Dallas’ own Melissa Meaow, model, chats about Dallas Burlesque Fest, glamazons, making her much anticipated burlesque debut, and being drunk off decadence.

Interview & Photographs: Shoshana of Through the Looking Glass Studio. MUA/H: LaDonna Hearne Accessories (hats, cuffs, and fascinators): Tara Tonini.

Q: Your portfolio is very diverse, how do you label yourself in the modeling world?  [Do you consider yourself a pin-up model, fetish model, fashion model?]

I am extremely versatile — a chameleon. Therefore, I cannot and do not limit myself to labels — everyone has a right to their own opinion of me and I most definitely think my work speaks for itself. I adore the avant-garde and pin-up is always so much fun to do!
 
Q: When and how did you begin modeling?

I have always loved modeling. As a young girl, I was reading Vogue, Elle, Bazaar. I immediately became obsessed with beauty and fashion. In high school, I started collecting magazines from overseas — a very expensive habit! Now everything is so accessible online, but nothing beats a glossy photo on the page of a fashion magazine. I guess this was my beginning — I was far too shy as a little girl to peruse modeling, so my mother put me in ballet.

In high school, my height (I’m 5′6″) kept me from getting any professional work. My big break was in 2004 — I assisted on photo shoots while working for Toni & Guy and a lot of times stood in for the model while the photographer tested lights, etc. I was dubbed “a natural” and “better than the girl we booked”. It turns out you don’t have to be a glamazon for print work! Also, social media sites like Model Mayhem have really helped me network and grow.
 
Q: What are your favorite shoots?  [Are they based on the fashion, the photographer, the concept?  Do you like a certain style more than others?]

Elaborate hair/makeup/wardrobe/set design shoots are always my favorite. I love a concept that brings multiple people together with so much creative juice flowing that everyone is drunk off the decadence — and then it’s all up to you, the model. I love the whole process!
 
Q:  How much collaboration do you do with the photographer from start to finish on a concept?

It all depends on who approaches whom. If a photographer emails me, I know they’ve looked through my portfolio and found I fit a concept they desire. This is not always the case vice versa! If I instigate, then I better have a concept they can use or an idea we can both agree on.
 
Q: You have a really long list of live modeling credits.  How does this compare with print modeling assignments?

I most definitely have more live modeling credits than print! A lot of print work goes through agencies and since I manage myself, the assignments fall off my radar. I hope to do more pin-up print work in the future. It’s always been a personal goal of mine to do a fashion spread as well.
 
Q: Speaking of live modeling, the first time I ever saw you was the inaugural Dallas Burlesque Fest.  Take us back to that event- Feb of last year.   What did you anticipate before the event, and how did that compare to the actual event?

Elisa throws awesome events and I was honored she asked for my help! Wrangling the models was fun — getting 10 models and 10 photographers on the same page at the same time, etc was crazy. I think i was the last one in hair/makeup and on stage because I was so busy — but wasn’t it grand? I did not expect a full house with a line around the building — the energy was absolutely incredible that night!
 
Q:  You are coordinating the pin-up model photo shoot aspect of Dallas Burlesque Fest once again this year.  What are your plans for this portion of the event?  What should the audience of potential shooters expect?

Yes — I’m doing it again this year! Already we’ve had some models and photographers contact us to participate. There will be a pin-up shoot, but we may do three different sets on stage instead of just one. There’s also talk of a lingerie fashion show. I don’t want to give too much away — just be sure to get there early so you don’t miss it!

 
Q: Okay, so a gal has determined that she’s very pretty.  But, being a great model requires so much more.  What else should this gal posses to be successful?

Being comfortable in your own skin is key. Self confidence goes a long way — but always be gracious — no matter how bad you think your makeup/hair/photographer are. Everyone knows everyone in this community and word of mouth means more than any photoshopped image in your portfolio. Grace, integrity and punctuality are how I’ve gotten this far.
 
Q: Let’s talk burlesque for a second.  You made your burlesque debut last month at Christmas in Candy Land at The Church.  How was that for you?

It was an unforgettable evening! Elisa was a wonderful choreographer and coach – I felt totally comfortable with the routine. A lot of my friends showed up to support me and the other performers were excited about my debut as well. Of course, I was super nervous, but once I stepped on stage, my nerves disappeared and I had so much fun! Needless to say, I cannot wait to to perform at the Crystal Palace show later this month – I am doing more of a traditional burlesque number you must not miss!

Q: Do you have formal dance training?

Yes! I have 20 years of ballet, tap and jazz under my belt – ballet being my most favorite. I’d love to pursue more ballroom, latin and swing in the future.

Q: You are a founding member of the 60’s go-go dancing troupe, The Lollie Dollies. Tell us about its inception and where to find your performances.? 

The Lollie Dollies are a 60’s throw-back go-go troupe of 5 lovely ladies that was founded in 2005. We throw dance parties under the name, The Lollipop Shoppe showcasing local bands/djs. We perform every other month, so keep your eyes peeled for flyers! You can also keep up with us at: myspace.com/lollipopdolls and facebook.com/pages/lolli-dollies.

