Typical pin-up girl

Form-Flattering Clothing

Clothing in the 40s reflected and accentuated the womanly figure, drawing attention to the shoulders and bust, small waists, and wider hips. Although women weren’t wearing corsets every day, they were

This vintage-style Grenier Bra is a great base for the pin-up look.

popular in pin-up fashion, along with high-waisted panties and other shape-hugging undergarments. You can create the base of your pin-up look with the Vintage Shapewear Bra By Grenier Lingerie and matching high-rise panty. Throw a vintage-style dress on top and you’re good to go. For something a little more hard-edged, build a look with the  Mitsou Leopard-Print Camisole Corset by Arianne Lingerie. Add a pencil skirt and you’re on your way to

This Leopard-Print Cami is perfect for a more edgy pin-up girl.

a 50s rockabilly look!

Retro-Style Stockings

During WWII, stockings were rationed as part of the war effort, and some women even resorted to drawing lines down the backs of their legs to look like tights! This might be one of the reasons stockings and garters are particularly important in pin-up fashion. There’s also the added bonus that a simple pull of the skirt can reveal a flirty peek at those undergarments (often the case in the pin-up world). Stockings with detail on the thigh or garters and paired with a skirt with a hemline that goes just below the tops of the stockings will add a thrill to your outfit – and an eyebrow-raising tease for anyone who looks.

Era-Specific Makeup

40s makeup had a very precise look, but luckily it’s easy to remember and achieve. Eye makeup was light, usually only on the top lid, finishing with mascara and eyeliner. Lips were very dark, generally dark red, but sometimes mauve as

Dita Von Teese's makeup fits the pin-up style

well. Nails were also bright red. Blush was natural-hued and lightly applied. So all you really need to invest in to achieve this look is the right shade of red lipstick.  See? It’s easy!

40s Hairstyle

Curls were huge during this time period – pin curls, finger waves and ringlets were all the rage, and hair was most always shoulder-length or longer. This is probably the biggest challenge of the pin-up look, with curls being very defined and tight (sometimes problematic for the curly-haired folks) and a lack of styles for short or straight hair (a BIG issue). Luckily

Hair feathers and fascinators are great for straight, short hair

though, retro trends in hats, fascinators, and feathered headbands can help out women who don’t want to bother with curling their hair. Add a vintage-style fascinator or feather clip, and you’ll achieve the look without the extra effort or hairspray.

Touches of Innocence

The most important element of the pin-up look is the touch of innocence. Pin-ups illustrations and photos have a humorous or innocent side, incorporating an “uh oh” moment or the girl’s unawareness into the story of the photo. This gives pin-ups a scandalous but energetic side. Sweet, even girlish details will greatly enhance your look. For example, you can pair an animal print camisole with a pretty white sweater to play up the feminine side. This spirit is what makes pin-up style multi-dimensional and

Her lack of awareness makes this pin-up illustration fun!

appealing, so get creative and have fun with it!

Do you have tips to looking pin-up ready?

Share with us by commenting below, on Twitter (@nowthatslingeri) and on our Facebook page!

Rachel
rachelg@nowthatslingerie.com

Photo credits and sources

Grenier Vintage Full Figure Lace Underwire Bra: http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=8413-grenier-vintage-lace-grenier-bra

Mitsou Animal-Print Cami Top by Arianne: http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=5256-mitsou-leopard-print-top-with-lace-arianne-lingerie

Pin-Up Girl with Ink: http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5lZ4y3aOozA/TAiRx32_iBI/AAAAAAAADIQ/z1DepMHsSNc/s1600/pin-up-girl-with-inkstains-c101005.jpg

Typically Pin Up Girl:
http://www.thepinupgirldiet.blogspot.com/

Dita Von Teese Makeup:
http://theplanetmakeup.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/JTM-054542.jpg

Feather clip:
http://img1.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.279017745.jpg

