The Hidden Brazilian Side Of The Pin-up Community

As you all know, I am on a mission to help women find their inner pin-up girl. No matter what race, shape, or size they may be. It's no secret that when people think about pinup girls they think it's only an American thing, Do to how White-Washed it was in the past and its where the pinup girl originated. But you be surprised how many countries celebrate pin-up culture as well. When I found a site called Universo Retro

I wanted to talk to the owner - well, in this case, owners.Mirella Fonzar and Daise Alves
. To get to know what it's like being a pinup girl in Brazil and get more insight into this somewhat hidden part of the pin-up community.

How did you two get into pinup fashion and lifestyle?

I used to like history, alternative style and old music, especially rock and roll. I've always searched for bands, musical genres, vintage fashion style and important events in the world, mainly of the 20th century. All this always seemed fascinating to me, so after that, I've been increasingly dedicated to vintage style.

I think it's the same with Mirella. She has always liked music like rock'n roll, jazz and blues and old musical movies too. She's a real music library. The first thing that came was the music, after the style.

Today we breathe the pin-up, retro and vintage style. Not just fashion, but also at work, with Universo Retrô website; at home, with a retro decor; parties, that we usually attend and many things around us... It's a real lifestyle.

What made you two want to start Universo Retro?

We have worked with the internet and social media in other jobs, but we would like to unite the useful to the pleasant, working with what we like. And the most important thing, we wanted to professionalize the retro subject in Brazil. There were a lot of blogs about pin-ups and retro style a few years ago, but we wanted something bigger and we think we're getting there. This month Universo Retrô is 3 years old.

How did your friends and family react to you dressing in pinup fashion?

Not too bad. The people know us, so they understand our style. In general, they think it's beautiful and we get a lot of compliments. But many people say that they think is beautiful, but do not have the courage to wear it.

What’s it like being Brazilian pinup girls?

The style is old for us, but new for others. So, if you're a pinup girl in Brazil, you're different, but much admired, because the girls tend to be more elegant and dress well.

How has the pinup community treated you two so far?

We're so happy the pin-up style is growing in Brazil. A few years ago the community was very small and now there are many girls in the style in different ways: rockabilly girls, western girls, tiki style... Recently the pin-up horror style is what's grows the most here.

What’s your advice for aspiring Brazilian pin-ups?

Don't be afraid to invest in the vintage style. The pinup style is very versatile, for all bodies and does very well for self-esteem. And research a lot about the subject. The style is so beautiful, but to know their origins is very valuable.

What To Expect At Your First Pin-up Shoot (Interview With Autumn Luciano)

I started this blog to encourage women to find their inner pin-up girl. No matter their race, shape, or size. I find that it's a common fear when women first get into the pinup community and lifestyle of having their first pin-up shoot. Because they think they have to look or be a certain way or that it's going to be awkward. I decided to talk to the owner and photographer of Decadencedolls (a pinup photography studio) Autumn Luciano about how she makes sure every woman that comes into her studio look and most importantly feel glamorous.

How and why did you start Decadencedolls?

I was just starting out my own portrait business when I inherited a bunch of vintage clothes, for fun I styled my friends as vintage pin-ups and took their photos. I put them online and got some requests for pin-up shoots, after that it just took over my life.

Do you get a lot of women who are nervous or camera shy that come into your studio? If so, how do you make them feel comfortable?

All the time, usually just talking with them about the process helps, once they have hair and makeup done and we are going through the wardrobe to pick something out at their shoot they're already more at ease, just having spent some time with myself and the stylist. Also, I always assure them that they don't need to know anything about modeling, I handle all the posing from head to toe. By the time they've seen the first pose on the back

of the camera, they are usually completely warmed up.

What can women expect when they come into your studio?

To have a fun day being glammed up, feeling like a bombshell, and leaving ready to tackle their next challenge. When they return for their portrait reveal most ladies get to see their

themselves in a way they never thought they would, and that's really the best part of my job.

What do you have to say to women who think they have to look a certain way to have a pinup shoot?

I hear all the time that women believe they are not photogenic, and I've yet to photograph anyone who was right about that. There is no such thing as being photogenic. It's all about having the right photographer, stylist, and just enough self-confidence to get yourself in front of a camera, let your creative team handle the rest. Pin-ups come in all shapes, sizes, ages. It doesn't matter if you're covered in tattoos if you don't believe you're tan enough, thin enough, or young enough, There is only one person in existence keeping you from feeling gorgeous, and that's you. Get out of your own way and go make magic happen.