Q: What are your New Year Resolutions for 2010?

More modeling, of course! My goal was 52 shoots last year (I accomplished 46) and I just had my solo burlesque debut at The Church’s Christmas in Candy Land Party! So more dancing too — I’ll be performing at the Crystal Palace Burlesque show as well as the Dallas Burlesque Festival. And I’d love to travel to Austin, Los Angeles and New York to shoot/perform. Finally, I want to get my website up and running — it has been almost five years in the making!

Notorious Model and Performer Angela Ryan graces the very first Best Of Pin Curl print edition, and sits down with editor Shoshana to discuss fashion, kindergarten, modeling mistakes, and a world without MySpace. Angela Ryan will be signing copies of our inaugural print issue at our Issue Release Party at Gifts and Garters on Dec 5th.

Interview & Photographs: Shoshana of Through the Looking Glass Studio

Q: What’s on your Christmas list this year?

Designer shoes and lingerie will always make me squeal with delight, but on the practical side I would love a new laptop and some new photo editing programs though.

Q: You began modeling before MySpace. How did you get you start?

I started back in 2001 working with a photographer friend and when I got enough photos I started a Yahoo Group. My fan base there grew and I started planning trips to other cities to shoot with well known photographers when I could. I was a cocktail waitress and worked retail and was miserable so I decided that I needed a change. I quit my jobs and started modeling full time in 2004. Luckily, it was the right decision! I love my job now!

Q: How have MySpace/FaceBook/Twitter changed the industry?

I credit MySpace with the real launch of my career. I signed up in 2003 and I don’t know where I would be without it! Social networking sites have changed the way you can promote yourself and make you accessible to millions of people. It’s much easier to make a name for yourself these days. On the down side, since anyone can make a profile claiming to be a “model” it saturates the industry with people who might not take it as a seriously as someone who solely models for a living. You still have to be creative in the way you market yourself to make sure you stand out. Since new sites pop up all the time you really have to be on top of the networking trends.

Q: You refer to yourself as a fetish and pin-up model. There seems there is a lot of crossover between the two in the industry. Are fetish and pin-up completely separate beasts, or do they go hand in hand?

I think for the most part they are separate but they definitely have some common interests. Traditional wardrobe pieces like fully fashioned stockings, garter belts, girdles, and high heels are staples in both
worlds. Many of the top fetish designers now recreate retro looks in latex that many pinup models wear. Bettie Page paved the way to make being both pinup AND fetish more acceptable. I have a love for both and I’m glad I don’t have to choose one above the other!

Q: Who are your favorite fashion designers right now?

For high fashion it’s Alexander McQueen, latex by House of Bias, corsets by Jupiter Moon, and lingerie by Agent Provocateur.

Q: You recently got into the design business yourself, with the Angela Ryan Signature Necklace by Heart Sized Crush. How did this come about. Tell us a little of the design process?

Heart Sized Crush made an adorable necklace for my good friend Devil Doll to sell on her tour. I fell in love with it and she suggested I contact them about making one for me. Since this was my first time designing anything it took a few drafts to come up with the perfect necklace but they were super easy to work with and very patient with me!

Q: In addition to the ton of modeling work, you are also an accomplished performer. How would you categorize your shows?

Burlesque with a fetish twist! I try to blend traditional with modern and always keep it sassy and unexpected! My choreographer Eric Hall works diligently with me on challenging myself technically and creatively and pushing boundaries!

Q: What are the top three mistakes young models and burlesque performers make?

Being unprofessional, caring too much what other people think, and working for less than they are worth. You have to use your mistakes as learning experiences.

Q: What did you want to be when you were in kindergarten?

Madonna. Seriously. That’s who I was every year for Halloween as a kid. I wanted to be a rock star. I still pretend I am sometimes. lol.

For more of the Angela Ryan Interview with tons of unseen photos, grab the Best of Pin Curl 2009 edition. You can purchase in our shop or even better-get an autographed copy at the Issue Release Party on Dec 5th!

Pin-Up icon Bernie Dexter, who has graced the pages of Playboy Magazine as well as been called the Queen of Pin-Ups by BLID Entertainment, takes time out of her busy moving schedule to discuss music, nerves, and her clothing line for Lucy B.

Miss Dexter did her interview exclusively for the Best of Pin Curl 2009 issue available in our online shop or at the Issue Release Party at Gifts and Garters on Dec 5th. You’ll have to grab a copy to get the full interview and tons of unseen photos, but with it being the holiday season and all, we thought we’d gift you a sneak peak.

An Except of the Bernie Dexter Interview

Interview: Shoshana. Photo: Levi Dexter

Q: What are three songs that are in heavy rotation on your MP3 player right now?

