PinUp Girl Boutique

If you’ve read Retro Girl’s Guide, then you know how much I love PinUpGirlClothing.com (PUG). You know that I respect this business run by strong, beautiful women and you know more than anything else that I love their clothing styles and quality. Needless to say, I was giddy like a child waiting for Santa in anticipation for the opening of the Pinup Girl Boutique that just launched in Burbank, California.  Sadly, I missed the grand opening event, but the pictures and stories look just as fabulous as you can imagine.  I couldn’t however, let the first week go by without stopping in... And when my friend asked for my help today in shopping for a new dress, I knew right where we were heading.  

The shop is located on the charming Magnolia Boulevard and is a perfect addition to the vintage shops, eclectic boutiques and retro flavor that paves this trendy Burbank area.  The windows of the store are lined with mannequins staged in vintage-style settings all wearing PUG ensembles. It was the website brought to life.  A decadent, crystal chandelier dangles above the cash register which is surrounded by walls of gorgeous retro creations. The dresses, skirts, tops and accessories that I have bookmarked dozens of times are displayed beautifully to touch, feel and best of all try on. Online is nice, but nothing compares to experiencing it in person. It was heaven.

We were greeted by the lovely Margarita who was friendly, helpful and beautiful. She guided us through the store and told us about upcoming outfits that were soon to be arriving. She was warm and welcoming and made it feel as if we were shopping with another girlfriend. And then my style crush walked in - Doris MayDay. Whenever I fall in love with an outfit or a special look online, it inevitably is modeled by Doris. She has a special authenticity of a bygone era that is rarely captured by modern-day pinups. Most girls try to mimic “the look” and several come close, but Doris MayDay IS the look. And on top of all that retro gorgeousness, she is the biggest sweetheart. It was just as much fun chatting with her as it was seeing all of the beautiful PUG-wear in person. It truly was the website brought to life.

My girlfriend walked away with two knock-out dresses - including this adorable black-and-pink "pink elephant" dress modeled by Doris - (I’m such a bad influence - or good one depending on how you look at it) and I’m bringing her back for a Michiline Pitt makeover. I can’t wait to see the make-up diva in action and the transformation of my friend into a vintage vixen. I’ll be sure to document the event and share it here. The PUG gals also plan to have other events and parties at this fabulous boutique so be sure to “like” them on Facebook and visit their new PUG community, Pinup Girl Style.  All this glamour... on a Wednesday!  *Swoon!*

Glam in the Shower with Dry Divas

www.DryDivas.com

In the fifties women would sleep in curlers or spend a day at the beauty salon each week to get their signature hair-dos. To keep their look fresh and their curls in tact for the week ahead, shower caps were an essential part of the beauty regimen.

Flash forward... it’s 2012 and while most women don’t sleep in curlers anymore (although some retro girls still use them!) sometimes you want to keep your hair pristine for an extra day and that means skipping a wash. I squealed like a little girl when I saw these gorgeous shower caps by Dry Divas. Colorful patterns and a beautiful jeweled adornment makes showering a glamorous affair. And while they are meant for the bath, this just might be the perfect solution for maintaining dry hair while lounging in the pool or the relaxing for the day at the spa.

This is also ideal for my young daughter. She is blessed a mound of gorgeous hair that naturally looks like we put hot rollers in it and some days we skip the hassle of a wash. Dry Divas offer their caps in three sizes - Bouffant for women with long, thick hair; Ladies for us gals with cute, shorter dos; and Kids for, as they put it, darling little divas.  And for all you pin-up girls out there... how cute would these caps look in a photo shoot? I’m in love... they are different, adorable and oh-so retro. 

Pin-up Beauty Jessica Lynn Gahring

Makeup: Genn Shaughnessy
Photographer: Lorraine Murphy
www.pinupmakeover.com

I’m excited to have one of my favorite retro girls here today - the beautiful Jessica Lynn Gahring of the hit reality show, NY Ink on TLC. She’s a smart, funny, completely down-to-earth gal who loves vintage pin-up and old world glamour. She lights up NY Ink with her gorgeous style and sweet-meets-spunky personality. Here are some of Jessica’s best kept pin-up secrets for the modern retro girl!



