Meet Rita Oh Daisy, our Pinup of the Month for July. Rita is relatively new to the world of Pinup and hails from New Zealand where July means winter, complete with cold and snow - she has some great tips for us for Pinup in winter.
How did you choose your Pinup name?
I wanted a name that I had a strong personal connection to so I started with names in my family. Rita is my maternal grandmother’s first name (except as is common in our scots ancestry she has always been known by her middle name). Daisies are my favourite flowers and the ‘Oh’ relates to me being awkward, clumsy and generally just a little bit odd.
Why do you love pinup?
I love how dressing like this makes me feel, I love the sense of community, I love how supportive and inclusive it is and I especially love that it is about fully embracing who you are and owning it rather than trying change who you are to fit in. Pinup has also helped me to fully understand that strength and femininity can definitely go together.
July means winter in New Zealand, would you like to share your favourite winter beauty tip?
Winter tends to dry my skin out so using moisturiser is a must. I also suggest taking long luxurious bubble baths.
What’s your favourite aspect of the Pinup and Rockabilly subculture?
I love the creativity and the people. The Pinup community in New Zealand is amazing. Everyone I have met has been so nice, supportive and welcoming.
When did you know that pinup was the right thing for you?
My Pinup journey started when a lovely shop assistant complimented me and suggested I enter a pinup pageant (thanks Alex). I had never thought about before so I did some research. What I found was a community of people who support each other, enjoy being creative and many who like me understand what it is like to live with a chronic illness. I found my people!
What advice would you like to give to new pinups?
I still very much see myself as a baby pinup but one piece of advice I want to give is let go of fear, forget about what other people might think of you and enjoy yourself.
Favourite business shoutout?
I have been blown away by how wonderful our local retailers here in New Zealand are. I’m currently building up my accessory collection and Sian from Cobalt Heights has been really helpful to me in this endeavour. I love my custom made necklace from Kunty Couture, thanks Kiki Kisses. I’m also grateful to my local Dove Hospice shop for my many bangles and scarves.
What is your favourite winter Pinup outfit or wardrobe essential?
Having a chronic pain condition I can sometimes struggle in the cold weather. I recommend thick stockings and layers of merino wool tops under the pretty dresses. I also like wearing bright colours on dreary winter days.
