On June 1, 1926, Norma Jeane Mortenson-Baker, widely known as Marilyn Monroe, was born. Radiant throughout her entire career, she remains unforgettable for her blonde curls, playful smile, and exquisite figure. The actress also gained fame for the incredible outfits her characters wore, meticulously chosen by top costume designers. To draw attention to her, designers of that era, including William Travilla, favored sheath dresses, premium fabrics, and striking colors that continue to leave a lasting impression.
The white dress from “The Seven Year Itch” (1954)
Marilyn Monroe in the film “The Seven Year Itch” (1954)
An open back, a deep neckline, and an XXL-sized skirt – this is perhaps the most iconic dress in cinema history. Created by William Travilla specifically for the film, Marilyn Monroe allowed the air from a subway grate to lift her skirt in an elegant motion. The scene, marked by two kisses between the actress and her on-screen partner Tom Ewell, saw the dress as a reflection of the character’s persona: naive yet mischievous. The public filming of the scene required 14 takes, attracting the attention of curious onlookers and photographers eager to witness the dress’s movement. Shots marred by public outcry had to be reshot in a private Hollywood studio.
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The pink dress from “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes” (1953)
Marilyn Monroe in the film “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes” (1953)
Following a procession of dancers in flowing gowns, Marilyn Monroe launches into one of cinema’s most famous musical numbers: “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend.” In a striking pink strapless gown with matching evening gloves, she captivates the audience and other characters with her dazzling appearance. The satin pink dress, featuring a dramatic bow at the waist, was also designed by William Travilla, who collaborated with the actress on numerous films. At the last minute, this dress replaced the original costume: lingerie adorned with precious stones. Following the release of controversial nude photographs of Marilyn Monroe, director Howard Hawks opted for a less revealing ensemble.
The gold dress from “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes” (1953)
Marilyn Monroe in the film “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes” (1953)
In “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes,” William Travilla unleashed his imagination. Inspired by Marilyn Monroe’s alluring figure, the designer and friend of the actress created another iconic outfit: the famous gold dress with a stunning décolletage. This extraordinary gown, appearing only briefly in the film, remains a cinematic gem. And for good reason – William Travilla stitched the dress directly onto Marilyn Monroe’s body, allowing him to perfectly drape her curves.
The fuchsia dress in “How to Marry a Millionaire” (1953)
Marilyn Monroe in the film “How to Marry a Millionaire” (1953)
In this film, Marilyn Monroe appears in a luxurious, one-shoulder fuchsia satin dress. Another creation by William Travilla, it features a bustier combined with an asymmetric shoulder strap through a cutout. A testament to the era’s fashion, “How to Marry a Millionaire” is replete with iconic ensembles worn by Marilyn Monroe: a red pin-up style swimsuit encrusted with diamonds; a white robe; and, of course, a white pencil dress with a fur stole. Charles LeMaire, responsible for the film’s costumes, received an Oscar in 1954.
The lilac sweater in “Let’s Make Love” (1960)
Marilyn Monroe in the film “Let’s Make Love” (1960)
Despite the parade of extravagant gowns, Marilyn Monroe could charm anyone even in the simplest attire. When Jean-Marc Clément (Yves Montand) arrives at a New York theater to observe rehearsals for a satirical play based on his life, he certainly doesn’t expect to come face-to-face with Amanda Dell, majestically portrayed by Marilyn Monroe at the peak of her beauty. It was 1960, and the actress swayed her hips, dressed simply in a pinkish-lilac knitted sweater and black tights. Pure sensuality, especially as she sings the deceptively innocent song “My Heart Belongs to Daddy”!
Based on materials from vogue.fr