The Queen of the Pin-ups
I would be surprised if you hadn’t heard of Bettie Page. Like quite literally like “OH MY GOD! You don’t know who Bettie Page is?????”. But then again I would have the same reaction if you told me you hadn’t read any Terry Pratchett books “You WHAT!!? Quick, take my copy of The Colour of Magic and read it immediately!!!” (I’m such a nerd *sigh*).
For those of you who don’t know, Bettie Page was quite possibly the most famous pin up/fetish model of all time. She modeled for fetish catalogues, men’s magazines, pin-up publications and advertisements. She was a ground breaking with her modeling choices, especially the fetish shoots. Without her popularity in the 50’s (and subsequent resurgence in the 80’s), the careers of people like Dita Von Teese and Bernie Dexter would not be possible and burlesque would not be what it is today. Even our own Sapphire Demure has done a Bettie tribute act.
I just love her smile. She’s was fresh and vibrant! Her style was impeccable. Her hair style, those long dark tresses and that curved fringe, has been imitated by women all over the planet. She is the very definition of cheesecake.
Here is a super cute video of Bettie dancing. Truth be told, she was a pretty awful dancer, but her face is so full of life and happiness that you barely notice:
And here is a marvelous example of some of her fetish and bondage work:
http://youtu.be/g5sXK47brwo
Sadly, Bettie died on 11 December 2008. Although she is no longer with us, she is not forgotten. Her legacy will last well into the future and ladies will always be looking to her for inspiration. I know I do!
xoxo
Clara