Meet The Titanic Survivor Who Changed Your Sex Life

Ah, lingerie. One of the most important parts of your outfit and one of the most exciting to put on (and for your lover to take off) Most women have worn it at some point of their life either to spice things up in the bedroom or they just simply want to feel sexy for themselves. Some can't even wait until they're of-age to start wearing it, Burlesque star Dita Von Teese recalled when she would sneak in her mom's lingerie drawer (and her grandmother's too!) But who invented such a revolutionary garment?

Well, Meet Lucy Christiana:

Photo Source

Back in the ninetieth-century women wore heavy corsets with several laces for two reasons, one to get an hourglass shape. And two so on their wedding night their husband would have to undo every lace to show self-control and constraint. But when women started to play sports ride bikes and work after world war one they needed more practical undergarments to wear. Lucy wanted to make lingerie that freed women from wearing such from such a restrictive garment. So she started making corsets smaller but still visually appealing. She also popularized silt skirts and other risque lingerie.

Well, now you can tell people that a titanic survivor changed your sex life.

Now that's what I call a conversation starter!

Russian Teacher FIRED After Posing As A Pin-up Girl

Apparently, THIS is the picture that started it all...

This Russian teacher was fired after some angry parents found the picture and complained to the school. This plus size teacher was just trying to boost her confidence by wearing this swimsuit. But according to the school, the picture caused "Irreversible damage to the reputation of the teacher" (I'd hate to see what they'd do if she was wearing a bikini) the school also stated that by spreading such "frivolous" images online to promote a commercial project, she hurt the image of the school. Apparently, she broke a school code that supports "morals and ethics"

For obvious reasons The 26-year-old teacher didn't understand why she got fired Stating things such as "I do not understand why I'm getting blamed. And "It's not like I was posing in underwear or stockings" apparently she didn't even want the pictures posted on the internet but the pictures were posted on to the shop's website.

But even If she did post them online herself, who cares? I mean have these people never seen a gal in a swimsuit before? Anyways, this whole thing started a massive uproar on the internet with teachers from all over the world starting the hashtag #TheachersArePeopleToo where teachers post pictures of themselves in swimsuits to show their support for the 26-year-old teacher.

What do you all think? Was the picture too risque? or was the school overreacting?

A Taste Of Summer: Comfortable Pinup Style Beach Wear For The Everyday Women

As you all know, I love it whenever I find designers who infused their designs with vintage/pinup style fashion So when I found Summer's store I just had to find out more about it so I decided to talk to the owner of Summer Wildes:

I love your pinup name, how did you come up with it?

Wildes is actually my middle name and I think of Summer as being this cheerful, fresh-faced All-American beach girl with a retro flair – very much a pinup!

How and why did you start your online store and what inspired you to Start it?

I created Summer Wildes because I couldn’t find what I was looking for – an attractive, good-fitting, high-quality bra, sexy but not trashy. I took a course in bra development at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, and worked with a specialist consultant figuring out how to construct bras (and swimwear) and source components to my specifications. From the lingerie and bikinis, it made sense to add in other essentials such as tees, lounge pants, leggings, beach cover-up, and sweatshirts, all very much in Summer’s style.

How did you get into the pinup community? And what’s your advice for people who want to as well?

Having spent 18 years in the magazine advertising world, I came up with the idea to invent a character who would be the face of the brand. I was inspired by images of bathing suit models from the 1940s, ‘50s, and ‘60s, and commissioned a famous British pin-up artist to create Summer’s look. For anyone thinking about joining the pinup community, I’d say follow your dreams and go for it.

How do you want women to feel when they wear your products?

First and foremost, women should feel sexy and confident in everything from Summer Wildes. Superior fit, high-quality fabrics and stylish fashion (made in the USA) is the trifecta at Summer Wildes.

What product do you most recommend buying on your store?

Since it all started with the bra, that’s most certainly my favorite item to recommend. But, hey, now it’s summer beach season and a luxurious terry cloth bikini along with the accompanying goodies such as beach cover-up, lounge pants, hoodies, and tees are fabulous too.

Any up and coming products we can look forward to?

Soft cups bras are arriving in a few weeks and there is golf/tennis attire on its way too. You can sign up for our newsletter here to get the latest happenings at Summer Wildes.