RGG:  Hi Jessica! You have such a great style. Who are your glamour inspirations?

• JLG: I wouldn’t really say that my glamour inspirations were a specific “who” but more of a ‘what’. I am completely inspired by anything retro, vintage and glamour. I enjoy taking little pieces of a million different images and tying them together to create something that resembles a “Modern Pinup”. To be specific, I love soft curls in the hair, make up that says “I’m sexy enough to refuse you dinner if you don’t kiss me once you walk in the door from work”, clothes that cover enough of the female form but leave enough open to the imagination where a male can linger in thought at what may lay behind her concealed walls. I find glamour inspiration in classic films, pinup magazines and models, fashion blogs catered to the beautiful pinup and friends that I meet along the way... such as you, my beautiful vintage friend, Rosina! <3  

RGG: If you could go back in time and meet one famous bombshell, who would it be and what would you ask her?

• JLG: I feel like it goes without saying that I’d want to meet Marilyn and have endless deep conversations with her. I wouldn’t be content asking her just one question and my ability to converse with people would get her to open up comfortably with all of her deepest secrets (which of course I’d keep hush hush!). Specifically, I’d want to know how she dealt with that moment in time when she went from your everyday unknown pretty face to one that was recognized nationally. I would love to know what went through her mind in those moments and who she relied on for trust and inspiration.

RGG:  You have done pin-up modeling and you are on film all the time. Do you have any tips for getting comfortable in front of the camera?

Photo by Steve Prue

• JLG: There is no possible way to prepare yourself to become comfortable in front of the camera other than just becoming comfortable in front of the camera. You can practice those pinup faces in the mirror all evening long but when you start working with those photographers who have their own ideas of pinup beauty then you realize that it has to be a dual effort. I watch every episode of our show and make mental notes consisting of things like, “Ohhh, those pants are exceptionally flattering” or “Damn, I look great in that dress!” or “Do not EVER wear my hair like that again!” and then I just laugh at myself! You learn by trial and error and then improve upon that process. There is no true 360 degree mirror that gives you a complete sense of yourself like that of being on film and in front of the camera!

RGG:  Your outfits on NY Ink are gorgeous! Where do you find most of your ensembles?

• JLG: I compile my outfits from a number of locations, including my closest friends vintage businesses. However, my favorite pinup retailer is Pin Up Girl Clothing (www.pinupgirlclothing.com). They have a high-end pin up line that can be made professional or ‘dressed down’ for a naughtier look. The clothes are cut in all the right locations and are meant to flatter a curvy woman’s figure. Dear Pin Up Girl Clothing, I truly love you! <3

RGG: If you were stranded on an island, what is the one beauty item you could not live without?

• JLG: If I was stranded on an island I would never wear makeup! I’d give my face the chance to breathe and revel in the beauty of my island which I would of course rename “Dixie Island” (laughs). However, if I had to chose one item that I could not live without then it would most definitely be a bandanna. How else could I grab coconuts from the tree tops and keep my hair out of my face?! Bandannas are by far my favorite retro accessory (wig wearing or not!).

RGG: What is/are your favorite shade(s) of Red lipstick? (Every retro girl wants to know!)

• JLG: I am VERY picky about my favorite red lipsticks! I need my reds to have a hint of frost while also matching my skin tone. If the red is a matte then I apply a little bit of frost gloss just on my bottom lip to perk up the color. Currently, I have two (2) favorite reds and I choose which one I wear based on my clothing & wig choices. Enough of the tease, here are the color names: MAC VIVA GLAM III & MAC VIVA GLAM IV. Sadly, these are limited edition colors so I may have to eventually find others that grab my attention.  

RGG: I love listening to Marilyn Monroe and Anne Margaret when I’m getting ready for a night out on the town. What music do you listen to when you are channeling your inner bombshell?

• JLG: I absolutely love listening to strong female voices with a hint of rasp and blues living somewhere deep within there. To be honest, I could listen to Etta James, Imelda May and the blues side of Eric Clapton all day long. The sound is so deep and sultry that it makes me apply my lipsticks with even a hint of sexy (winks).

