Marilyn Monroe – 50 years and still influencing fashion

It’s hard not to open a paper at the moment and not see an article marking 50 years since the passing of Holyrood royalty, Marilyn Monroe.
Since her death in 1962, the iconic image of Marilyn Monroe is as powerful now as it was back then.

Although only 36 at the time of her death she achieved what most actors/models could only dream of achieving in twice their lifetime. She made 29 films, sang on stage (and possibly dated?) for the US President and featured on the front cover of every top selling magazine in the world. She was the most in-demand female actress/model of her generation.


To be honest I do not really want to praise Marilyn for her acting, singing etc. because, in my opinion, I don’t think she was exactly the most talented of her time. However, one thing is for sure: Marilyn had great style. Her fun, bubbly personality was beautifully projected through her endless outfit choices.
Yes she was a pin-up and no guessing why. She had the curves, the tiny waist, the pout, the platinum blonde hair…… But what she also possessed was her own quirky dress sense. She worked the trouser suit perfectly. Her cigarette pants, knitted cardigans, sheer blouses over cone- shaped bras, were completely fashion-forward for her day.


It’s not hard to see her style being referenced in high fashion even to this day. Victoria Beckham’s signature A/W 12 dress silhouettes have a nod to the hourglass figure of Monroe. Lindsay Lohan basically styles her entire look on Monroe’s’ trademark hair, lips and suits. Madonna and Lady Gaga make no secret of wishing to emulate her. And Lana del Rey’s record company quite clearly took her to the nearest stylist and said work the Monroe effect!


So as a celebration of all the great fashion looks Monroe gave the world I have selected some of my favorite style choices. Enjoy pout, poutx