm Marilyn, and I'm obsessed with vintage clothing, thrift stores, clotheslines, and Chanel. Welcome to my down-to-earth world!
Are these Happy People dresses to be found anywhere today? I am always on the lookout. Had the yellow dress in the 70s and for some insane reason gave it away. I have trying to replace it for many years.
Hi Abigail,
Probably your best best for finding this dress would be on eBay. It would be a long shot, but worth a try. Too bad you gave yours away! I gave away all my clothes too – no one thought back then that they would one day be collectible.
~Marilyn
I have a happy people dress if interested please reach out! 😉 Lillian