The Most Famous Pin-up Girl, Ranked

Choose the pin-up girl you think is the most famous!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Jul 13, 2024 07:47
Pin-up girls have been iconic figures in pop culture, celebrated for their style and the distinct aesthetic they bring to various media. Over the years, numerous models have become known as pin-up icons, each bringing their own unique flair and leaving a lasting impact on fashion and art. By ranking these individuals, fans gain a chance to acknowledge and celebrate the influence of these figures. A ranking system also helps newcomers and enthusiasts alike to understand the historical significance and popularity of each pin-up model. By casting your vote, you contribute to a collective recognition, shaping an informed perspective on who stands out in this intriguing field. This can serve as a guide for those looking to delve deeper into the history of pin-up art and its prominent figures.

Who Is the Most Famous Pin-up Girl?

  1. 1
    27
    points
    Bettie Page

    Bettie Page

    Known for her distinctive bangs and risqué modeling, Bettie Page is often referred to as the 'Queen of Pinups.'
    • Signature Look: Jet black hair with short bangs
  2. 3
    16
    points
    Jane Russell

    Jane Russell

    An American film actress, Jane Russell came to prominence in the 1940s and 1950s, known for her voluptuous figure and her roles in Howard Hughes' films.
    • Breakthrough Role: 'The Outlaw' (1943)
  3. 4
    13
    points
    Brigitte Bardot

    Brigitte Bardot

    A French actress, singer, and fashion model, Brigitte Bardot was one of the best-known sex symbols of the late 1950s and 1960s.
    • Landmark Film: 'And God Created Woman' (1956)
  4. 5
    11
    points
    Rita Hayworth

    Rita Hayworth

    Rita Hayworth was an American actress and dancer who became a glamorous icon of the 1940s, starring in a number of successful films.
    • Iconic Role: Gilda in the 1946 film 'Gilda'
  5. 6
    10
    points
    Jayne Mansfield

    Jayne Mansfield

    Jayne Mansfield was an American film, theater, and television actress. She was also a nightclub entertainer, a singer, and one of the early Playboy Playmates.
    • Notable Achievement: Major Hollywood sex symbol of the 1950s and early 1960s
  6. 7
    6
    points
    Sophia Loren

    Sophia Loren

    Sophia Loren is an Italian film actress and singer, known for her captivating performances in numerous films and her striking beauty.
    • Acclaimed Performance: Won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in 'Two Women' (1961)
  7. 8
    1
    points
    Raquel Welch

    Raquel Welch

    Raquel Welch is an American actress and singer known for her portrayals of strong female characters and becoming a sex symbol in the 1960s and 1970s.
    • Iconic Appearance: Wearing a doe-skin bikini in 'One Million Years B.C.' (1966)
  8. 9
    0
    points
    Mamie Van Doren

    Mamie Van Doren

    An American actress, model, singer, and sex symbol, Mamie Van Doren was one of the first actresses to imitate the look of Marilyn Monroe.
    • Comparable: Considered a 'Blonde Bombshell'
  9. 10
    0
    points
    Ann-Margret

    Ann-Margret

    A Swedish-American actress, singer, and dancer, Ann-Margret was known for her roles in 'Bye Bye Birdie' (1963) and 'Viva Las Vegas' (1964).
    • Notable Films: 'Bye Bye Birdie' and 'Viva Las Vegas'

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About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most famous pin-up girl. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or pin-up is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 2332 views
  • 110 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Movers & Shakers

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each pin-up once every 24 hours. The rank of each pin-up is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

Additional Information

More about the Most Famous Pin-up Girl

Bettie Page
Rank #1 for the most famous pin-up girl: Bettie Page (Source)
During the early to mid-20th century, pin-up girls became a cultural phenomenon. They were models whose images were mass-produced and displayed on calendars, posters, and magazines. These images often depicted women in playful, flirtatious poses. The appeal lay in their combination of beauty, charm, and a touch of fantasy.

The concept of pin-up girls emerged during World War II. Soldiers stationed far from home sought comfort and a reminder of normal life. Pin-up images provided a sense of connection and motivation. They were often tucked into lockers, hung on walls, or carried in pockets. These images became symbols of hope and a brighter future.

Pin-up girls were not just about appearance. They represented an idealized version of femininity and confidence. They often exuded a sense of independence and strength. This was particularly significant during a time when traditional gender roles were being challenged. Women were entering the workforce in large numbers, taking on roles previously reserved for men. The pin-up girl became a symbol of this new, empowered woman.

The style of pin-up art varied, but certain elements remained consistent. Bright colors, playful expressions, and suggestive poses were common. The clothing often included swimsuits, dresses, or lingerie. The goal was to be alluring without being explicit. The images were designed to be both tasteful and tantalizing.

Pin-up artists played a crucial role in shaping this genre. They used their skills to create images that balanced realism with fantasy. Some artists became famous for their distinctive styles. Their work helped define the visual language of the pin-up girl.

The popularity of pin-up girls extended beyond soldiers. They became a part of mainstream culture. Magazines and advertisements featured pin-up images. Hollywood embraced the trend, with actresses often posing for pin-up photos. These images were widely circulated and admired.

The influence of pin-up girls can still be seen today. They have left a lasting mark on fashion, art, and popular culture. Modern interpretations of pin-up style continue to appear in various forms. The legacy of the pin-up girl endures as a symbol of beauty, confidence, and empowerment.

In summary, pin-up girls captured the imagination of a generation. They provided comfort and inspiration during challenging times. Their images celebrated femininity and strength. The art and culture of the pin-up girl remain influential, reflecting a unique blend of allure and empowerment. This enduring appeal speaks to the timeless nature of their charm.

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