Featured Image:
http://www.free-extras.com/images/vintage_pinup_girl-1602.htm

http://www.julies40sproject.blogspot.com/

Research and Sources:

http://www.wikihow.com/Dress-in-American-1940s-Fashion

http://www.dollhousebettie.com/index.php?option=com_myblog&Itemid=0&lang=en&show=309

Layer, Layer, Layer

Marlene Birger chunky knit wool cardigan

One tip for keeping this style current is to layer them with other clothing. This is easy with sweater jackets, cardigans, and wraps, but it’s important with cropped and regular length sweaters too. The best part of layering is that it allows you to dress up or down an outfit – a basic cami under a long cardigan is perfect for daytime, while the same cardigan over a lacy top or even a corset makes a bolder statement for evening. Just be sure to layer carefully – since the chunky sweater will add bulk to the body, you’ll want the rest of the outfit to be tighter-fitted.

Longer is better!

Chunky sweaters of all lengths are in right now, but the most body-flattering ones are on the longer side.  Cardigans and sweater dresses that extend past the bum are dramatic and super comfortable. Again, remember the rest of the outfit should be tighter, so pair the sweater with skinny jeans or leggings, not flared pants. Another popular shape for chunky sweaters is a crop top, again paired with tighter-fitting camis underneath. But be forewarned:  this is a style that highlights the tummy area.

Details – Keep it Modern 

Chunky Sleeveless Knitted Poncho by M Missoni

The main concern with wearing a chunky sweater is looking like a grandma. To avoid this, make sure your sweater has a modern detail that makes it stand out from the back-of-the-closet pack. This detail could be a cutting edge pattern, like the one seen on the M Missoni Knitted Sweater shown below, or a style that follows another trend, like the Western-inspired Anninas chunky-knit wool cardigan, or utilizing the sweater in a new way, like the Marc Jacobs Sweater Skirt.

Accessorize with Caution

Chunky sweaters are the main focus of an outfit, so don’t over accessorize. A simple pair of earrings goes a lot farther with this look than a huge necklace or dangling bracelet. You’ll have a little more

Cable Sweater Skirt from Marc Jacobs

leeway with footwear, but tall, streamlined boots look the best and will keep your legs warm! Or, go in the other direction and wear a dainty pair of heels to elongate your legs and balance out the thickness of the sweater.

Have any other tips for wearing chunky sweaters? Share your ideas below, tell us on Twitter or on our Facebook page, or e-mail me!

Rachel
rachelg@nowthatslingerie.com

Image references & sources

Anninas Chunky-Knit Cardigan:
http://cache.net-a-porter.com/images/products/175014/175014_ou_l.jpg

M Missoni  Knitted Sweater:
http://www.polyvore.com/missoni_purple_chunky_knitted_sleeveless/thing?id=43703900

Marc Jacobs Sweater Skirt:
http://images.bloomingdales.com/is/image/BLM/products/8/optimized/1225338_fpx.tif?wid=325&qlt=90,0&layer=comp&op_sharpen=0&resMode=sharp2&op_usm=0.7,1.0,0.5,0&fmt=jpeg

Featured Image Sources:

Left:
http://www.gotoglamourgirl.com/?p=9540

Center:
http://www.the949styleguide.com/2009/10/warm-and-chunky-sweaters.html

Right:
http://www.dressrail.com/v-cowl-neck-chunky-sweater-1200.html

 There are countless instances in which younger generations (including myself) find it excruciatingly difficult to find a garment with a professional aesthetic for a job interview or for our careers. Most business attire concludes to make us look a generation older than we actually are. Honestly, I wouldn’t mind looking a couple years past my age, but I want to feel youthful at the same time. Riccardo Tisci has indeed done a fine job to create a variety of blazers that have some crisp twists to the silhouette than a traditional blazer would give. Here are some points that I extracted from these Spring 2012 Givenchy blazers to elaborate more:

