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!

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.