That Certain Female Charlie Feathers, Snake Eyed Mama by Levi Dexter & Steve Hooker, & Frankie’s Got Quiff by Batmobile

Q: When was your first pin-up photo shoot?

My first professional shoot was for Space Cowgirls. I remember walking in & seeing the make-up artist. She was a cool girl I knew from the rockabilly scene and I was so embarrassed! I remember telling her not to tell anyone she saw me there! Hehehe!

Q: How has the industry and “the scene” changed since you then?

At the time when I started it was a very small. There were only a hand full of girls and I thought they were so amazing. Carina Acevedo, Lana Landis & Nancy from Glamour Lux were my faves. I do not think these girls even model anymore. I never see them anymore. The scene is so huge now! It is great to see it grow.

Q: You Bernie Dexter for Lucy B line of lingerie has been getting quite a lot of attention. How did this partnership begin?

I had been hired to do modeling for Michelle of Lucy B. We really got a long and she would ask me to fly to New York to do the lingerie shows with her. We realized we both *love* vintage lingerie & had extensive vintage lingerie collections. One day she just asked me. It was always a dream of mine to have my own line of lingerie! Lucy B. made it happen.

Q: If 100 years from now, there is a Bernie Dexter legacy, what would you like that legacy to be?

If I leave any legacy at all I hope it will be to inspire young girls and women to be fit, healthy, and smile!

You can find Miss Dexter’s clothing line at BernieDexter.com, Lucy.com, and Love Jones at the Hard Rock Hotel Las Vegas, just to name a few.

Brownsville based pin-up model Ili Jean discusses Andy Warhol, makeup, and inspiration.

Q: What songs are in heavy rotation on your MP3 player right now?

Right now anything by: Johnny Thunders, France Gal, The Clash, The Velvet Underground, Wanda Jackson, The Shangri Las, The Ventures.
 
Q: You do a lot of conceptual shoots. How much of that is you, and how much of that is the photographers you choose to work with?

One can’t function without the other; a pack of wolves is as good as the hungriest wolf, and we’re all starving to do exactly what’s on our minds. I am very fortunate to be able to work with such artistically driven individuals; we work together on producing photo concepts that fill our goblet of creativity. As of late we have been taking a more avant garde approach which has kept our minds busy with tons of new in depth ideas.

Q: You don’t see a lot of pin-up models in Brownsville, Texas. What’s the scene like there? Do you find yourself mostly traveling for shoots?

Brownsville is a small town with a lot of room grow , the photographers I work with regularly, live here in the Rio Grande Valley, but I do mostly travel to perform more so than shoots.
 
Q: What are your top three favorite cosmetic products and why?

– Magic Power by Prescriptive is a translucent powder that gives skin a shimmery glow after you have applied your make up. I never leave home without it.
– Show Dior mascara is the only mascara on earth that has ever worked for me. The consistency is thick but not clumpy. I used it even after applying false eyelashes; it is a female must have!
– Dior black eyeliner maybe the most difficult eyeliner to take off, but by far the best! It will not budge!

 
Q: If you could sit down to dinner with 5 people, living or dead, who would they be and why?

A famous Baroque painter named Peter-Paul Rubens. Definitely Andy Warhol just as long as he doesn’t leave me barefoot and glamorous in New York City like Edie Sedgwick. Come to think of it I would really love to see what Rubens would have to say to Warhol about art and vice-versa. Jayne Mansfield, because a dinner party requires both beauty and class. Then maybe Buddy Holly and Joe Strummer. Joe Strummer has always had allot to say so I’m sure the conversation won’t get boring- as for Buddy, I could be the girl in “True Love Ways”.

Q: Your weight and weight loss have been topics you are open about through your blog. In a modern society of “thinner is better” beauty ideals, you have still maintained a high self-esteem. What advice would you give ladies who are struggling with weight issues?

My weight loss was a gradual process taking over a year. My weight will continue to yo-yo give or take a few pounds. I believe it was an overall good decision to get some more exercise and be healthier. I was never dissatisfied with what I weighed before; I just knew I was not getting enough exercise.

Today’s socially imposed beauty standards are unrealistic and frankly unachievable. One can spend a life time trying to climb the beauty ladder to perfection, but the truth is our bodies will continue to change as we do. I hope to inspire women to accept themselves and realize you can be beautiful and full figured.
 
Q: You maintain that higher education is a top priority. How do you manage to keep a firm head on your shoulders, and balance your shooting/performing schedule with school?

At times it feels there are just not enough hours in the day for it all. I have a planner I write in religiously, planning day by day. After I graduate with a bachelor’s degree I would like to get my master then continue school and get my PhD. So looks like I have to start getting used to the busy life early!

Q: You talk about the concept of re-invention. Do you view your alter egos as extensions of yourself with personalities all their own?

I view them simply as extensions of myself. A prism has many facets, and this is just one reflection of my many colorful artistic genres. I am constantly reinventing and craving creation; it’s a concept that never leaves me.
 