How to Look Retro AND Stay Comfortable

By: Adrienne Luther

It’s Sunday morning, last night’s makeup is still caked on your cheeks, you’ve got a splitting headache, and your feet hurt. Fashion is pain, and you’ve got the blisters and bruises to prove it. (The Instagram pic was totally worth it, though!)

Nothing sounds better than staying in your pajamas, but alas, you’ve made brunch plans. Your vintage wear isn't quite hitting the mark when it comes to comfort levels, and you already know Ashley is going to show up hangover-less and glitzy.

If only there was a way you could don something cozy, vintage, and fashionable...

There is! Grab some Advil and a cup of coffee and check out these simple ways to add a hip, retro spin to your comfy clothes.

 The Go-To: A Sloppy Updo And Scarf

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This look can be a little tricky at first, but for experienced pin-up gals, it can be a great go-to for some easy styling and accessible classiness. If you’re needing some help with the bandana, check out this great tutorial. There are many awesome ways you can tie up your hair with your little scarf, but if you can’t quite get the hang of it, opting for a little neckerchief can also be a solid bet. This look is great for a retro vibe with any outfit.

80’s Style

For this look, break out your slouchiest sweater, leggings, and ballerina slippers (otherwise referred to as flats these days). Bonus points if you have some of your mom’s old stirrup pants. The 80s is your best bet for comfy clothing on the fly – these are the true origins of athleisure thanks to the era’s generous use of polyester and spandex.

60’s Spirit

This outfit is great if you’re feeling like a breezy look on a spring morning. The trick to achieving a 60s essence is accessorizing carefully and owning drapey natural fibers like some light cotton. Donning some inexpensive costume jewelry is an easy way to add to the look. If you’re really shooting for authenticity, stick to neutral colors that occur in nature – browns, tans, and whites are your best bet.

Worn Graphic Tees

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This look is especially easy to pull off – all you need is a worn vintage graphic t-shirt and some comfy pants of your choice. In this case, it’s some good ole jorts (super easy to make, by the way!) Ask your ‘rents if they have some good tees from their youth laying around – you’d be surprised! If you have a shirt that’s not quite cozy enough, there are several ways to wear down the cotton fabric to give it that true “vintage” feel. Pair your look with some adorable little saddle shoes to create a retro look that mix-n-matches vintage fashion (always fun in the 21st century!)

5)  Palazzo Pants

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Step aside leggings, these are THE comfy pants. With lots of regal fabric, this bohemian look can be styled however you please. Pair these beauties with a crop-top or a slouchy sweater. Some styles may require hemming, so be wary of length if you snag a pair! These pants are especially great if you’re bloated, too.

So there you have it – fashion doesn’t always have to be painful. Achieving a retro look can be as easy as a headscarf on a Sunday morning, or as involved as a full get-up for a night out on the town!

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Meet The Designer Bringing Fifties Style Elegance Back To The Runway

I love it when I find designers who recreated vintage fashion and add their own little twist to it, so when I came across Luna's designs I just had to know more about them.

After looking at some of her designs I wanted to find out more about them. So I asked Luna Joachim a designer located in Brookline Massachusetts With a passion for 50s style fashion, various questions about her designs here's how it went:

How did you start designing clothes?

I got into designing clothes originally by modifying the clothes that I would purchase. But it was not until I opened my boutique that I began designing my own clothes.

How did you come to love 50s style fashion?

I can't pinpoint that moment. I've loved the 1950's for many years. The things that draw me to the'50's are the actual design style of different pieces as well as the dignified way of that era.

Of all the eras to choose from why choose the 50s to recreate?

I love the modesty and yet stylish classic style of the 50's. I also love the accessories of gloves and hats. They are a perfect accent to a beautiful outfit.

What’s your favorite collection so far?

Summer 2016. I love the colors, fabrics, and styles from that collection in particular.

Do you wear your designs yourself?

Yes, I definitely wear my designs. I love the fact that I can find unique pieces in my line.

Any up and coming collections we can look forward to?

I will be showing my fall collection on my show in October. I'm really excited about many of those. I will be doing some new things in that line that I haven't yet tried.

And I'm certain that we are all looking forward to it. I would also like to add that it really makes me happy when I see a person of color making such waves in the industry with retro-inspired designs I really hope that Luna continues to go far in the fashion industry.

Make sure to check out her designs and show her some support!

you can visit her website: L'Accentfashion.com