Deep love for the past- Miss Amanda Lee American pinup model
RP: Hi Amanda! You looks gorgeous as always! So tell us a little about yourself! Where were you born, where are you living now?
A: I was born in a little town outside of Hartford, Connecticut, and moved to Phoenix, AZ when I was seven. I’ve lived in Arizona ever since (save for a year when I was a teen and lived in Georgia) and love it! I have a BS in Journalism and work by day as an editor for a university. I also do a lot of freelance editing and writing—aside from all things vintage, writing and editing is my other passion. I have been dressing in vintage for about seven years and very much enjoy the process of styling my hair, makeup, and wardrobe. I love the glamour associated with the 1940s-50s and love the art of being a classy lady.
RP: How did you got to know/ get into this culture?
A: I grew up listening the big band and country music (my grandfather was a trumpet player, and my mother’s family is steeped in country/honky tonk music as well) and always had a love for the pastI began incorporating retro style into my look when I was about 19. When I took up swing dancing about seven years ago, I realized that there was a fabulous world of vintage clothing available, and it was fantastic! These fashions fit my figure type much better than modern clothing, so making the switch was easy and fun. I also very much enjoy the music from my favorite eras—everything from swing/big band to rockabilly and honky tonk—and definitely enjoy today’s vintage and rockabilly scenes. What started out as a fun hobby quickly morphed into a lifestyle for me.
RP: What was the point/decision you would be a Pin-up model?
A: I wouldn’t say that I made a decision to become a pin-up model—it started out as a fun pastime and has turned into something more. I most enjoy the expression that comes with this line of work, and as I feel such strong ties to the past, I do love being able to share this with my friends and fans!
RP: Since when have you been modeling?
A: I began modeling about four years ago, when approached to become part of an “Arizona Girls of Swing” pinup project. Vintage-style and pinup modeling is definitely a wonderful way to express my love of the 1940s and 50s!
RP:Who or what inspires you?
A: I am a huge fan of Betty Grable, and other stars like Rita Hayworth, Ginger Rogers, and Ann Sheridan. I study photos and movies as well as vintage pinup art (my favorite artist is Gil Elvgren) for style and pinup inspiration. I like to create authentic photos that are plucked straight out of the past, and fans and photographers tell me my work truly encompasses what I set out to do.
RP: Do you fulfil projects at the requests of others in general or you make individual projects too?
A: Yes, I do a little of both. I enjoy collaborating with photographers and fashion companies to create my true-to-the-era photography work.
RP: What photographers were you work with?
A: I’ve worked with many talented photographers/artist that share similar visions that are true to the pinup era. It’s an ongoing working relationship, with respect of both our views to turn out beautiful pics.
RP: What are your plans/dreams in life what you would reach?
A: I would like to continue modeling , I’m also in the process of having my book published and continue learning to play the bass.
RP: What do you think about today’s pin-up culture?
A: I think there are so many beautiful models out there today, each presenting their own take on the pinup eras.
RP: Your clothes are so classy, vintage and beautifully unique. Where do you get them?
A: I find a lot of my wardrobe at a local shop, Matilda’s Vintage Closet. I also shop online (eBay and various vintage stores) as well. Vintage clothing is definitely an obsession of mine and I have acquired a rather large wardrobe over the years. I am sure my parents would be very happy if I cleared out the two closets I took over in their house, but hey, a pinup model has gotta have a wardrobe to fit her persona!
RP: What’s your preferred hairstyle?(pin-curls, pompadour rolls, victory rolls…..)
A: My favorite style is the classic 40s “reverse” or “victory” rolls, but I also love updos a la Betty Grable and occasionally wear my hair down in loose waves.
RP: You always looks so gorgeuos! What do you do to make yourself beautiful? Do you have an especial thing or it’s only your amazing charms of your inner spirits?
A: I love old fashioned beauty rituals—there is a definite art to vintage looks! For my hair, I tend to cold set it at night on foam sticks; for hot sets, I swear by Conair Hot Sticks. I’m also a red lipstick junkie—I wear it nearly every day—and I love makeup in general, and often use products that have been around for ages, like Maybelline’s Expert Eyes brow pencil. For my skin, I actually use good old fashioned Pond’s Cold Cream (my great aunt tipped me off to this). Of couse, I do believe that true beauty comes from within, and makeup can only enhance this. ![]()
RP: Do you have a webpage where people can find you?
A: Yes, you can find me at www.jitterbugdoll.com and www.myspace.com/jitterbugdoll.
RP: Thank you Amanda, it’s so honorific that we can do this interview with you!
A:I’m so flattered to be a part of your new Web site dedicated to pinups. Thank you so much for interviewing me!
Ghoulina von Royal
To be continued!










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