1. In all these looks, the lowered points on the extended lapels create a more relaxed feel than the conventional lapels with the points at chest level. For traditional blazers, this conveys a stiff etiquette we might unintentionally give off when worn. With looks #1 and #2, the style of the boyfriend blazer also provides more space around our arms, elbows and shoulders to be much more mobile. I can’t stand it when I lift my arms and everything else I’m wearing just lifts too – and what about the often-awkward outward folding around the lapels where you’re forced to constantly pull down your blazer every so often? Trust me, these blazers will help you and I forget about those infuriating moments!
2. The egg shell hue of this blazer – instead of a pure white seen in other Spring 2012 collections – gives a softer and easier look for the eyes. It lessens the formality of the garment for a casual but still professional day at work.
   
3. Looks #3 and #4, which have that unique structure to the blazer, are perfect for fashionistas at work who want to do a little risk taking. Especially with Look #3, which has a double-lined ribbing detail right at the hips and a tail in the back. To me, this gives a powerful but subtle statement for a woman who wants to flaunt some independence and style!

Overall, these blazers are great for a younger or updated classic look for the professional woman who wants to differentiate herself from the formal blazer and just generally be a chic fashionista working it at the office!

Here are a couple of pieces I found that are great for styling with these blazers! Check out NTL’s camisoles and tops in the clothing section to see what you can do to spice up your Spring 2012 wardrobe (and Fall 2011 too of course)!

Questions? Email Lisa N. at lisan@nowthatslingerie.com, comment here below, or follow our updates on Facebook or Twitter!

References and sources:

Givenchy Spring 2012 Collection photos:http://www.style.com/fashionshows/complete/S2012RTW-GIVENCHY

Arianne Christelle silk tunic top: http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=5666-christelle-silk-tunic-arianne-lingerie

Arianne Teri camisole: http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=5498-teri-camisole-with-lace-front-applique-arianne-lingerie

TGIF (thank goodness it’s fall)… which means more incredible fall fashions! We’re talking cozy boots, colorful scarves and elegant trench coats! With the onset of cool weather (for some of  us), it is quite the challenge to keep your ensemble looking effortless and minimalistic instead of  too chunky. A simple touch of layering and playing peek-a-boo with your favorite lingerie however, is guaranteed to keep you warm yet seductive at the same time.

DKNY Pantsuit

Some of the hottest designers have come out with the classic tuxedo look for fall, such as Marc Jacobs and DKNY at New York’s Fashion Week. This isn’t altogether surprising since the wide, V-shaped lapel these tuxes offer show off the better part of our shoulders as well as our collarbones. This allows for an intimate peek at a woman’s body while still pulling off grace and tastefulness.

You can up the ante of this look by mixing and matching your favorite corset with your tux, giving your audience a little taste of sexy but still keeping it business-formal. Lace is definitely in these days, and the wide lapel of a tux allows for a playful peek at a corset’s top. Blush offers a strapless, pinstriped corset with lace from their Private Affair collection, which can be the perfect spice you need to keep your tuxedo look captivating. If you’re not the corset type, lacy bras are also a sure-fire way of attracting interest. Of course, to keep it tasteful, a sheer, see-through black or white top can be worn under your jacket and over your bra. Take a peek at Triumph’s Lacy Push-Up Bra – its lace and ribbon accents offers a touch of femininity and mischievous play at the same time.

Private Affair Pinstriped Corset by Blush, available at Now That's Lingerie.com

If you’re not much of a tuxedo fan, a fitted, well-tailored jacket is definitely essential for fall—one that can show off your feminine curves while still keeping the overall look sophisticated. We are seeing a lot of leather these days, with the biker/punk style completely taking over, a look that features leather jackets.

Punk style leather jacket

Leather jackets give off an independent, liberated chic appeal that can really strengthen the statement of your outfit, not to mention its ability to keep you snug and warm. You can keep it simple by pairing your leather jacket with a standard white top, or a tight black camisole.  Naturana Exklusiv offers a stunning silk camisole to perfect this look – its sheerness makes this top feather-light, allowing you sufficient space to move freely and comfortably within your jacket. One of the many benefits of leather jackets are its versatility, meaning any camisole can rightfully go with it, as long as it is simple enough to prevent any deterrence from the attention your leather jacket already provides. Opt for a plain colour, without any wild patterns so as to avoid looking overdone—and you are ready to go!