Q: If 100 years from now, there is an “Ili Jean” legacy, what would you want it to be?

Ultimately, I just want to have a positive influence on women, I would like to inspire through burlesque, art, and education.
 
Q: What does the future hold for Ili Jean? Any upcoming projects we should know about?

At the moment I am going to school full time, and hopefully by next semester will continue my studies at the University of North Texas in Denton. Right now the sky is the limit; I am excited to see what the future holds for me. When I think of what the future holds I always remember a great quote by Leslie Caron, which I hope to live by.

“I think it’s the end of progress if you stand still and think of what you’ve done in the past. I keep on.”
- Leslie Caron

Miami-based pin-up model Jenna Beth talks Cupcake Pin-Ups, being a history geek, Marie Antoinette, and her addictions to tattoos and Food Network.

Interview: Divertida Devotchka

You’re a stylist, right? Do you do hair and make-up?

Yes, I do hair and make-up, but I mainly focus on wardrobe, accessorizing, and giving posing direction. I’ve done my own hair and make-up in about 60% of my shoots. I worked in the cosmetics business for about 7 years, so I actually really enjoy that part.

What’s your favorite era as far as styling is concerned?

I love the 40-50s. The style was so feminine, classy, and sexy, while still leaving something to the imagination. I like almost anything vintage. I have my bachelor’s in History, and I’m kind of a history geek, so I love many different styles throughout the decades. I’m actually working on putting together a Marie Antoinette shoot. Not very pin-up, I know, but I think it would still be great.

What made you decide to get a history degree? Do you have a favorite historical time period?

Originally I wanted to be a high school history teacher, but then found out you need an education degree, not a history degree…horrible advisers. I like anything from the Renaissance, also the American Civil War, but mainly I prefer European history. I decided to do my thesis on local (where I went to college and my hometown – Cincinnati, Ohio) history. I’m kind of all over the place.

How long have you been pin up modeling and how did you get started?

I’ve been pin-up modeling for about 2 years. I’m pretty new to it and kind of a late bloomer. I completely fell into it by accident; I had just always loved the style and decide to give it a shot. It’s what I’ve been doing ever since.

How long have you been working with Cupcake Pin Ups?

I’m actually half the business of Cupcake Pin-ups, the other half consisting of my photographer/business partner/boyfriend. I came up with the name and he made the logo. We’ve been doing this for about a year now. Before me he didn’t specialize in pin-up, but he catches on pretty fast!

What/who are your creative inspirations for styling and/or modeling?

I love Petty, Alberto Vargas, Elvgren and Olivia for inspiration.

How many tattoos do you have?

I have 4 tattoos. I have a tiny dove on my hip, scales (Libra) on my back, a fan and cherry blossoms covering one side (ribcage to hip), and a peacock down the other side. They’re pretty large, but hardly anyone ever sees them unless I’m at the pool or on a shoot. I like the fact I can cover them if I need to. I kind of want another. Yes, they are addictive.

What do you like to do when you’re not working?

When I’m not working, I love traveling and seeing new places. I’m headed to London this month, and I’m so excited! I also like cooking; I watch the Food Network way too much. Something I used to do, and would love to get back into is dancing, like ballroom/swing/lindy/salsa-type dancing. I miss it, and it’s probably what got me interested in the 40’s -50’s style about 11 years ago.

Do you have any advice for aspiring pin up models?

I would say when you’re just starting out, don’t be a diva. You will always catch more flies with honey than vinegar. Confidence is great; arrogance is not. Second, know the difference between quality and quantity. Ten photos in your portfolio that are awesome and well thought out (that you might NOT get for free) are better than 50 photos that are poorly done. Lastly, work what you have. That’s the great thing about pin-up compared to some other genre, like fashion. You can be petite, plus-size, thin or curvy. It takes all kinds.

Nola Chick, Pin-Up model and New Orleans resident gives Pin Curl the insider’s guide to New Orleans, tips and tricks on modeling, and the importance of a mystery.

Interview: Shoshana

Your name let’s folks know just how proud you are of your home town. If an out of towner had one weekend to spend in New Orleans, what are some things they should be sure and see/eat/do?

Oh my gosh!  Where do I start?  Well, when you come to New Orleans, what do you want?  You want food.  Start at Mother’s and go from there.  It’s one of the best places in the city and they are known for their roast beef po boys.  Cafe Degas for French and Tony Angelo’s for Italian.  Oh!  And you have to stop by Central Grocery to get a world famous muffaletta.  This delicious sandwich was invented here. 

Then go see jazz at Snug Harbor on Frenchmen- they have free shows at midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. Go to One Eyed Jack’s or Dragon’s Den for your Burlesque fix.  Visit the Ogden museum and the World War II museum and the New Orleans museum of art!  Also be sure to do some shopping on Magazine street and get a drink at the Sazerac Bar in the newly refurbished Roosevelt Hotel.  The Roosevelt is a place where anyone can dress up and instantly feel like you are back in the 1950’s. I could go on and on, but I would be here all night! 
 
