They were models who printed sensual posters with a very specific aesthetic in the 40’s and 50’s. Although their origin goes back to the Gibson Girl (a provocative woman painted by the American artist Charles Dana Gibson in 1887), pin-ups became popular in the Second World War, when American soldiers hung their posters in barracks (hence the name “pin-up”, which means “pin-up” in English). They established a style of subtle eroticism that is revered to this day.
With her dark hair and almost always in a bathing suit, Bettie Page became known as the queen of pin-ups in the 1950s.
THAT WAY YOU’RE GOING TO KILL ME
Aesthetics suggested, at the same time, naughty and innocence.
pure provocation
At the height of pin-up fame, their eroticism was even considered daring. Today, he pleases for referring to a more innocent time. There is no nudity, but the image conveys sensuality indirectly thanks to body language. It highlights typically feminine parts, such as the curves of the hips, the red lips, the thighs and the hair.
Lolita Way
Among the most used scene elements are balls, puppies, swings and other children’s icons. Again, it’s part of the fantasy, the play between the sexy and the innocent. Other scenarios that seem contradictory: things typical of the male universe, like cars and motorcycles. Thus, the girl puts herself on the same level as other objects of desire of the boys
You are light
To cheer up soldiers on the battlefronts, pin-ups needed to show that life was beautiful. Therefore, makeup served to enhance your health. Vibrant colors and good lighting created a happy atmosphere. “Today, light and make-up are also essential to guarantee the retro look”, says photographer Ricardo Ferrari, owner of the site Garota Pin-Up
SOURCES Websites pinmeup.com.br, pinuppassion.com, eHow and Pin-Up Girl and Superinteressante Magazine