My first pin-up of my project. I introduce to you Emily!
I met 26 year old Emily through Instagram about a year ago. She hails from Indonesia and is a certified makeup artist. Oh, and she happens to be a badass MMA fighter too. I can describe her beauty as pinup with a dark twist. With her dark hair, eclectic tattoos and off beat posing, she is a true definition of the alternative pinup model. I asked Emily a few questions on her inspirations, struggles and her tips on being pinup
First off, where has your love for the vintage/pin-up fashion come from?
It all started from the first time I watch the movie called Pin Up Girl with Betty Grable. For the first time, I loved to dress in this vintage classic style. But as time went on, my style evolved into my own signature pinup look.
How long have you been involved in the pin-up community?
I’ve known of the pin up culture since 2007, but decided to become a daily pin-up girl since around 2008-2009. By January 2015 I found my own style which is the alternative dark pinup look.
Has becoming a pin-up changed you in any ways?
Absolutely! I’ve learned how to appreciate myself a lot more, and find who I really am. However, being a pinup girl in this whole new modern world is such a huge challenge. I find people look at me in very distracting ways, talk bad about my style. But I’ve learned to be proud to be different, and take all the stare with pride because at least I know I am being myself.
Who are your inspirations?
My biggest inspirations are Bettie Page, Amber Rose, and Ms. Tess Munster.
By being a pin-up , do you see yourself influencing other women and girls?
Sometimes. Not with the way I dress and my passion in pinup culture, but my confidence. We should always be our kind of beautiful.
What are your favorite pieces to wear that make you feel confident and sexy?
I’m proud of my body, and love accentuating my curves and my figure. I love wearing wiggle dresses, skinny jeans and maybe pair it with a crop top.
What is your routine for staying fit?
I do squats, sit ups, jogging and some weight lifting every day. I also do boxing and MMA training 4 times a week also swimming every Saturday.
Being a pin-up girl in the modern day can be difficult, have you ever experienced backlash or negativity from your community?
Of Course. I’m tattooed and decided to go bald just last week. I get a lot of negativity behind my back, but rise up to the seeing myself as a unique human being, I ignore the negativity and continue to believe in myself. I hold my chin up and be proud. I know that there are those people who are just trying to pull me down and I will prove to them that I’m being real, respect my mind and I love myself for who I am.
I want everyone to know that you should try to find your true self. Try to combine the classic pinup style to the style that perfectly suits you. Also to not be scared to be different because being different is actually beautiful. Be as unique as possible because that is the most valuable thing in life.
Strong words from a strong woman. Thanks Emily for being part of this project. Your words and confidence will be inspiring so many others out there! I hope all of you follow this pin-up on Instagram and take it from her– you can be anyone you want to be.
xxKelsey
The Pin-up Girl Manila 