Back to the 50s for Vintage Day Out

For Miss Pinup 2016 contestant, Miss Lola Fondant, dressing vintage is not a once a year event, but a lifestyle choice.

With a particular fondness for the 1950s, the 27-year-old mum is frequently spotted walking around the Auckland suburb of Milford in a full skirt and voluptuous petticoats.

"My attraction to vintage and pinup culture first started as a love for the style and class of a bygone era."

This is even reflected in her home decor, from her bedroom through to the kitchen and little antiquated teacups on the white cupboard shelves.

Miss Lola Fondant is one of ten finalists who've been selected to parade the Miss Pinup stage at this year's Very Vintage Day Out in Auckland.

Contestants parade in a range of outfits, including evening wear and swimsuits, as well as show off a unique talent to compete for the ultimate title of Miss Pinup New Zealand.

Lola Fondant said it was the biggest contest she'd ever entered, but was prepared to put herself out there.

"It's a challenge, I'm awkward and stage, and I get stage fright."

However, she said in the couple of years since she joined the pin-up scene her self-confidence has grown as her style has evolved.

"Through my involvement and with their support I have found so much happiness and feel I have become a much stronger, loving person."

She draws inspiration from icons such as Audrey Hepburn, but also from those around her and her own familial role models, like her grandmother.

Alongside the Pinup contest the Very Vintage Day Out offers a range of shopping and entertainment options that all hail back to years gone by.

Among those taking to the stage would be the likes of the Darktown Strutters jazz band, the Sisters of Swing and Pineapple Productions dance troupe.

Outside would also be a display of vintage cars for motoring fashionistas to pose alongside.