Outline for the Article on "Pin-Up"

What is a Pin-Up?
Pin-up refers to a form of popular art and culture that started early in the 20th century. Women were posed lasciviously and sometimes provocatively. Often, these prints would appear in magazines, calendars, and posters; probably they were most influential during World War II. But the culture of pin-up can be so much more than pretty pictures-a sign of empowerment, fashion, even rebellion.

The Roots of Pin-Up Culture
It got the name "pin-up" because these pictures were supposed to have been "pinned up" on walls, lockers, or barracks by soldiers or fans. Though the very roots of pin-up, in fact, date back to the late 19th century, it didn't really begin to take flight until the early 1900s as photography was becoming increasingly more accessible.

History of Pin-Up
Pin-Up in Early 20th Century
It started very humbly in the early 20th century, before people realized that it was a cultural phenomenon. The original pin-ups are usually actresses who danced and performed at vaudeville theaters where they would pose for posters to advertise their performance; hence, it later on became an art form all its own.

Golden Age of Pin-Up Art (1930-1950)
The golden era of the pin-up falls within the 1930s and extends to the 1950s. Iconic works by such artists as Gil Elvgren and Alberto Vargas idealized women in glorious but accessible ways, often playing and portraying them as playful, wholesome, and feminine to satisfy the interests and tastes of the time.

World War II and the Rise of Popularity in Pin-Up
Undoubtedly, the largest single catalyst for the creation and development of pin-up culture was World War II, since soldiers heading to the frontlines regularly took with them a bunch of pin-up posters and clippings of various magazines. Such images had a comforting effect and kept them at an amazingly high morale, reminding them of what they fought for-the American ideal of beauty, femininity, and freedom.

Classic Pin-Up Artists and Models
Gil Elvgren: The Master of Pin-Up Art
There are few more famous names in the realm of pin-up art than Gil Elvgren and his now-iconic illustrations of women-playful, cheeky, confident. Actually, his work often combined a sort of realism and fantasy in portraying women in comic predicaments that still made them charming and confident.

Bettie Page: The Queen of Pin-Up
Of the pin-up models, few have reached icon status as has Bettie Page. Most people think, when one says model and says jet-black hair, bangs, and in several provocative poses, of Page. She crossed barriers and became an international sensation, taking the conventional pin-up and infusing it with elements of fetishism to create a highly controversial yet powerfully influential combination.

Other Notable Pin-Up Models
Other pin-up icons included Marilyn Monroe, Jayne Mansfield, and Rita Hayworth-all three women added to the female form and ideal of their times. All three women went on to become cultural icons within their own times and continue to be celebrated within culture for their respective contributions to the genre.
Pin-Up Fashion and Style
Distictive Elements of Pin-Up Fashion
Pin-up is instantly super recognizable because such a high level of emphasis is placed on curves and womanly features. High-waisted pencil skirts, polka dots, fitted blouses, and bold red lipstick have become the hallmarks of the pin-up aesthetic.

Hair and Makeup Trends in the Pin-Up Era
Of course, hairstyles and makeup completed the pin-up look: victory rolls, finger waves, curled bangs in hairstyles; in makeup, it was all about winged eyeliner, rosy cheeks, and red lipstick. Many of these beauty trends remain incredibly popular today and are still emulated.

The Lasting Impact of Pin-Up Fashion on Today's Trends
We could still find an echo of pin-up fashion in today's style, be it retro-inspired clothes or makeup. The Pin-up style has been a source of constant inspiration for designers and stylists from all over the world.
Pin-Up and Feminism
Pin-Up as Means of Empowerment of Women
Although this aspect of culture is considered objectifying by many, for many, it was an empowering one. Pin-up gave them a chance to take control of their picture and tell the world about their feminine entity without an apology.

Controversies and Criticisms of Pin-Up Culture
Yet as healing the culture has been for some, it also had its fair share of controversies. Some critics put forward a view that these images place an unrealistic beauty standard and objectify women. For many pin-up enthusiasts, though, the pin-ups are an artistic way of saying, "This is feminine, and this is powerful."

Evolution of Pin-Up in Popular Culture
The Role of Pin-Up in Modern Media
From shoots across inspired by vintage fashion to movies and music videos, the pin-up is anything but dead through today's media. Thus, it remains an aesthetic that continuously resonates with people, especially in those who are into retro style.

Pin-Up in Cinema and Music

Pin-up inspires so many movies and videos of today-from Dita Von Teese, whose classic style amalgamates both pin-up and burlesque, to old-timey looks popping up in everything from Burlesque and Bombshell.

Pin-Up Revival in the Digital World
Of course, with social media, pin-up has revived. Instagram and Pinterest are full of the modern-day pin-up enthusiast who keeps the look and spirit alive through new and exciting means.

Pulling Off the Pin-Up Look Today
How to do your pin-up makeup-following is a step-to-step guide.
Start off with flawless skin and complete a dramatic cat's eye to finish off some classic pin-up makeup. Top that all off with a swoop of crimson lipstick. "It is all about the balance, drama in the eyes, lips not too done-up ."
Putting Together a Pin-Up Wardrobe
Of course, the must-haves for a classic pin-up wardrobe are a fitted dress, a high-waist skirt, and retro accessories like bandanas and cat-eye sunglasses. Give them that proper vintage feel and search out pieces with some original or originally-inspired twist.

Pin-Up Hairstyles: Victory Rolls and More
Of all pin-up hairstyles, probably the most iconic would have to be victory rolls. Hair is sectioned and rolled towards the scalp before it's pinned in place. It's a style just as classy as it is playful.

Pin-Up in Photography and Art

Characteristics of Pin-Up Photography

Pin-up photography is about the playful and confident side of the model. Lighting, posing, and expressions are the main elements which can express the charmingness of a pin-up model.

How to Do Posing Like a Pin-Up Model
The idea of posing like a pin-up model-outlines contours with your body: stand tall, pop your hip, and do not be afraid to smile or give that playful wink. It's all in the light-hearted attitude.
Famous Pin-Up Photographers
Photographers like Bunny Yeager, in tandem with Bettie Page, helped to define the genre. Today many modern-day photographers keep the tradition going, even as they mix retro and contemporary together.