Have you seen the newest feature here at Rod Authority? “Rockin Rod Authority” brings back the grassroots of music mixed in with our hot rod culture. What better timing then to introduce some of our lovely “Babe of the Month” gals who are not only models but make a living as musicians as well. Last month we introduced you to Miss Ruby Woo, a Latina hailing out of the City of Angels with lots of California-soul influence.

For July, we introduce you to our Hawaiian beauty, Vivi Louise. Her band, “The Ramblin Sweethearts,” is gearing up for some fun gigs around the San Diego area this summer. Vivi’s not only stirring up hearts on vocals, but she also can play a mean guitar. I recently photographed Vivi for my upcoming 2020 calendar down in San Diego at Nostalgia Ranch with Jay Dean’s killer 1932 Ford 5 Window Coupe.

Name: Vivi Louise

Occupation: Model, make-up artist, musician

Sign: Taurus

Hometown: Kailua, Hawaii

Current residence: Carlsbad, California

Hair color: Light brown

Eye color: Brown

How did you get into pinup modeling?

Well, I’ve been into the rockabilly/vintage lifestyle since I was a teen, so it evolved from that. I would go see bands and attend car shows religiously. I started meeting people with similar interests, who encouraged me to try “pinup” modeling. I was finally talked into my first car shoot at what was the “Ventura Primer Nationals” years ago; the photos were published in a well-known magazine. That’s when I knew I had to just go for it.

Who are some companies you shoot for?

Secrets in Lace lingerie and Stop Staring Clothing are who I work with the most, and adore; though I’ve worked with many other lovely retro and modern companies (and a lot via social media.)

What do you enjoy most about modeling? I love being able to express myself through a style that has always felt very natural to me. I’m also grateful it’s lead me to work with brands and magazines I’d been into years before I even knew modern pin-up modeling existed. It’s pretty surreal!

What do you love most about pinup fashion?

It’s classy and timeless, yet fiercely sexy.

What’s your favorite style of lingerie?

I like to mix it up — everything from edgy and vampy to more delicate and soft modern styles. But, of course, vintage-inspired is my “go-to” look. 

What’s your favorite classic car?

It’s always been a ‘59 Impala, though I’ll happily take any car from that year (‘59 tailfins were the best).

Any family into classic cars?

My Dad is definitely a car buff, though he’s more into muscle cars (and motorcycles) than hot rods. He’s always up for a good classic car show though!

What was the last car show you attended?

The Grand National Roadster Show — definitely one of the best I’ve seen.

Recent publications:

I was recently on the cover of Ol Skool Rodz with Jesse Martinez’s 53 Chevy (shot by Mitzi) and the cover of Garters and Grills Magazine.

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Modeling goals:

To keep pushing myself to do better and bigger things (in all aspects of life, really).

Who’s your favorite Hollywood starlet, and why?

I don’t have a favorite per se, as I draw a lot of inspiration from many classic and some modern ladies; though I will say Hedy Lamarr is one of the tops. Not only was she stunningly beautiful and charming, but she was brilliant as well.

Hobbies:

Family time, traveling, playing music (guitar), fitness, getting fancy and taking photos (who’d have known)?!

What instruments do you play?

Guitar

How did you get into playing music?

When I was 13, my Dad gifted me one of his bass guitars. I learned the basics and even formed a short-lived punk band, but I grew bored with it. I always wanted to learn the guitar or drums, but both were too expensive at the time. Fast forward to a couple of years ago, I picked up one of my fella’s acoustics one day, sheerly out of boredom, and decided to learn chords. Then, I started learning my favorite songs. From there, it became an addiction where I was playing every day. Now, we play in a band together.

What’s your biggest musical influence? Music has always been a massive part of my life, and I love seeing other badass ladies killing it in the industry. However, my biggest music inspiration has always been my Dad.

Where can we see more of your work? For modeling @Vivilouisepinup on Instagram and Facebook. For music @theramblinsweethearts