Why I Love PUG

As a retro loving girl, PinUpGirlClothing.com is an obvious choice for vintage inspired reproductions. Their styles range from bombshell-vavavoom to the charming girl-next-door. Their sizes fit sweet petites and the most voluptuous of vixens. Their fabrics are top quality and their clothes actually fit the provided measurements. Their shipping is lightning fast and their return policy is fair and quick. They are great. But these are not the only reasons why I admire PUG so much. Here’s a list of what makes PinUpGirlClothing a stand-out company:

Laura Byrnes - Supreme Overlord:  Laura Byrnes is the founder and creator of PUG. She has cultivated not just a retro clothing line, but an amazing brand. She has launched models into retro stardom and has given every girl who wears a PUG design that feeling of ultimate glamour, acceptance and beauty. She embraces and celebrates differences and truly provides something beautiful for everyone. And she does this with ease, openness and down-to-earth approachability. She abolishes stereotypes, speaks her mind and allows friends and fans of PUG to feel they are not only wearing something glamorous, but are a part of something glamorous. I don’t even know if she realizes she is doing this. She’s just that real. And it’s brilliant. Oh, and I haven’t even mentioned her photography. Amazing.

The PUG Models: Micheline Pitt, La Cholita, Masuimi Max, Doris MayDay... ring a bell? These gorgeous girls are the faces and backbone of PinUpGirlClothing. They are beautiful, they are talented and they are giving the modern bombshell a whole new meaning. What they aren’t: Just bodies for the clothes. They are personalities with big ideas that come to life through PUG. They are PUG yet they have also become their own brand, cultivating their own images and identities which have fostered and grown through this unique clothing line. There is no “cookie-cutter” PUG model. Their beauty varies in body shape, size, ethnicity, hair color and overall look. They are all different and they are all beautiful. There is a PUG girl for every shopper out there to imagine looking like. And again, it all seems so natural for this company as if none of it is planned. And it probably isn't. Or maybe it is. Either way, it works and works well.

Friendliness of PUG: The voice of PinUpGirlClothing is consistent and friendly. They truly embrace their fans and speak to them through their Facebook pages as if a friend is telling you what neat thing they just discovered. They are not just about constant self-promotion. They share interesting news with their customers. They promote their models and partners. They support other businesses. They even sometimes share their frustrations as an old pal venting after a bad day. Again, it’s very real, very relatable and they make the customer feel as if they are a part of something bigger. And then they take it one step further like their upcoming Day at Disneyland or meet-and-greets at various festivals. And let’s not forget their rockin’ yard sales. All of these events gives the retro girl a chance to be the PUG model for a day... Dress the part, wear the fabulous outfits, really do up the hair and make-up. And for some that’s just what is needed - an outting to put all this vintage glamour to good use. Afterwards fans will eagerly share their dolled up pictures in their PUG ensembles and PinUpGirl loves it.

Bottom Line: PinUpGirlClothing is much more than just a clothing line. They are a branded family of gorgeous, inspirational gals who have cultivated a glamorous club that the everyday-girl can join. Oh, and their clothing rocks too. ♥
www.PinUpGirlClothing.com

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.

Fluff n’ Doodles - Modern Retro Art

Wild Thing by FLUFF

I love the classic pin-up artists of long ago. Elvgren, Vargas and Runci are some of the original creators of the beautiful artwork that cultivated the glamorous and kitschy images of pin-ups that we all love today. Flash forward to present day... We have some wonderful modern artists who take inspiration from the greats of yesteryear and put their own spin on pin-up beauty and retro style. Here are a few of my favorites:

Olivia

• Olivia De Berardinis: Olivia is a modern day pin-up master. She has a gift of glorifying, glamorizing and celebrating femininity, sexuality and beauty of the female body. She has created numerous masterpieces of the iconic bombshells such as Betty Page and Marilyn Monroe and also beautiful art inspired by today’s pin-ups like Dita Von Teese and Bernie Dexter. My computer desk sits under a gorgeous, signed Olivia (lucky me!) and I look up at it every day for inspiration.

 Devilette by FLUFF - Claudette Barjoud

• FLUFF: I’ve recently fallen in love with the cutesy-meets-glamour artwork of Claudette Barjoud, also known as Fluff. Actually, that’s not true. I’ve been in love with her artwork for quite a while now and have purchased numerous note cards with her sassy-sexy images for various holidays and thank-yous. I repeatedly fell in love her retro, pin-up cartoons and graphic imagery, yet never knew who was behind the pen until recently. And now I love her all the more. Fluff combines a bit of rockabilly, a bit of tattoo art, a bit of 60’s mod and a whole-lotta adorable pin-up goodness! My favorite (for obvious reasons *wink*) are her brunette girls. She sells cards, apparel, totes, bags and other fun items in her store Fluffshop.com.

