Amy Arbus photographed Katy K. and John Sex[3] for her column in The Village Voice, which appears in her book On the Street: 1980-1990.

[citation needed] Nicknamed the "reigning Crinoline Queen" in the 1980s by New York Magazine, Katy K. sold her designs at Fiorucci, Screaming Mimi's, and Patricia Fields.

"[2] Katy K.'s close friends included Joey Arias, John Sex, Keith Haring, and Klaus Nomi.

[citation needed] Her second annual fashion show at The Gas Lite Lounge included performances and attendance by Joey Arias and Kitten Natividad.

"[7] In 2004, Katy K. brought burlesque to Nashville with her show at Mercy Lounge, called Girlesque V. She originated at Exit/In a few years earlier.