RGG: What is/are your favorite vintage/classic movie(s)?

• JLB: My top two (2) favorite classic films are Some Like It Hot (for it’s humorous story line) & It’s a Wonderful Life (for it’s strong focus on the devoted family)!

RGG: My personal style tends to resonate the early 60s. Do you have one particular decade that you draw your style from?

• JLG: I definitely draw a lot of my style tastes from the late 50s into the early 60s so I’m right there with you hot mama! <3

RGG: I won’t leave the house without my red lips and groomed eye-brows. What is your out-the-door must have?

• JLG: I can absolutely go without a bright red lip but I cannot go anywhere without my eyebrows groomed! My hair is so light blonde naturally that if I don’t pencil in my brows then they look as if they aren’t even there. All retro ladies know that a beautiful brow arch is cornerstone to that beautiful vintage look! I will leave the house with no other makeup on then just my brow pencil, eyeliner and mascara... but those are absolute must-haves!

RGG: Jessica, thank you so much for visiting with Retro Girl’s Guide today! You truly have a special spirit and beauty that shines both inside and out! XOXO

Jessica's beautiful artwork

• JLG: You are very welcome, Rosina! Thank you for having me! You know that I always jump at the opportunity to feel the beauty of your spirit, as well. Thank you again for my beautiful Ginger’s Jewelry Box ring and for naming that ring after me. I can’t tell you how many compliments I receive on that ring! Kisses to you, beautiful, and to all of those beautiful retro divas out there! XO

You can watch Jessica on NY Ink Thursday nights at 8:00 p.m. on TLC. Be sure to visit her website www.jessicalynngahring.com, Facebook page and follow @MsRetroDixie on Twitter.

RGG Holiday Gift Guide

Kitsch Bitsch on Zazzle

Here are some of fun retro finds for the holidays to give either as gifts or keep for your fabulous self. Enjoy!

♥

• Dry Divas Shower Caps: If you are looking for a unique gift to give the retro girl who wants to keep her curls fresh, check out the very vintage looking shower caps by Dry Divas. www.DryDivas.com

• Bettie Page Calendar by Olivia: Who wouldn’t love see beautiful Betty every month? The perfect gift for the Bettie fan in your life by the ultimate pin-up artist. Olivia's Calendar

• Faux Fur Glamour Coat: Wrap yourself up this holiday season in luxury with Stop Staring’s gorgeous retro inspired coat! Faux fur cuffs, black patent leather belt... swoon! StopStaringClothing.com

• Incoco Nail Polish: I haven’t used traditional, wet polish since I discovered the wonder of Incoco dry, press on nail polish. No mess, no fuss, and it actually lasts for two full weeks. Incoco gives you the perfect French tip, fun patterns and beautiful colors. It’s a gift that any retro girl will appreciate. www.Incoco.com

• Ritual Bath: Retro girls love being pampered. Why not give a bath line filled with “a little spirit?” Ritual Bath is a natural product line that’s illuminating, refreshing and best of all it works. I use this line religiously and can’t say enough good things about it. www.RitualBath.etsy.com

• Lolita Girl Clothing: If you are wondering what to wear this holiday season, stop on over at LolitaGirlClothing.com for gorgeous bombshell dresses (and psst! She's having a 50% off sale on Friday, December 16th!) www.LolitaGirlClothing.com

• Hand Painted Accessories: Shoes, bags, vintage accessories all hand painted and customized by Brown Magic Paint Co. by El Chucky for beauty queens everywhere.

• Besame Cosmetics: The ultimate glamour girl gift... red lips! The beautiful, vintage packaging of Besame is enough to make any retro girl swoon. Fill their stockings with a kiss. Visit Besame or shop at PinUpGirlClothing.com

• Date Night at Disneyland: Download the sweetest, 1960s CD for your Disney enthusiast. Date Night at Disneyland on Emusic (only $5!)

• Tiki Farm: If you are looking for a unique gift for the guy in your life, how about a little island love in the form of a tiki god? Tiki mugs add the perfect amount of kitsch and whimsy to any bar. www.TikiFarm.com for all things tiki.

