Introduction
When you think of a classic pinup portrait, two legendary names likely come to mind: Vargas and Elvgren. These iconic artists defined the golden era of pinup art, but with distinct differences in style, attitude, and mood.
So when clients ask, “What style should I choose for my custom pin up girl portrait?”—we start with this timeless question:
Are you a Vargas girl or an Elvgren darling?
In this blog, we’ll compare Vargas art and Elvgren style so you can confidently choose the look that fits your vibe.
Meet the Masters of Pinup
✦ Alberto Vargas – The Elegant Painter
Known for his soft airbrushed style, Vargas elevated pinup portraits into fine art. The quintessential Vargas girl was:
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Refined and ethereal
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Sensual but never vulgar
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Draped in flowing fabrics or lingerie
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Rendered with delicate lines and romantic shading
A true Vargas painter, his work appeared in Esquire and Playboy, setting the tone for high-glamour pinup art that feels dreamy and luxurious.
✦ Gil Elvgren – The Playful Storyteller
Elvgren’s work defined the American girl-next-door fantasy. His pinup girls were:
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Flirty and fun
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Caught in cheeky “oops!” moments
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Dressed in bright colors and fashionable clothing
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Often reacting to playful surprises (think gusts of wind, mischievous pets, or wardrobe slips)
His paintings were full of energy and innocence, making Elvgren style ideal for those who want a lighthearted, bold, and charming pinup portrait.
Which Style Fits You?
| Trait | Vargas Girl | Elvgren Girl |
|---|---|---|
| Mood | Glamorous & Sensual | Playful & Flirty |
| Style | Soft, Dreamy, Classic | Bold, Cheeky, Colorful |
| Poses | Serene & Confident | Dynamic & Narrative |
| Ideal For | Boudoir, elegance, vintage chic | Retro fun, birthdays, quirky vibes |
Choosing Your Pinup Portrait Style
When ordering a custom pin up girl portrait from Pinup Portrait, we’ll help guide your decision based on your:
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Personal vibe
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Outfit and hair inspiration
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Preferred level of flirtation or elegance
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Reference photos and poses
Want a high-society look? Go Vargas.
Want to wink at the viewer? Try Elvgren.
You can even blend both—many of our custom pinup art pieces are tailored hybrids to match your personality perfectly.
Why It Matters
Picking the right aesthetic isn’t just about the artwork—it’s about how it makes you feel. A pinup portrait is meant to reflect your power, personality, and beauty. Understanding these art styles ensures your piece captures exactly the story you want to tell.
Conclusion
Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of Vargas art or the charm of Elvgren’s playful world, your custom pin up portrait should feel like you—timeless, stunning, and full of personality.
At Pinup Portrait, we bring both styles to life using your photo, vision, and inspiration.
Call to Action
Ready to find your pinup style? Whether you're a Vargas beauty or an Elvgren sweetheart, we’ll craft your perfect portrait.
👉 Start your custom pin up journey today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a WW2 pin up girl?
WW2 pin ups were images of confident, stylish women used to boost morale among soldiers during the war.
Who was Alberto Vargas?
Vargas was a famous painter whose "Vargas Girls" became the gold standard of WW2 pinup art.
Why are WW2 pinups still popular today?
They represent strength, beauty, and resilience — and continue to inspire retro art and fashion.
