A big part of a burlesque or pinup look is the makeup. I thought that I would show you a few tutorials of both styles, so you can see the similarities and diffferences up close.

 

Pinup makeup and burlesque makeup are really two distinct styles. Pinup is a more specific 1950s look, whereas burlesque is less era specific and more showy. In fact I would venture to say that burlesque makeup is a bit harder to do than pinup, but after watching these videos, I’m sure that you will be able to pull off both looks. If you’re like me, you'll find the transition from girl next door to bombshell beauty to be pretty breathtaking.

First, let’s take a look at a couple of burlesque makeup tutorials. One is a professional production in high-def with no dialog, but set to cool music. The model is an adorable Japanese girl who demonstrates the process and does the application on herself. It’s amazing how effortless she makes it look, and I have to admit, I’ve watched it several times now. She has many other great makeup tutorials and I recommend you check them all out.

With the right makeup, all you need to complete the perfect burlesque look is the perfect burlesque outfit!

The other burlesque makeup tutorial I’ve included is more homemade, but just as useful to get that burlesque look. The girl in this video is copying the now famous Christina Aguilera look from the movie "Burlesque." She talks her way through it, creating the look in front of the camera as she goes. She’s really great at explaining how the makeup is applied, and then works through each step on herself.

Remember too, that a burlesque outfit is all about the accessories.

Pinup makeup is much more straightforward and it’s really just a popular makeup style from the 1950’s. Both of these tutorials are done by talented, regular girls, but these girls really know their stuff. They both explain the different aspects of the look; the foundation, base skin tone, getting the eyes just right, the lips and of course the beauty mark. Watch and be amazed!

Read our post about the perfect pinup hair, and if you’re having a pinup photoshoot, we have all of the classic styles of hosiery to go with your pinup outfit.

I hope you find these pinup and burlesque makeup tutorials helpful and exciting. I've definitely learned a ton and can’t wait to try the pinup look myself. If you have questions about any of these makeup styles, subscribe to these girls’ YouTube channels. They’re usually very happy to answer questions and help you find success with your makeup looks. Also, our friend and local burlesque performer, Ginger Snaps, from Black Widow Burlesque is a professional makeup artist. Check out some of her incredible makeup work on Facebook at Blood and Glitter Makeup.

Here's some eye candy & pinup inspiration I've gathered for you from the fashion and entertainment worlds. This post was inspired by a thread on Pinup Looks in Modern Pop Culture in the PinupLifestyle forum - a great resource for all things pinup!

Mary Louise Parker in an ad from season 7 of the Showtime series Weeds

Gwen Stefani, contemporary icon of pinup style & the Queen of Victory Rolls

Beyonce sports a pinup look in her "Video Phone" video, 2009

Katy Perry strikes a pinup pose for the cover of her 2008 album, One of the Boys

Christina Aguilera all dolled up for her 2006 Rolling Stone shoot

A Marilyn Monroe-esque Scarlett Johansson for Dolce & Gabbana, 2009

and last but certainly not least,
Brandy looking absolutely gorgeous in Kontrol magazine earlier this year

What are some of your favorite celebrity pinup-inspired looks?