Take us back four years to August 2005. When did you leave, when did you return? Describe what the city was like after Katrina.

Well, I left with my family the day before the storm hit.  It was a Sunday and the mayor had officially told everyone that they need to leave or seek shelter.  We were gone for about 3 weeks, not really knowing what was going on or what the future held for any of us.  To this day, I think that the “not knowing” was the very worst of it. 

When we got back, we had discovered that although our home had been spared, my aunt and uncle, had lost everything.  For those first few months, New Orleans was not the city that I knew.  The national guard was heavy, parts of the city didn’t have power, there was a curfew all over town and there was a general feeling of unease.  We all had the question of, “well, what’s next?” swimming in our heads, because we weren’t getting any answers.  People who had lost everything didn’t even know where to begin in the whole “rebuilding” process. 

Should we stay and start over and hope this doesn’t happen again? Should we leave and start a new life somewhere else? Imagine your entire town being wiped out; Imagine that you have lost everything. All you have are the clothes on your back and a couple of bucks that the government threw at you. What do you do?

You cling to what you DO have…family, friends…this is when you realize what matters.  This is what gives you hope and keeps you going.  What else can you do?  You’ll go crazy doing anything else.
  
Has New Orleans returned to her former glory? Have the business, culture, & community returned?

I know some will argue with me and say that New Orleans will never be what it was.  I believe we are there now more than we ever have been.  The culture is here and it always will be.  The culture is in the people, the food, and the music, and it will remain as long as people come here and experience it. 

Do we still have work to do?  Absolutely.  Homes are continuing to be rebuilt and we could definitely use all of the help we can get.  I don’t want anyone to think that everything here is perfect, but I definitely don’t want anyone to hesitate to pay us a visit.  If you come down here, we will definitely make you feel at home. 

 
Let’s switch to a lighter topic. How did you fall in love with the pin-up style? What about it is so alluring to you?

Well, I have always been a “girly girl”, and I love pin up because it is so classic.  I just grew up appreciating the art of it and loving the “tease” aspect of it.  You can be sexy without showing anything at all.  It’s all about being a woman and embracing all that entails.  It’s about doing your hair and makeup and getting dressed up.  To me, it’s about that as much as it’s about getting a pretty picture- It’s about the whole process.  

I want people to know that anyone can do pinup.  ANYONE.  It doesn’t see race, size or age.  You are never too old, young, big or small to feel like a gorgeous woman and embrace who you are.  There is nothing that I do in my pictures that a woman admiring it on the internet can’t do herself.  I would tell anyone who is interested in pinup to do it.  Even if it’s just once.  
 
Who are your favorite vixens?

Well, ok, we’ll start with the obvious, the queen, Miss Dita Von Teese.  As far as models, I’m inspired by people like Gia Carangi.  The way she mixed fashion and art is what makes her a legend.  The classics: Betty Grable, Ava Gardner, Rita Hayworth, Eartha Kitt. 

These were women who did it right.  They were gorgeous, but they also had strength and attitude.  All of the actresses from this era carried themselves in a way that demanded respect.  They weren’t like the “starlets” of today with sex tapes and mini skirts.  They weren’t all over the gossip rags.  There was a mystery about them.  I think that’s the problem with a lot of girls today; there is no mystery left.  Girls shouldn’t be so quick to put it all “out there”. 

What is your trick to relating to the camera?

Well, that depends on the shoot.  For a “boudoir” kind of thing, I imagine that the camera is a boyfriend that I want to seduce.  Isn’t that so cheesy?  But it really works!  A photographer once told me to imagine that the camera is a person who I have to convince that I’m beautiful with just my eyes.  Ha!  That’s easier said than done. 

If the shoot is about you looking more serious, then you have to put yourself in that place.  If you have to look dominant, you have to put yourself there, too.  A lot of it, I guess, is about acting.  Only, you have to portray everything you want to say with one look.  

Pin-Up Model and writer Lizzy D Vine of Sacramento, California talks Nor Cal Vixens, motherhood, and patriotism.

Interview by Divertida Devotchka

Are you a burlesque performer or strictly a pin up model and writer?

Currently, I am a model and a writer. I have ALWAYS had a deep appreciation for burlesque. My hope is to reach those who have misconceptions of the art today. My dream has been to extend myself into that arena. I recently took that leap alongside the lovely ladies of the Kountry Kittens. It was my debut and I will be part of many more troupe performances and individual performances as well.

I am also involved with the Nor Cal Vixens, which is a supportive, tightly knit group of gals. I suppose you could call us a sisterhood of creative and artistic individuals. I am also the co-producer and editor of a local public access show called Nor Cal Vixens Presents. The show was concocted by the lovely Michelle Barbaria and I’m glad to be part of it. We’ve done two segments- one on burlesque and one on fashion; they should be available for streaming soon.

You have 3 children. What ages? Boys or girls?