• Dungaree Dolly Handbags: Girls love handbags and retro girls will love a bag by Dungaree Dolly! Polka dots, leopard, bows...  All stitched by hand by designer, Dolly! www.dungareedolly.com

• Plasticland: There’s something for every retro girl and guy over at the kitschy shop, Plasticland. From dresses, to accessories, to home decor and everything else in between, you’re sure to find a unique gift for even the most difficult to shop for. My favorites: this adorable, pink cuckoo clock and these kissing poodles salt and pepper shakers. www.shopplasticland.com

• Cards & Accessories: Send a little bit of elegantly designed kitschy snark this holiday season and visit the Kitsch Bitsch on Zazzle for all of your retro needs. Neck ties, thank you cards, party invitations, mouse pads, holiday greetings and even postage stamps are just some of the fun things you'll find by the clever Kitsch Bitsch.

• Cocktail Rings: Give the gift of glamour this holiday season with a vintage inspired, granny chic cocktail ring from Ginger's Jewelry Box. These hand-beaded rings are full of personality - like "Helen on Wheels" and "Margie Takes Manhattan." Visit www.GingersJewelryBox.com or Etsy shop, www.GingersJewelBox.etsy.com

• Hostess Aprons: The holidays are a time for parties and celebrating. Hostess aprons are the perfect touch for your festive soiree. HeavenlyHostess.com has a beautiful selection of half aprons, full aprons and matching mits. Also visit, Suburban50s on Etsy for more retro aprons and vintage patterns.

• Retro Lingerie by Voluscious: If you are looking for a bit of retro inspired spice with a side order of kitsch, check out indie designer Kayla Rich-Martin and her line, Voluscious. Sexy ensembles in fun patterns such as comic book heroes, leopard, tiki, cherries, classic monsters and much more. www.Voluscious.etsy.com

• Retro Sunglasses: Keep the sun out of your eyes in style with retro sunglasses found at Unique-Vintage.com. (And go ahead and check out the dresses... you know you want to!)

• Lucky Lou Tiki Shoes: Gorgeous, retro inspired and completely hand-carved, you’re walking on art in Lucky Lou’s. The perfect one-of-a-kind gift. Visit www.luckyloushoes.com

• The Flower Tiki: And to go along with the new, tiki shoes how about tiki hair accessories? These custom, handmade hair pieces are perfect for the pin-up in your life. Visit The Flower Tiki on Etsy: www.TheFlowerTiki.etsy.com

• Margarita Bloom: A delightful stocking stuffer is Margarita-Bloom’s retro skin care holiday line, Tinsel, Bell and Holly Wreath Cinnamon Sugar Scrub. Beautifully designed and oh-so yummy!! www.Margarita-Bloom.com

• Vintage Inspired Wall Clock: If you are looking to turn back the hands of time, why not look up (on your wall, that is)? This starburst wall clock by Chaney is a retro find.

• Vintage Hair Styling Book: If your pin-up girl is looking for a how-to book on vintage styles, get her this book, Vintage Hair Styling, by Lauren Rennells for step-by-step techniques.

• Sew Retro: If you know a DIYer (Do It Yourself-er), then this retro sewing book is just thing to make their spirits bright this season. www.sewretrothebook.com

Retro Beauty Queen - Margarita Bloom

I love Twitter. Because of Twitter I stumbled upon this amazingly gorgeous, richly retro, beauty and skin care line called Margarita Bloom. I instantly fell in love with the design, wit and details of every inch of this website. Every bottle, every label, every word is filled with nostalgic kitsch, wit and glamour.

Category names like Martinis in Manhattan, Old Hollywood Glam and Beach Bonita add to the fun and flirty product lines. This website is so well designed that I could just spend all day clicking, oohing and ahhing over the black and white photos posted on each product page. Lip balm, foot scrub, lotions and cleansers take on a retro twist with this incredibly creative, beautifully designed vintage-inspired beauty line!

And here's a special coupon just for RGG readers: Type in coupon RetroGirlsRule at checkout and get 20% off your $50+ order at www.Margarita-Bloom.com through the end of September!