• Maly Siri’s Pin-Up Art & Doodles: Maly Siri is an artist from Montreal who creates illustrations of beautiful glamour girls with nostalgic flare. Even her basic rough pencil sketches are works of art before they magically transform into vintage inspired masterpieces. Her illustrations have an elegance and style reminiscent of the 1940s and like Olivia, she has featured some of today’s top pin-ups in her work. Maly is a not only an amazing artist, but has pin-up beauty herself. Check Maly Siri out on Facebook.

• Shag: What can I say about Shag (aka Josh Agle)? He’s a pioneer in lounge art and brings the cocktail to a whole new level of kitsch. He is Shag. You know his work when you see it and while others have tried to imitate his style, no one comes close to capturing the cool that he has cultivated. I have been a huge fan of his since I published Modern Lounge Magazine many moons ago when we featured him in our second issue (he’s a nice guy too!). He continues to remain the king of swank and has gone on to put his 50s swinger touch on beloved Disneyland attraction art such as the Haunted Mansion, Small World and the Enchanted Tiki Room. Shag not only draws his dreams, but he lives it. And he’s fabulous. www.Shagmart.com

The cool kids at the Haunted Mansion by Shag

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

Becoming Marilyn - Niagara

This week the much anticipated movie, My Week With Marilyn, debuts in theaters. It’s a true-life tale about one man’s memorable week spent with the iconic bombshell during her filming of The Prince and the Showgirl. In honor of the movie’s launch, they are hosting a sweepstakes to “Become Marilyn” (to enter, visit the official Becoming Marilyn Sweepstakes Facebook page).There’s only one big winner to the contest, but we retro girls can “become” Marilyn right now! All this week I will be featuring something special in honor of the beautiful woman that we all love, admire and miss. 

To start the week off here is a gorgeous dress by Dixiefried on PinUpGirlClothing.com that is directly inspired by Marilyn’s sultry outfit from the movie Niagara. They offer the dress in several colors - red, black, hot pink and white as shown here by the always stunning, Doris MayDay. You’ll wiggle your way into the hearts of many with this number!

www.PinUpGirlClothing.com

www.MyWeekWithMarilynMovie.com

Noteworthy Retro Happenings

Haunts and happenings and sales, oh my! There are several fabulous things happening over the next few weeks that are worth marking down on your calendars. 

♥ 

And since there are so many amazing modern-retro designers, events, sales, websites and much, much more happening out there, I created a Newsletter to showcase a regular listing of these special items and occasions. If you subscribe to the new Retro Girl’s Guide Newsletter, you’ll get future listings delivered right to your inbox. And if you have a special event or a retro news nugget worth sharing, please submit it and chances are it will be included. How cool is that? Now on to a sampling of the fun... 

Bob’s Big Boy 2nd Annual Car & Bike Show 
Vintage cars, pin-up girls and Bob’s burgers! Enjoy an afternoon hosted by The Pin-Up Magazine and all of the lovelies in their pin-up pageant. 
Where: Bob’s Big Boy Broiler - Downey, CA 
When: Saturday, October 22nd 
Time: 11 am - 4 pm 
Cost: $5 entry 
Contact: The Pin-Up Magazine on Facebook 


Audrey K’s Halloween Costume Contest & Girl’s Night Out 
Show off your cute costumes for a chance to win a $25 gift card to this fabulous boutique! 
Where: Audrey K Boutique - 3414 W. Magnolia Blvd, Burbank, CA 
When: Friday, October 28th 
Time: 6 - 9 pm 
Contact: www.AudreyK.com 

Lolita Girl Clothing Extravaganza Sale 
Gorgeous clothes on sale, swingin’ tunes, munchie foods and drinks to sip... sounds like a perfect Saturday! 
Where: Lolita Girl’s Showroom - 8 Whatney, Irvine CA 
When: Saturday, October 29th 
Time: 10 am - 4 pm 
Contact: www.LolitaGirlClothing.com 


Unique Vintage Halloween Haunt
Get your vintage-inspired Halloween look with costumes from the roaring 20s through the swingin’ 60s at this event hosted by The Ellen DeGeneres Show and Good Day L.A. 
Where: Unique Vintage Boutique - 2013 W. Magnolia Blvd., Burbank CA 
When: Saturday October 29th 
Time: 1pm - 5pm 
Contact: www.Unique-Vintage.com 

Cicada Club's Swingin’ 60s Halloween Costume Party 
Come dance the night away as your favorite 60s character at the art deco Cicada Club in downtown Los Angeles. 
Where: Cicada Club - 617 South Olive Street, Los Angeles CA 
When: Sunday, October 30th 
Time: Doors open at 6:00 pm. Showtime at 8pm 
Cost: $50 a ticket presale by Sunday, October 23rd. $60 after or at the door. 
Contact: www.CicadaClub.com