So there you have it, ladies, your fashion essentials for Fall! Keeping it classy is so important, but there is always space to let out your playful side with a touch of lingerie!

For more tips on fashions and trends, talk to us via Twitter and Facebook!

Always here to keep you minimalistic-ally chic,

Ellise

ellise@nowthatslingerie.com

Image Sources:

DKNY Female Tux – Photo by Fashionising.com. Link: http://www.fashionising.com/pictures/p–DKNY-SS-12-11889-1810531.html

Punk leather jacket – Photo by Altamira. Link: http://www.fashionising.com/pictures/b–Style-contrasts-Hanaa-Ben-Abdesslem-9539.html

Marc Jacobs Pantsuit – Photo by Fernanda Calfat / Getty Images. Link: http://fashion.about.com/od/latesttrends/ss/10fallclassics_3.htm

Blush Lingerie Corset – Available at http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=221641-private-affair-strapless-pinstriped-corset-with-lace-blush-lingerie 

If just the thought of wearing orange is still a little frightening to you, start with something small, like trying an orange pair of shoes, a bag or maybe a little orange jewelry to spice up your look.  As the seasons change and the bright colors turn to more muted tones, we often find ourselves clinging to those last few bright and colorful summer clothes.  Lucky for us, this fall brings a bright color into the mix.  We know it is said that orange and black are considered Halloween colors, but orange is not just for your Jack-O-Latern anymore.

Orange, which can classified as this fall’s juicest color is not as hard to wear as you may have originally thought. While orange is definitely a color that is fun and show-stopping, if you wear too much of it you may come across as a traffic pylon rather than a trendspotting woman. If you are going to venture over to the orange side, stick to only one item of orange for every outfit.

Now, you may think orange is a hard color to pull off, but you will be surprised to know that orange is a very flattering color since it instantly adds a natural glow to your skin tone.  It is just a matter of finding the right tone of orange for you.

For fall, we are seeing a range of vibrant tangerines, neon oranges and amped-up corals. When you are wearing a statement color like orange, make sure the color does not overtake you – be confident and make sure your personality shines right through the orange brightness.  (Like any style you try to pull off, confidence is the most important part of your outfit, so wear it well!)

Once you warm up to it, you will be making orange your statement color in no time.  But before you run off to grab yourself some orange pieces, let me leave you with a key piece of advice: wear orange with anything but black, otherwise you may run the risk of looking like a mascot for the Halloween season…

Ask me about fashion, and connect with us on Twitter (@nowthatslingeri) and Facebook!

Erin

erin@nowthatslingerie.com

Featured image: http://www.trendfashions.net/dressed-in-holiday-in-fashion-for-fall-2011-orange
Photo Credit: http://www.omiru.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/09/orange_fashionweektrend_090708.jpg

We have seen collaborations like Missoni and Target and Jimmy Choo and H&M, which as been a personal favorite so far. But what about the latest collaboration between Versace and H&M? It’s set to hit stores in November; the collection will include pieces for both men and women as well as a few home accessories.

Donnatella Versace and some of her pieces for H&M

If you’re like us you will probably be one of the first shoppers in line because (let’s be honest) not very many of us have the funds to buy a Versace piece, but with this H&M collaboration we can now own a piece of one of the most important brands in fashion.

The collection will be glamorous and flamboyant – everything Versace stands for. The exclusive collection will be complete with leather, prints, color and exuberance in exclusive materials at fantastic prices.

For this collaboration, Versace has gone back in time to reinvent some classic Versace designs. The women’s collection will be dominated by dresses featuring studded leather, silk and colorful prints and accessories including high heels and costume jewelry.  The men’s collection will focus on sharp tailoring, including the perfect tuxedo, as well as belts and jewelry for men. Aside for the clothing this exclusive collection will also include home accessories like pillows and bedspreads.

