Marilyn Monroe wasn’t just a true Hollywood icon of a lifetime. Besides being a phenomenal actress, she also set the standard for beauty and glam in Hollywood. On the silver screen, Marilyn was bold, and on the red carpet, she was nearly outrageous. When the camera and lights switched off, she retreated to Norma Jean, and her vintage style was almost invisible.
Marilyn Monroe’s looks continue to inspire generations, but nearly no one can do it quite like her. The combination of her perfect silhouette and her persona put her head and shoulders above the rest.
If you’re a queen looking to go for a sleek Monroe look, you’re in the right place. We’re about to dive into 11 of the most stunning looks donned by Marilyn Monroe that have stood the test of time.
1. “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend” Pink Satin Dress
One of the most timeless pieces worn by Marilyn was in the 1953 film, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes. The pink satin strapless gown that Marilyn wore in the performance of “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend” remains an iconic Hollywood image.
The gown, designed by William Travilla, radiates empowerment and allure. Hollywood elite who’ve paid homage to this look include Madonna, Margot Robbie, and Kylie Jenner.
Marilyn Monroe is a Hollywood icon and a cultural phenomenon, nearly shaping American society’s perception of beauty in the last 50 years. If you’re a student working on such an assignment, you can pay for essay and get a professional to craft a master paper for you.
2. Gold Lamé Gown from Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, 1953
This is another vintage original created by William Travilla for the same film, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes. This was a sunray-pleated, gold lame halter style gown that was incredibly plunging and turned Marilyn into a walking goddess. The gown was created from a single complete circle of gold lame.
Due to its provocative and daring plunging v-neckline that was quite wide-set, Marilyn caused the media to go into a frenzy. The look was even declared “vulgar” by Joan Crawford.
3. “The Seven Year Itch” White Halterneck Dress
One of the most iconic images to ever come out of Hollywood is that of Marilyn Monroe standing above a subway grate, the wind blowing up the dress.
The dress was worn on the set of the whimsical comedy, The Seven Year Itch, designed by Travilla. The fabric was rayon-acetate crepe, heavy textured but light enough to sway in the wind. The dress was bias-cut, with a halter neck and sunburst pleats. Once the breeze fell on the dress and it was lifted, Marilyn moved from innocence to seduction.
4. Hot Pink Wiggle Dress from Niagara
Another Monroe classic, the pink wiggle dress from the ’53 movie Niagara was racy yet sophisticated. The dress featuring a cutout under the bust was designed by Charles Le Maire and Dorothy Jeakins. Its satin fabric, bow embellishment, and flashy fuchsia shade make it an unforgettable piece.
5. Mermaid Evening Gown for the 1962 Golden Globes Dress
Marilyn Monroe wasn’t awarded by Hollywood as frequently as she was the biggest star of her time. The 1962 Golden Globes was one of the rare occasions when her talent was rewarded. For this special occasion, Monroe wore a green, sequined evening gown accessorized by beautiful diamond earrings.
How do you know that the look was iconic? Kim Kardashian wore the same at the 2022 Met Gala.
6. Dress to Wedding with Arthur Miller
In 1956, Norma Jean Mortensen got married to playwright Arthur Miller, at the wedding she had always dreamed about. On this day she looked perfect: not as Marilyn the actress, but as Marilyn the girl who just wanted to find love. The dress was a touch of simplicity with a square neckline, ruched bust, and sheer sleeves.
7. White Dinner Dress in “All About Eve”, 1950
The image of a picture-perfect Miss Casswell (Marilyn Monroe) attending a dinner party in a cream and gold gown is one to remember forever. The ensemble was completed with a white, fur coat and white gloves. Now, the only thing that was missing was a crown or tiara.
8. Oscar Dress in 1951
In this clean, classic, and quintessentially American debonair gown, Monroe showed again why she was the one true starlet. The black tulle gown was well-chosen and designed for Marilyn’s sole appearance at the Oscars. Shortly before her award was presented, Marilyn noticed that her skirt was torn and nearly panicked. A seamstress however stitched up the damage in no time.
In a way, it echoed her relationship with the film industry but never quite gave her the recognition she desired. And, yes, Billie Eilish tried this at the Met Gala.
9. Orange Gown in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes
If you’ve watched Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, then you must be familiar with the orange fishtail gown that Marilyn wears at the ball. That’s the moment everyone gasps as Marilyn cruises down the runway alongside co-star Jane Russell who looks equally stunning.
10. White Button-up and Jeans
Most people are familiar with the glamorous and elegant dresses that Marilyn Monroe was famous for. With the button-up and denim style, Marilyn showed that she could look good in anything.
The look was a white cotton voile blouse, a brown belt, western booties, and some Lady Levi’s. This look was also among the first to popularize denim for women.
11. Satin Slip Dress At Press Party in 1956
Marilyn again looked like a deity walking among us mere mortals in the sleek black satin slip dress she was wearing in ’56 at a presser in her L.A home. The dress oozed simplicity and echoed who Marilyn was off the camera – laid back but always beautiful.
Wrapping Up
Marilyn Monroe was the complete package: a Hollywood cultural icon, an all-American beauty, and a fashion icon and futurist. These eleven looks are just some in the armory of the great Marilyn that have resonated and lived through the ages.
Her entire legacy lives on, with her look, personality, and charm coming through each camera shot. Long live Marilyn, long live the Queen!
