I can’t tell you how excited I am to bring you this exclusive interview with the reigning queen of pin-up, Bernie Dexter. I’ve been a fan of Bernie for even longer than I’ve been blogging, so it was an absolute honor to ask her a few questions for The Lingerie Addict.
But before we get started, I just want to say that Bernie Dexter’s famous “nice act” isn’t an act at all. From the start of our interview to the finish, she was one of the nicest, kindest and most gracious people I have ever had the pleasure of dealing with. And when you remember that she’s a celebrity with literally thousands of people demanding her time, her demeanor becomes all the more impressive.
I hope you enjoy reading this interview as much as I enjoyed giving it, and when you’re done, remember to like Bernie Dexter’s fanpage on Facebook!
First of all, I just want to say thank you so much for letting me interview you. I know you’re a very busy professional, and I appreciate you sparing a few moments of your time. So let’s hop right to it! As an icon in the world of pin-up modeling and retro fashion, how do you feel about the recent surge of interest in all things vintage?
Thank you sooo MUCH!, I think the recent surge and interest in vintage is amazing. Honestly, I do not think it ever left, but the internet has shown what a HUGE interest there really always has been. It is wonderful to see women embrace their femininity!
Not only are you a model, you’re a designer as well (and a darned good one, if I say so myself). What makes your designs different from other brands in the world of vintage reproduction fashion?
Thank you very much again! Well, a big thing is that my collection is 100% made in the U.S.A.!!! A lot of companies are importing from China & India.
I design from my heart…things I want to wear that I think are flattering on women and girls. I am not JUST in it to make money (though it would be nice) like a lot of the other companies. My designs are a reflection of my own personal style & a celebration of the female form. I choose fabrics based on their comfort and beauty, not just what I see everyone else using, because sometimes women may not know what they really want until it is presented to them.
I prefer to design using 100% cotton and cotton/spandex blends because it just feels better on. I LOVE to dance, so I keep this in mind with choosing fabrics and fit! One of my rules is if I can’t dance in it…forget it! After all, I do wear my own collection nearly every day & even when on the road doing appearances & Rockabilly shows.
I also LOVE to use colorful prints. It is so nice to give a new point of view rather then regurgitate what there is already a gluttony of.
What are the best parts of your job?
The best parts of my job are knowing I helped other females feel better about themselves & inspired them to follow their dreams.
The worst parts?
Being compared to pin ups of the past. I really had an uphill battle for a few years trying to show people that I am not an impersonator. Finally, people can see the difference and that there is more to me than just a haircut!
Many people think of you as a sex symbol…Ohhh I love it! Heheheee
How would you define sexy?Sexy is being comfy in your own skin & exuding confidence. Nothing is more of a turn off than someone who comes off as self-entitled or full of themselves.
Do you have any lingerie tips for my readers who want to get that perfect pin-up shilouette?
YES! Foundations! foundations! foundations! I highly recommend my BernieDexter for Lucy B. Merry Widow! It holds everything in without being as extreme as wearing a corset. When you get comfy with the merry widow, then you can add the Bernie Dexter for Lucy B. steel-boned corset waist cintcher that will be coming soon!
If a woman is just discovering pin-up lingerie, but isn’t sure how to start buying it, what’s the one piece you think she needs in her lingerie drawer?A garter belt and stockings…that was how I started! Or you can kill 3 birds with one stone with the Bernie Dexter for Lucy B. Merry Widow!
Can you give us one of your personal “lingerie rules?
Save the ruffles & frillies for at home and in the bedroom. Nothing worse then lumps under your clothing! Keep it sleek and smooth under your clothing. ;)
Just a couple of “quickie” questions…
–what’s your favorite color?
red
–your favorite animal?
Cats i love alley cats!
–your favorite type of lingerie?
merrywidows!
And finally, the most important question of all, where can we buy your stuff?
http://berniedexter.com/
Lucy B “Tigress” Soft Cup Bralette & High Waist Knicker
Rhonda Shear “Pin Up Girl” Bra & Lace Brief
Rago Satin and Lace Bra & Control Brief
Dottie’s Delights “Millie” Black Bra & Sheer Dot Knickers
Lucy B “Hardware” Bullet Bra & Garter Panty
Lucy B “Lace Mirage” Bullet Bra & Garter Panty
Hopeless Lingerie “Omega” Bamboo Jersey Cropped Cami & Knicker
Norwegian Wood “Triad” Harness Bra & High Waist Ruffle Panties
Between the Sheets “Airplay” Mesh Bralette & High Waist Knicker
Made by Niki “Feel” Bullet Bra & Brazilian Knicker
Elle Macpherson “Maria” Silk Satin Bra & High Waisted Briefs
ModCloth “Weekend Spent Solo” Bralette & Retro High Waist Panties
Kiss Me Deadly “Amelie” Bra & Panty Girdle