In addition to this exclusive fall collection, Versace has also designed a pre-spring collection for H&M, which will be exclusively available in countries with H&M on-line sales from January 19^th.

So when exactly does Versace hit H&M stores? November 19^th! (Dates may vary due to location – check your local H&M stores.)  Book the day off work, cancel all your appointments because we can pretty much guarantee if you’re not in line the morning of November 19^th you probably wont get your hands on anything Versace.

If you get the chance to grab a few pieces from the collection, email me I would love to see what you got!

Erin

erin@nowthatslingerie.com

Photo Credit: http://fabulush.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/VersaceforHM_2_lowres.jpg

Featured image taken from: http://fashionpaparazzis.com/2011/06/21/versace-for-hm-fall-2011/ 

1.   Skinny Jeans or Slim Legged Trousers

Photo Credit: http://stealthestyle.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/2011-01-05_2133.png

Yes, skinny jeans are still in style. While there may be a rise on the 60s inspired flare jean, the skinny jean should remain as a staple item in your wardrobe. The slim cut of the leg allows your leg to appear longer therefore making you look that much taller and leaner, who wouldn’t want that?

2.   Chunky Heels 

Photo Credit: http://www.talkshoes.com/images/2011/03/Marni.jpg

It seems that this fall we may be revisiting the 1960s. Chunky heels, which were praised in the 60s have made a huge comeback this fall and the best part is these retro heels are available in every color of the rainbow. We don’t know about you but we can’t wait to get a pair of chunky heels.  Our feet deserve a break from those super skinny stilettos!

3.   Outerwear

Photo Credit: http://fashion-allure.com/style/wp-content/uploads/Burberry-Prorsum-Jourdan-Dunn.jpg

Outerwear is definitely a big trend for fall and while it may be an obvious one, this outwear will become the statement piece of your outfit. Patchwork, military, bohemian, fur and colour blocking are some of the styles of outwear we can look forward to. Oh, and capes are still in style, so make sure yours is ready to go.

4.   Lace

Photo Credit: http://gossipygirlz.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/fall-2011-Fashion-Trends-Lace-Plaid-and-Bright-Hues-7.jpg

Lace is everywhere you look, and there is a pretty good reason for that. Lace is one of this season’s top trends. Neutral or colored lace can be worn with almost anything. All we ask is that if you are planning to wear head to toe lace, just keep your make up demure.

5.   Tribal

Photo Credit: http://coquette.blogs.com/.a/6a00d83451c76a69e20147e2c1b7f2970b-pi

We started to see the tribal trend over the summer in jewelry, but as we make the transition into fall the tribal trend is changing with us. We are seeing the tribal touch of every type of clothing and accessories with fringes or prints. For now stick with tops and accessories and as the weather gets colder then branch out into boots and sweaters.

Ask me about fashion!

Erin

erin@nowthatslingerie.com

Penelope Sheer Chemise by Arianne

Red: The Penelope Sheer Chemise by Arianne Lingerie

This sensual nightgown is made of sheer, seductive red lace. Its length adds a little mystery and makes this nightgown a more demure version of the classic short nightie. I personally love the split spaghetti straps with a 1920s appeal, which add an extra something special!  (I also suggest taking a peek at the Brigitte collection by Bra Doctor, also available in a fiery eye-catching red!)

Orange: Emma Cami by Arianne

This eye-catching, bright orange lacy cami will turn heads with its floral lace and the added support created by its thick straps. A mesh lining will help you keep your cool and let you wear this top as a regular camisole while looking totally hot!

Yellow:  The Giselle Dress by Arianne Lingerie

This sexy, feminine dress is also a little edgy, with its black and yellow color scheme! A low, crossover V-neckline and thick empire waist band accentuate your breasts and waist to create a gorgeous, womanly silhouette, while its below-the-knee length lets you show off just the perfect amount of skin!

