Long before Beyonce donned a Bettie Page wig and became Hunny B, beautiful women in contorted positions, curled hair and round hips were the epitome of sex appeal and fantasy. From Jane Mansfield to Dita Von Teese, the art of the Pin-Up is alive and seductively kicking and recently I got to experience the feminine power that is the pin-up girl.
My Day as a Pin-up
So what do I have in common with Marilyn and Betty (besides a sizeable rack and penchant for alcohol)? When I reached Celeste Giuliano’s Philadelphia studio I would soon find out. Vintage movie posters lined the walls opposite ceiling-high closets packed with polka dot and sailor inspired dresses, high waisted shorts and enough stacked heels to make any vintage lover swoon. In the corner across from the makeup and hair stations was a retro 1940s salon hair dryer and a bubblegum pink stove sitting in the studio. Celeste spares no novelty in her retro wonderland where she transforms everyday women into beautiful, pin-ups. This isn’t just her business, it’s her way of life.
A dark-haired, petite and bubbly woman Celeste, who attended the University of the Arts, greeted me, introduced me her all girl (and highly experienced) team and showed me the outfits she chose based on our phone consultation. A red polka dot halter dress, a navy sailor dress with a sweetheart neckline and the dress I ultimately wore, a cherry print halter dress with neon green straps were picked with the expertise of a professional with over 10 years experience. Garters clasped, hair coiffed in cascading victory rolls and my face unrecognizably beautiful, I was ready for my close-up.
A bright red backdrop set with a white oval mirror, vintage hat boxes, gloves and a compact mirror awaited. My own personal dressing room. What I thought would be awkward and feel like extreme dress-up, felt natural and empowering. As I tucked my knees in and thrusts my hips out I felt womanly powers flowing through me. Walking in the footprints of some of the sexiest women alive and damn did it feel good. Before I knew it, Celeste said “You’re finished.” I walked away feeling euphoric and wishing I could live as a pin-up every day.
How to bring a little Pin-Up Sex Appeal in your life
Pin-ups will always be the mysterious vixens that stare seductively from a photo, whether it’s for war soldiers missing the comforts of home or a crowd of fans at a burlesque revue. In the brief time that I donned garters and a ruby red pout, I realized that any woman can bring a bit of pin-up sex appeal to her everyday life.
1) Buy a pair of garters and wear them to the supermarket
2) Opt for a devil red manicure instead of your usual pale pink
3) Unbutton the top 3 buttons on your cardigan (be work-appropriate of course).
Ultimately, the feminine power of the pin-up is in knowing that true sex appeal and beauty transcends time and that every woman can be a pin-up.
For more information or to book your own Pin-Up photoshoot visit Celeste Guiliano.
I just have to say that I am in love with your layout. The blog is beautiful.
@ Alicia: Thanks! Gotta love WordPress and their millions of themes : )
I adore Beyonce’s newest artistic manifestation. But after those feelings of admiration/inspiration/asking myself why i don’t have more high-waisted shorts in my life, like you, I’m pursing my lips and shaking my head. I mean sure, it’s a lovely revival and makes it easier for gals like us to wear gloves while grocery shopping, but let’s give credit where credit is due. Also, her lavender heels make me sigh a bit.
@ Shawn Tina: lol. I asked myself the same thing.. going to stock my 50′s attire.
[...] Stylish Thoughts: Spend a day learning the art of the pin-up. [...]
yeah, i bought two pin up suits from here:http://www.etsy.com/shop/TheRedDolly