The Motor City Belles originally began as a Facebook group named “Pin ‘em up” created on August 9, 2014 by Elle Raine and Jillian. The group was created after a group of Michigan ladies attended the Thunder Over Michigan air show in Belleville, Michigan. Having a private group where they could discuss future events to dress up and do photo shoots at seemed like a great idea. After Thunder, the group started planning the theme for the 2015 Thunder Over Michigan show and in the meantime, they were requested by a friend to put together a 1940’s themed fashion show for the 75th anniversary of the city of Clawson, Michigan. During this time, the group name of Motor City Belles was proposed by The Duchess who had been coordinating the group’s photo shoot opportunities since before the 2014 air show. Given that the girls are primarily based in Southeastern Michigan, the name worked perfectly!
So why choose pin up for the main theme for the group? Pin up art has a sense of class that puts aside modern idealistic and at times unrealistic beauty standards. Classic and creative poses, glamorous and flirty attire, and appreciation for the female form no matter what shape or size or color. The Belles have a great appreciation for vintage fashion and the history surrounding it and taking it that step further and bringing back a piece of it to share with modern society really appealed to them. At times they also enjoy bringing some Cosplay flare into some of their outfits, for a little extra fun! Why limit yourself when you can bring it all together and be fabulous!