Photo illustration by Blanca Navarro
Whether you are getting gussied up for a big date, a holiday party or New Year’s Eve, a different style that fits any special occasion is the pin-up look. The term pin-up generally refers to models and centerfolds, but it can also correspond to the graphic and often cartoon-like images of turn of the century models.
Some of the most notorious pin-up models that have heavily influenced the rockabilly culture and look include Bettie Page, Betty Grable, Veronica Lake and Ava Gardner.
Bettie Page, although perhaps lesser known than Marilyn Monroe (who actually has more covers!), contributed her infamous bangs to the modern rockabilly and pin-up look that is used today. The “Bettie bangs” are a staple for women in the rockabilly culture.
For ladies who wish to mimic these glamour turn of the century styles, a few essentials will help you on your way.
Perfect hair accessory:
A flower or bow can compliment any outfit, spicing up both casual or evening wear. With some help from Michaels and a glue gun, hair flowers are easily made at home, which also makes them more unique. Clipped into the side of a down style, or with a victory-roll updo, accessories always had a flare.
Polka Dots:
The awful polka dots of your parents ‘70s youth is no more. Today one can easily match the trendy print with cuffed jeans or even a black pencil skirt.
Leopard Print:
No longer is the animalistic jungle print associated with Peggy Bundy from Married With Children. The print, often seen in re-prints with Bettie Page posing provocatively either on top of rugs, in costumes or next to actual leopards, is a staple in the rockabilly trend. But like all things, this should be used in moderation. Too much leopard and things can get ugly. Usually the print is to add a splash or something special to an otherwise average outfit. A leopard cardigan can go a long way, especially with a basic black tank or T-shirt.
Petticoats/crinolines:
The once torturous requirements that women in the 19th century were imprisoned by are actually still around! Used frequently for volume and to give an extra boost to any swing style dress, they add flair and fun to your party dress. No lady needs limp and lifeless fabric in their party dress when these updated (thus more comfortable) petticoats and crinolines will add spring to your swing.
Red lipstick:
With the advances that technology has made, it’s no wonder that cosmetics have taken giant leaps forward since the original era that made red lipstick so sexy. With various shades of red that can literally match any skin tone, all day wear and smudge proof qualities, it’s a wonder more women don’t don sexy lips. With an application that can last all night, red lips are the perfect finish to the perfect pin-up look.
Additional tips to help you along with the perfect pin-up look would be to lay a thick coat of black eyeliner, with the ends winged out. The cat-eye liner will draw attention to your eyes and very little shadow is needed with this look. It goes especially well with sultry red lips.
Whether you are new to trying out this style, or a longtime participant of the rockabilly and pin-up culture, these basics should help you on your way or for that one big night out!