Heidi Van Horne as “Rosie the Riveter” by Mehosh Dzadzio

There are endless contradictions for women and girls to face when trying to understand and explore their identities, and a contradiction that has always fascinated/frustrated me is the one that exists between feminism and sexiness.

We’re seemingly free as feminists to embrace our sexuality, but when it comes to being “sexy” there’s a very blurry line that is impossible to define.

The concept of “sexy” itself is full of personal opinion, cultural influence, and a million debatable factors. One person’s idea of sexy could be another person’s idea of tame sensuality and yet another person’s idea of pornographic smut.

Go beyond this to try to pin down what is “acceptable” sexiness (how it is portrayed and/or used), and the debate is never ending.

This is what leads me to pinups. As an example of this acceptable sexiness debate, it exemplifies the differing opinions. Some feel that pinups are women who are empowered and owning their beauty and sexuality. While others believe that pinups are stereotypical representations playing into harmful beauty standards.

I recently stumbled across an article where Heidi Van Horne identifies as a feminist pinup. “It may sound like a contradiction in terms, but I’m a pin-up and a feminist. I’m very specific about the way I portray women. I’ve turned down major projects that just didn’t sit well with me.”

We’ve previously had a discussion on the Shameless blog that addressed an ad that used a pinup-esque style. That post (as well as the comments) addressed not only the pinup aspect, but also the fact that it was being used for advertising (and advertising razors to shave your legs which reinforces another beauty standard). But what if we removed the advertising and shaving points from the debate? What if we were just talking about the pinup?

What do you think? Can pinups be feminist?

If not, why? And what would it take to make them feminist (if that’s possible)?

If pinups can be feminist, then what defines a feminist pinup?

[Originally written for Shameless Magazine - 02/16/11.]

I’ve just started getting my boards going, but I’m having fun exploring what the site (and it’s users) have to offer.

Take a peek at the sidebar (or the image below) for a glimpse at the types of sexy, erotic, romantic, saucy, and cheeky images I’m pinning!

Hi there, cheeky friend!

I’m updating my website and rearranging things quite a bit to suit the projects I’ll be working on.

Be sure to follow me at the sites below (just click the buttons) to hear about the updates — and, of course, all other saucy news & tidbits!

I’ll be putting my blog on hold while I concentrate on other projects.

Be sure to check out my past posts if you’re looking for something saucy, silly, and/or sexy to read!

Click here to check out the original post on my tumblr.
Or visit (and follow!) DesireeOdessa.tumblr.com.

“There is more to sex appeal than just measurements.”
- Audrey Hepburn

Yesterday, I posted 5 Things You Didn’t (or Did?) Know About The Penis.

Today we have My Breast Friends [infographic]:

Are you an expert in all things penis-related? Do you know every little tidbit of trivia when it comes to the male tool?

Yes or no, here are a few “things you might have wondered about your penis, but were afraid to ask”:

No. 1: Your Penis Does Have a Mind of Its Own

No. 2: Your Penis May Be a ‘Grower’ or a ‘Show-er’

No. 3: Your Penis Is Shaped Like a Boomerang

No. 4: You Can Break Your Penis

No. 5: Most Penises in the World Are Uncut

Wanna know more info behind these phallic factoids? Check out
5 Things You Didn’t Know About Your Penis from Men’s Health at WebMD.

Frederick’s of Hollywood has released a few pieces for the upcoming holidays which are perfect for stuffing your stocking!

Here are a few of my favourites:

Sequin Bow & Lurex Panty

The Audrina Chemise

Elena Wrap Chemise

Lace Sling And Mesh Flyaway Babydoll