PinUpGirlClothing.com’s Autumn Garage Sale 
PinUpGirlClothing.com’s gorgeous goods are deeply discounted at this one day event. Enjoy the sounds of rockin’ performers such as La Cholita and say hello to your favorite PUG beauties while shopping your glamorous little heart away! 
Where: Courtyard Marriott - 700 West Huntington Drive, Monrovia CA 
When: Saturday, November 5th 
Time: 10 - 4 pm 
Contact: PinUpGirlClothing

A Very Retro Halloween

Halloween is fast approaching and it's the perfect time to play up the retro by recreating a favorite character from an iconic era. Here is a list of fun and flirty retro costume ideas to bring forth your vintage vixen. If you have more ideas to add to the list, leave your comments below. ♥

• Marilyn Monroe:  Of course I have to start with Marilyn! Instead of going for the common 7 Year Itch dress, why not grab your BFF and go as the gal pals from Gentlemen Prefer Blondes? Couple’s Tip: Have your guy dress as JFK or Joe DiMaggio.
• Ginger Grant: The sultry movie star from Giligan’s Island is the ultimate TV bombshell. A red wig, a slinky dress and a life preserver and you're all set. Couple’s Tip: Have your first mate dress as Gilligan or the Professor.
• MaryAnn: You know the ol’ question... Are you a Ginger or a MaryAnn? If your sweet n’ sexy, this other castaway is the costume for you! Here’s an adorable, checkered romper by Bernie Dexter to channel your inner “good girl.” Couple’s Tip: See Ginger.
• Bewitched: A retro miniskirt and a long, blonde flipped ‘do is just the trick to magically transform you into the sexiest witch of the 60s - Samantha Stevens.  Couple’s Tip: Have your guy dress as hubby Darren (you choose the version)  Family Tip: If you have little sweetie like I do, she’d make the perfect Tabitha.
• Lucy Ricardo: We all love Lucy. And while funny lady Lucille Ball, kept us laughing, we often forget what a gorgeous bombshell she truly was. Here’s the perfect polka dotted dress from Daddy O’s designed by Stop Starring. Couple’s Tip: Ricky! Don't forget the bongos.
• Morticia Addams: The ultimate goth queen is truly a fabulous bombshell in her long, velvet wiggle dress. Couple’s Tip: Let your guy romance the night away as the loving Gomez Addams. Family Tip: Pugsley and Wednesday!

• Pan Am Stewardess: The new television show on ABC is launching next week and so are the cute costumes like this sexy flight attendant to go along with it! Don't forget the best part... Handbags! Couple’s Tip: Have your guy dress as a pilot. Gal Pal Tip: Gather up the BFFs and go as a group. Fasten your seat belts!
• 60’s Star Trek Babe: Go-go boots and a sexy, long sleeved mini dress will beam you up as an intergalactic goddess. Couple’s Tip: Give your guy some pointy ears and transform him into Mr. Spock or ladies man, Captain Kirk.
• Vintage Sailor Girl: Last year I went as a vintage sailor girl with a dress purchased from PinUpGirlClothing. It was my favorite costume so far - especially because my handsome hubby and adorable daughter dressed up too!
• Jessica Rabbit: No other cartoon bombshell can compare to this racy Rabbit! Here's a gorgeous, red mermaid gown found at Unique-Vintage designed by Stop Starring that puts the voom in va-va-voom! (Thank you to FB fan, Ashley, for this suggestion!) Couple’s Tip: Have your date dress as a 1940s detective.
• Cigarette Girls: Vintage cigarette girls dolled up any formal event, and now you can be a doll for a night too! Check out MrsBellasDolls.com to see how real life Cigarette Girls work their magic. Bella creates all of her costumes and she is the perfect source for glamour inspiration (to learn more about Bella and her fabulous dolls, click here). Couple’s Tip: Have your date dress as an vintage usher or bell hop.
• Tiki/Hawaiian Girl: If you love a good luau, why not be a Hawaiian inspired goddess for Halloween? Hula, tiki, flowered sundress... Don’t forge your lei! Couple’s Tip: Dress your date white shorts and a Hawaiian shirt for a Blue Hawaii Elvis. Don’t forget the ukulele.

