Marilyn Monroe’s iconic style (both on- and off-screen) is just as relevant now as it was when we were first introduced to that famous white dress more than 60 years ago. In honor of her birthday, we’re sharing her best style secrets for a classic look that never gets old.
Credit: Baron/Getty Images; Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images; Bettmann/Getty Images
Keep It Simple
She’s known for being the quintessential “glamour girl,” but in everyday off-screen life, Marilyn dressed much more casually. Easygoing ensembles like cropped pants paired with a fitted boat-neck sweater were mainstays in her wardrobe.
Dress for Your Body
The icon was best known for her perfect hourglass shape (35″ – 22″ – 35″), and she knew how to dress for it. Marilyn was drawn to neutral-hued, figure-flattering silhouettes – think below-the-knee pencil skirts and halter, sweetheart, and plunging necklines.
Wear Heels
Marilyn’s pumps of choice? Salvatore Ferragamo. It was actually thought that she kept one heel a bit shorter than the other to create her famous side-to-side sway as she walked. However, a Salvatore Ferragamo exhibit of her shoes proved otherwise, as every heel on display was the exact same height.
Try Red Lips
To make her lips appear fuller, Marilyn’s makeup artist would apply up to five different lipsticks and glosses to create dimension.
By Elizabeth Burns, Fashion Editor