I sure do. They are an extreme joy! My husband and I just had our newest addition to the family, Emma Rae, on May 15th! We also have two amazing boys, Owen who turns 3 in December and Noah who just turned 6.

What do your children know about your involvement in the burlesque/pin up world?

Right now they don’t have a full grasp of what mommy does. What they notice is mommy getting dolled up or spending time on the computer. When I’m getting ready, my boys ask where I’m going and the infamous question at age 6 is “but why?” I simply answer, “Mommy and her friends are filming their TV show” or “Mommy will be at a catwalk rehearsal.” Sometimes they understand; other times they have their own translations. In their eyes Mommy and her friends are movie stars because they are on TV and Mommy walks with lots of cats.

I get things done while they are setting up for bed and while they sleep. I’m usually working on one of my many projects I own or am collaborating with someone on. I have The Burlesque Times, Operation: Patriotic Pin Up, and the Modern Pin Up Magazine that will release at the first of the year.

How do you feel about the possibility that your daughter may eventually be involved in burlesque/pin up?

(Chuckle) I think Dad might have a different opinion about our lil’ peanut, but I accept that there is a 50/50 chance that she may want to do the same as me. I will teach her to love herself, to respect herself, to hold true to herself and the rest we will leave to time. I can honestly say I will support her.

How long ago did you start Operation: Patriotic Pin Up? What exactly do you do?

Operation: Patriotic Pin Up is a charity-based community willing to provide moral support, packaged goodies and our appreciation to all of our deployed troops. We will be hosting fundraising events teaming up with several independent charities, websites, support groups and the local Veteran’s Hall.

The organization didn’t have a name until this year, but I’d like to think that the services that I did as a child were the very start of Operation: Patriotic Pin Up or at least they’re the deep-rooted reason as to how it came about in my adulthood. In elementary school I was adamant about collecting goodies for care packages and thank you letters so that when Mom and I sent care packages to my stepdad who was deployed, his platoon would receive goodies too. Mom showed me to exercise patriotism and my dad taught me to be grateful that I am an American.

Your bio states you are from a “strong military and patriotic background.” Can you tell me more about that?

My stepfather was in the USMC for many years and at a very early age I was taught to appreciate the good ole boys (and girls) that fight every day to keep my tail safe. I love our service men and women and this is the very least I can do. It’s because of them that my kids and I can sleep safely and do things freely.

Texas Pin-Up Model of the Year, Amber Deville recently sat down with us wearing a hat she made herself, to talk oatmeal, Bettie Davis, and horror films.
Cover photo: Through the Looking Glass.

What did you have for breakfast this morning?

I had peaches and cream oatmeal with water- yummy.

How did you fall in love with the pin-up era?

The musical Gypsy with Natalie Wood is how I feel in love with the pin-up era. My grandmother, the late Betty Jean, showed me the movie when I was thirteen and I just fell in love with it. I love how it showed the old vaudeville circuit and the burlesque dancers including Gypsy Rose Lee. I soon learned about more pin-up gals such as Maila Nurmi, Bettie Page, Tempest Storm, Marylin Monroe and so on . I just love the style, what can I say?

How did you get your start in modeling?

My mother put me in modeling school at the age of fifteen; it was the Kim Dawson agency. There they taught us how do walk the runway, pose in front of the camera, and how to do your make up just right for certain styles of photography. That’s where I started out, and here I am now.

You recently earned the title of Pin-Up Model of the Year at Hot Rods and Heels. Tell us about that experience.

Oh my god, I had so much fun at the event and I really did not expect to win. The other ladies are great models as well. It was such a great surprise, and I am so happy that people like what I have done so far. I expect to be putting more and more out there and working my little butt off. But yes, I am grateful that I won and I would like to thank Hot Rods and Heels for putting together a wonderful event. I can’t wait till next year!!

What is your biggest accomplishment so far?

Well, I would say the biggest is winning Pin-Up Model of the Year. This year has been so great, and I only hope it gets better.

What advice would you have for a gal who wants to get started in the pin-up modeling world?

If it is what you want to do, but you have people saying you’re not good enough- don’t listen to them. Work towards your goal; in the end it will all pay off. Don’t pay attention to the negative critics- you will get those, so you have to learn to let it go and just do what you love to do.

What are three characteristics of a professional model? (What skills should ladies bring to a shoot?)

Always show up to a shoot on time and don’t cancel at the last minute unless it’s an emergency.
Always come prepared and be ready to model your butt off.
Don’t be mean to your photographer- they work hard to get you great pictures.

Who are your favorite vixens?

That would be Miss Bette Davis! I love her movies- she was not afraid to say what was on her mind and did not ever care what the critics thought. She was always willing to take on a challenge. Bette Davis was and always will be an amazing actress and woman of her time.

Is “drama” an issue in the pin-up community? How do you handle it?

If there is an issue I don’t get involved in it. I think its best just to avoid drama and just have fun!