• Liz Taylor’s Cleopatra: I recently had the pleasure of experiencing Elizabeth Taylor’s version of Cleopatra on the big screen and seeing her glorious costumes come to life in vibrant technicolor. The drama and beauty of her ensembles are fit for a queen! Check out this wonderful blog Digs, Frocks & Books for images and inspiration. Couple’s Tip: dress your Richard Burton as Cleo’s love, Mark Antony. 
• Bettie Page: We all love Bettie. How about recreating one of her iconic looks and pulling out the 6” stilettos this Halloween? Couple’s Tip: The queen of pinup needs a photographer. Arm your guy with a vintage camera!
• Playboy Bunny: Take inspiration from the new television show, The Playboy Club, and wiggle your tail as a glamorous 60s bunny. Couple’s Tip: Get a smoking jacket and some silk jammies for your Hugh Heffner.

Spotlight Series: Miss Missy Photography

This week we’re shining the spotlight on Miss Missy - a gorgeous and gifted pin-up, vintage glamour and fashion photographer who knows how to truly bring out your inner beauty in every girl. From lighting to styling to provocative positioning, Miss Missy can channel the inner bombshell and transform ordinary to extraordinary.  Her work has graced the covers of numerous magazines and she has photographed some of the most beautiful pin-up models of today.  We’re excited to talk with her and showcase some of her gorgeous images. 


Enjoy this video of Miss Missy's amazing work:


RGG: Hi Missy! Thank you for visiting with us today. I am truly a big fan of your work. How long have you been a photographer and where did you get your start?
Missy: Professionally, only a little over 3 years, but I was playing with the idea for quite some time. I guess I just didn’t  realize you could make a living off something you found exciting and fun. I’m totally in love with what I do. I guess I got my start when MySpace came out. I would look at all these pin-up girls and think to myself, "I want awesome photos like they have!" So I got myself a second hand digital camera and would doll myself up and put it on a timer. My friends loved my photos and I loved how awesome I was making myself look (hehehe)! I was super excited when my friends would ask me to make them over and take their photos. It can be a very vulnerable experience, but I seem to make everyone feel at ease. I think getting photos taken can be really great for your self esteem!
   
RGG: What is your inspiration and what draws you to 50s pinup and vintage glamour? Do you have a favorite/s vintage movie star?
Missy: I've been in love with 50's glamour since I was a little girl looking at my mothers old photos. At the time I didn't really know who any famous pin-ups were and my mom was the most beautiful woman I had ever seen! I would always ask her questions about her clothing and hair. My mom wasn't always very happy, but when she talked about being young she was. Also growing up in the 80's when all those amazing movies about the 1950's came out made me more curious about this time period. I was totally in love with the movie Dirty Dancing, tried to do the dances, learned the lyrics to these old songs and even got myself a pair of Keds.  


As far as vintage movie stars go, I probably have to say Lucille Ball and Marilyn Monroe are my favorites. Then when I discovered No Doubt and Gwen Stefani rocking all these old hair dos - I HAD to learn them - and I've been hooked ever since.


RGG: You’ve worked with some incredible models, but what about the average girl who wants to be a starlet for a day? How do bring out the bombshell in them and create such amazing pieces?
Missy: Hanging around the internet for so long you become "fans" of some of these models, so I had and still have a model wish list, I think it's super important to work with models, they can teach you so much just by watching them pose and you can take that and show it to your every day girl. So many "average" women have the model in them, I think it's all about making them feel beautiful before you put the camera on them. I do 90% of the hair and makeup for my photo shoots, during this time I get to know the girl so when we do start shooting she is way more at ease with me than she was when she walked in the door. As of right now, I do not have a time limit on my photo shoots because it just takes some people longer to warm up than others. If you rush people in and out I don't think you can get good photos. I see so many women getting pin-up photos taken and you can see in their face they weren't comfortable, but all the props tend to distract you from that.   


RGG: Do you have any tips/advice for newbies who want to be a pin-up model or regular gals who want glamour photos?
Missy: Don't try to get everything for free; you get what you pay for. Study images that inspire you, pose and practice facial expressions in the mirror. I can pose your body, but not your face. I can tell you where to look, but you should know what faces look good and don't. If you have one facial expression that works stay with it. I can work around it.


YouTube some old Bettie Page footage, she was the QUEEN! She wasn't scared of her face or her body and when you are able to let go, that's when the magic happens! :)
For the girls who want a new "pin-up name" stay away from things that are kind of silly. I much rather hear a somewhat normal name than something ridiculous. I think what you name yourself can have a HUGE impact on people. 


RGG: Tell us how to schedule a photoshoot with you. 
Missy: If you'd like to book a photo shoot with me just please email me at miSSSmissy@aol.com. I live in Los Angeles.


RGG: And now for a little bit of fun... If you were stranded on a desert island, what’s the one thing you couldn’t live without?
Missy: My little girl...and my camera! :)


RGG: Chocolate or vanilla? 
Missy: Chocolate! :)


Thank you so much for joining us today! For more information and to book your session, visit Miss Missy Photography!

Website: www.MissMissyPhotography.net
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Email: miSSSmissy@aol.com