Say hello to Holly Von Merlot! Our Pinup of the month for September hails from Calgary, Canada and loves the unique opportunity Pinup gives us all to be ourselves and express our own unique style.
How did you choose your Pinup name?
My pinup name comes from my family name before I got married, Hawley, I just used the normal spelling for Holly. And Merlot is my favourite wine! Then I added the Von because I love Dita Von Teese.
Why do you love pinup?
There is no wrong way to do pinup, there are so many different ways to express yourself. I also really love teaching others how to do hair and makeup, it's wonderful being able to help others discover their own version of pinup.
Would you like to share your favourite beauty tip?
Always wear sunscreen and always wash your face before bed! Taking care of your skin is very important.
When did you know that pinup was the right thing for you?
I discovered pinup roughly 10 years ago and slowly started immersing myself in it. I always liked being alternative and different so pinup style really attracted me. I love putting together outfits for events, either matchy matchy or outside of the box print mixing. But other than just the way dressing makes me feel, its the amazing people I have met since becoming a part of the pinup scene.
What advice would you like to give to new pinups?
Don't be afraid to stand out! There are people out there who will not understand it but those aren't your people. Find a group of pinups in your community to build your confidence and make new friends. The great thing about pinup is that anybody can do it, if you want to be a pinup just do it!
Favourite business shoutout!
Would definitely have to be Vixen by Micheline Pitt. Her prints are unique and she loves Halloween as much as I do. And all of her staple pieces are so well made, plus everything has pockets!
What's your favourite season?
This one is really hard for me because I love certain things from all the seasons! But I'm going to have to go with Fall because its still warm but not enough to worry about your makeup melting! Also my birthday and Halloween are in the Fall.
Photos taken by Merlot Cheesecake Photography