Bra Doctor Lingerie's Light Luxury Cross Over Wire Free Bra

Green: The Light Luxury Wire Free Cross Over Cotton Bra by Bra Doctor

A personal favorite of the Bra Doctor herself, this Light Luxury bra is perfect for summer weather!  It is made of soft, breathable cotton with elastane to ensure an ideal fit. Also, the deep Green with Envy color is unique and absolutely to die for!  (Or you can try Crimson Fury, Denim Decadence or Smoky Gray.)

Blue: Love Rush Lace Push-Up by Blush

I have this bra, and it is a total dream to wear! The lovely lace overlay creates a beautiful and unique v-neckline, and its mesh-lined cups give a lovely shape. Even better, the striking dark blue Nightsky color is flattering on an array of different skin tones, so every woman can enjoy this lovely bra!

Emilia Lace Underwire Bra by Eva Lingerie

Violet: Emilia Lace Underwire Bra by Eva

This beautiful balconette bra features stunning embroidery and lace along the top portion of the cups, topped with a darling ribbon bow between them. Youthful, fresh, sexy and fun, this bra is one of a kind and comes with multiple options of stunning matching panties!

Multicolored Magic: Abstract Print 3/4-Sleeved Dress by Papillon Blanc

A gorgeous, timeless and eye-catching piece for nearly any occasion, this sultry dress by Papillon Blanc uniquely combines various colors in pink, blue, mauve and amber tones with white and black contrasting patterns.  With black bordered along the sleeves, neckline and bottom hem of this dress, the colors really make a statement – and help you with your wardrobe choice if you don’t know what color you feel like wearing!

The Invisible Low-Rise V Thong by Elita Lingerie

The Invisible Thong

Every garment that clings, from long, silk evening gowns to khaki work pants to cotton leggings, requires an invisible thong or invisible panty that eliminates visible panty lines (aka VPL). VPL cuts your bum cheeks in half, giving your backside a wider appearance and looks sloppy. So, to avoid attracting a whole lot of unwanted attention pick something up like the Elita Invisibles Low-Rise V Thong and feel comfortable and confident in any ensemble!

The Bikini

Ah, the bikini. The bikini is my basic go-to panty, just as jeans are my go-to basic bottoms. High quality denim actually shapes your butt and is thicker than the fabrics used in dress pants, meaning panty line isn’t a concern in your favourite jeans! Bikinis are often quite low-cut, to match the majority of most styles of jeans.  If your undies should poke out slightly when you bend over in low-slung denim, a bikini makes a much better statement than an exposed g-string, that’s for sure!

I am in love with Bra Doctor's Brigitte Low-Rise lacy thong!

The Brief

Briefs can either be very high-waisted or come in a nice, middle-rise cut. As you likely know by now, I personally prefer the high-waisted feel, which gives such a gorgeous and classic look. This is because I’m a fan of cinching my dresses at the waist and wearing very high-cut pants and shorts, and anyone who’s tried it knows how strange it feels to have two different waist lines going on! But it’s the variety of briefs that’s so awesome: for any woman uncomfortable in something ultra-high, the mid-rise brief provides the perfect compromise, not to mention they create a really beautiful 1950s hourglass silhouette.

The Sexy Panties

Now, whether it be for a significant other or just for yourself, every woman needs to have at least one special pair of panties that makes her feel like a total knockout! Don’t worry too much about versatility because these undergarments are (usually) for special occasions! Right now, my favorite sexy panty is my Bra Doctor Brigitte Sheer Lacy Low-Rise Thong in bright red lace (to go with my matching Brigitte bra!). Treat yourself to something fabulous when picking out your sexy panty – dare for some silk, soft lace and satin that feel blissful against your skin and look delectable in your underwear drawer.

See you next time!

xo

Rachel

What`s your favorite panty type? Leave me a comment below or e-mail rachel@nowthatslingerie.com.