What does the future hold for Amber Deville?

I am hoping to get more into acting- I am filming right now. The movie is called Trace. It is a horror film by Remy St Paul…I am hoping to get more roles in other movies. I am also going to be modeling a lot more so be on the look-out for new sets to be posted. I love keeping busy and hope to accomplish a lot this year.

Kali-Ann, winner of Texas Pin-Up to Watch (the newcomer category at Hot Rods and Heels), sits down with us to talk designer labels, pop music, tattoos, and Cheaters. 
 
How did you become interested in modeling? Please describe your start.
One of my best friends, Phoenix Taylor, is a photographer and would take beautiful photos of women. I wanted to do one after seeing them so we did a shoot. It is crazy looking back at the first shoot to the photos now. So, I dabbled in it over the next few years, only really doing shoots once a year.. Last May was when it really took off for me and I started doing it several times a month. Meeting new photographers and companies to work with helped keep me busy.  
 
Describe your Hot Rods and Heels experience: the contest, the show, and winning your category.
I had a blast at Hot Rods and Heels. I haven’t been to many burlesque shows but the more I go to the more I fall in love with it. The people in the community are so nice and so supportive of the girls on stage that it seems hard to have a bad performance. I got to be a part of the Model Showcase/Fashion Show. I got to model fashions from Tara to the T. This was my first show to really get to know some more of the girls which was the best part of the whole show. The contest was all in fun but I do appreciate all the votes I received to help me win. Though I think all the gals that were nominated should all deserve a trophy. 
 
The original pin-up movement didn’t include tattoos, mainly because not many American women at the time had them. Please describe your passion or both pin-up and ink. Do you feel the two go hand in hand?
Well, my passion started with tattoos. I have worked in the shop for almost four years therefore I have lots of tats. I am the type of person if you are gonna do it you might as well do it big. So my goal is a body suit.   I started out doing more glamour modeling but over the past few months have gotten into pin up. I have always had the sweet tooth for vintage, my favorite part is getting my hair done. I think that hair styling itself is an artform and I thank all the ladies that have sculpted my hair. I don’t think tats and pinup go hand in hand but I think that they do cross over quite a bit. People like variety these days so if you can throw a tattooed chick in the mix of some classic beauties in will give it a little spice.

Do you identify with the “alternative beauty” movement?
It’s hard not to be. I have my face tattooed, how can I not be an alternative beauty? Do I want to be limited to that no but I do accept the fact that I am not your normal runway fashion model or classic pin up. And if you can make it with tattoos or pink hair then bravo!  
 
You have said that “you can have tattoos and still love designer shit”. Are their any pre-concieved notions about you that you would like to dispell? Do you feel your ink has limited the work you do?
I just hate being labeled. Just because I have tattoos doesn’t mean I have to dress a certain way, listen to a certain type of music and only be friends with other tattooed folks. I like nice clothes, I like pop music and I get along with everyone. I do think my tattoos will limit the type of work I can do, but I just consider it a hurdle I have to find my way around.  I might not make it but I will at least try my hardest.
 
What has been your favorite shoot thus far and why?
Wow, a hard question. I think every new shoot becomes my favorite. I feel like I progress each time and I try to top the last shoot with something bigger and better. This last shoot was with Phoenix Taylor featuring the makeup artistry of Luisa “Panic” Abrego. There were a lot of models involved with the shoot along with hair and makeup gals. It seemed like a little party. Shoots that you have fun on are def the ones you remember.  

 
Who are your favorite vixens? (women past and present who rule with their strong sex appeal)
Athena Fatale
Angela Ryan
Courtney Crave
Erin Go Braughless 
Dita Von Teese
Betty Page
 
If you could work with anyone (photographers, other models, etc) who would it be and why?
I would want to work with models Raquel Reed and Mosh. I love a woman that can pose her ass off. These two women have been the ladies that I have looked up to since I got started. They know how to rock the camera! I love Mosh’s fetish work and Raquel’s electric pop style.
  
Ok, We can’t help it: Please describe your Cheaters experience. (For those readers who don’t know: Cheaters is a “reality” t.v. show where people get busted cheating on their boyfrends/ girlfriends/ spouses) Any regrets? Was any of the reaction staged? What was the feedback you recieved?
 OH MY! No regrets, I try not to fill my life with those. If you caught my name on the show was Kelly. So, I was being a character on the show, not myself. I was filming the show with two girls I work with. It was all in fun. My “girlfriend” and I became friends with a few of the bikers at the bar we were at so they were protecting me and yelling at the other girl. I had cut myself when I broke a beer bottle and had blood running down my face. Everyone I have talked to about it said it was pretty crazy watching us girls cat fight. Someone even asked if my boyfriend knew I was cheating on him – so I guess we did a good job at making it look real.
 
