Polka dots, high waisted capri pants matched with bodycon tops with plunging necklines and rolled up hair are all the main characteristics of the iconic pin-up style. While it has been decades since the pin-up style has been widely popular, even today we can see the remnants of it through occasional dramatic cat-eye makeup, bold blood-red lipstick as well as through sexy figure-flaunting wardrobe. So, if you've thought about rocking the pin-up style in the 21st century, check out the following suggestions.

Look for authentic wardrobe pieces

The tight-fitting silhouette is the first in the line of the characteristics of pin-up style. Try to pick out figure-flattering garments which will best accentuate your curves. The garments need to highlight all your assets and allow you to flaunt your hourglass figure. In case you’re shaped in a different way, pick out waist-forming belts to help you accentuate your midriff and create the illusion of an hourglass. To visually widen your hips, wear a fluffy skirt, and if you already have a curvaceous figure, then a tight pencil skirt will accentuate your assets flawlessly. Make sure that you go for high-waisted accents and tight-fitting shapes in order to make every curve of your body emphasized. Tops and blouses with a plunging neckline are a must, especially when you tuck them into your high-waisted capri pants. Body-flattering and A-line dresses with polka dots are the next piece of wardrobe to consider if skirts and pants don’t fit into your pattern. 

Makeup goes a long way

If you've been in love with sun-kissed skin ever since it first became popular, you'll have to forget all about bronzers when aiming for a pin-up look. Pale skin, strong brows, a perfectly defined lash line with plenty of cat-eye drama and bold, ravishing red lips were the signature look of the pin-up era. Instead of going full-on pin-up with both wardrobe and makeup, feel free to do your maquillage as the pin-up girls did and stick to your current favourite clothes. No need to go for fluffy skirts, but rock your favourite maxi dresses and bring in some edge with retro makeup. By mastering liquid eyeliner, cat-eye and long lashes in combination with fair skin, accentuated brows, and long red nails, you'll be rocking the pin-up style like a true retro icon.

Consider wearing legendary hairstyles 

The hair is the next important factor that made pin-up girls become what we remember them by. Sexy curves and dramatic makeup wouldn’t have had that much effect if their hairstyle hadn’t been on point. So, for channelling your inner pin-up dame, you'll need to let go of your hair straightener and add volume to your hair. For starters, soft retro waves will add class to your entire look. If you'd like to achieve a more permanent vintage look, think about making Bettie Paige bangs. However, if you’re afraid your face wouldn’t look nice with such short bangs, go for a barrel roll treatment and add some volume to that fringe. Victory rolls are the ultimate pin-up hairstyle, so if you are not in a hurry (because they’ll require plenty of time to do), sit down and start making your hairstyle.

Accessories make a lot of difference

Now that you’ve done your signature hairstyle, it’s time you accessorize to the max. A floral hair clip can be a cute retro addition to your locks while adding a real vintage vibe to the entire outfit. If for some reason you maybe didn't manage to pull off the victory rolls, you can always use a headscarf to mask the hairstyle but still add some pin-up flair to your look. With a top-knotted bandana, your waves or barrel roll bangs will get all the retro-chic you need to look like you've truly gone back in time. With bangle bracelets, your vintage ensemble will look flawless.

Final thoughts

When going for a pin-up look, you do not need to go for all the elements but feel free to mix the trademark makeup with modern clothing pieces. Hairstyles are sometimes enough to allow you to channel the vintage look if you add a bit of bold red lipstick and some drama to your eyes. However, feel free to go full-on pin-up and dress up, accessorize and do your hair and makeup like in the 50s.