What does the future hold for Kali-Ann?
I am starting to get everything together so I can launch my website very soon. I am planning some trips over the next year so I can go work with some awesome photographers. I plan on going out to Arizona and New York this year. But what I really want to work on is starting a burlesque career.  I am getting ideas together now and going to start working on a routine. So, hopefully at the next Hot Rods and Heels I will be in the one to watch entertainer!

Christine Fury of California lent us her images and voice in this interview for Pin Curl. Fury talks hot rods, welding, and tattoos.

How did you fall in love with the pin-up style?

That’s easy, Hot rods! I love cars, always have always will. I have loved old cars for so long(especially since I was named after a classic killer car=) When I got into restoration and welding I worked on pre 63’s. So as I began working on my own cars I started going to car shows to check out everyone else’s work, see friends and listen to music. Then instead of taking pictures of peoples cars, people started asking me to stand in front of their cars, to take my picture. It blossomed from there on.

Please describe your first shoot. Were you nervous, etc?

Hahahahaha my first shoot was a blast! My great friends from South Bay tattoo let me shoot at their shop with some of their awesome cars. I was nervous just because I was in front of like twenty of my homies and had never shot before. So I was still learning faces/poses but I just relaxed and banged it out. We had some beers, listened to some tunes and I still love those pics to this day! Even if they where awhile back=)

How do you prepare for a shoot, please describe the process.

Lots and lots of SLEEP before!!!! Haha I can’t explain how painful it is to me to shoot tired.

Who are your favorite Vixens, past and present and what do you admire about them?

I think my favorite vixen from the past, even though she didn’t model has to be Wanda Jackson. Her music has influenced my life so much for so long. She paved her own road and showed women could be strong yet sexy. I admire her hard work and determination so much. I strive to push myself as hard and break molds. A more recent vixen again is a music doll but still such a vixen. Wendy O Williams from the Plasmatics. Punk is such a huge part of my life and I loved watching her. A mo hawk, fishnets, electric tape covering her breast and a bitching attitude. She preformed her own stunts, kicked major ass and blew the box wide open on what sexy is.

What do you think about the recent surge in popularity of pin-up and burlesque?

I think the surge was bound to happen. The classic era of pin up and tease was so amazing it couldn’t be helped that people would fall in love with it all over again. Fashion, music and eras all seem to pop back up here and there in history so I think time will tell if people stay in love with it. I know I and the true fans will=)

What has been your favorite shoot thus far & why?

It is impossible to pick one. Every shoot is so different since its always different photogs, ideas,companies, and locations. I think that is one of the things that I enjoy the most about modeling. You never know what type of photos your going to get. I love being there to help people bring the picture in their head to life. Letting them mold me into what they need and being able to mold myself into different wonderful ideas from my head.

What is your advice for aspiring pin-up models?

Stand out and be yourself.

How does pin-up and tattoo culture marry in your mind?

They have always walked hand in hand. Boats coming into docks back in the day where always carrying tons of men that had their favorite sexy pin ups tattooed on them.Also covered in great flash. And now in the present people see old flash can be found in pin ups clothing, pin stripped on the sickest sleds and have finally come to find women that our heavily tattooed beautiful. Thank goodness=)

Tell us the symbolism of one of your favorite tats.

Man its hard to pick just one. All my tattoos have tons of meaning behind them and I have made sure to get slowly covered in ink so that I don’t end up plastered in things that don’t mean anything. So with that said I will tell ya the one I have that was a whim tattoo. I have “As you wish” tattooed on the inside of my lip. I got it done with my best friend on our stupid tattoo day hahaha. I had watched one of my favorite movies wayyyyy to many times the day before and had to get the line tattooed on me. Can you guess the movie? hehe

Give us a statement on alternative beauty (we define this as the non-brittany spears school of thought). Did you feel pretty in school?

Beauty to me is the ability to walk into a room and command attention. Whether it be with your grace, stunning personality or your own self confidence.

In school I felt happy with who I was but like I hadn’t grown into my skin yet. Definetally still figuring out who I was and what made me feel beautiful.

What does the near future hold for Christine Fury?

Lots of fun things that I am very excited for. Hopefully I am voted into Ink and Iron’s pin up contest in June. Participating in some other pin up contest , like Transylvanian dolls contest and show on May 30th. Hosting some really fucking rad events, like the pin up contest at the next Long Beach Car Show on July 4Th. Can’t wait for that, it will be my first hosting event.=) Hoping to not fall off the stage. hahaha Magazines coming out that I am featured in, and hopefully will be starting some burlesque dancing. I have a very fun idea that I can’t wait to do with the burlesque dancing. And then of course more shoots, companies, car shows and debauchery.

When do you know you’ve “made it”?

For me I will “make it” when ever I feel satisfied with my body of work and feel accomplished. I’m usually never satisfied so I know the hard work isn’t stopping anytime soon.=)

What’s your favorite beauty product?

Lip Smackers Dr Pepper chap stick! Hahaha I know so kiddy but I really can’t go anywhere with out it. Must switch flavors though, thinking cotton candy.
BIG KISSES!!!!!!