Marilyn Monroe 50 Years Later: Celebrating an Icon

Source: lyssahoney.com via Dina on Pinterest

 

Marilyn Monroe is having a pop culture moment, and with good reason - August 5 marks the 50th anniversary of her death. Marilyn was renowned for many things - her girlish charm and vulnerability, her iconic style and of course, her legendary sex appeal. 

Surprisingly, Marilyn could also drop some wisdom and her quotes on being a woman, happiness, love and sex are some of my favorites. For example, she once famously said, "What do I wear in bed? Why, Chanel No. 5, of course.” Cheeky, no? If the classic scent's not your style (I've tried to love it and just can't), here are a few alternate ideas on how to channel a little Monroe this month.

Andrew Hansford's new book Dressing Marilyn: How a Hollywood Icon Was Styled by William Travilla ($19.79 at Amazon) is a worthy read for any lover of fashion. The author takes a deep dive into the relationship between the starlet and designer William Travilla, with never-before-seen original sketches, patterns and costume test shots. Thought little known outside of the world of costume design, Travilla's designs are iconic, and you'll recognize them in an instant - think the notorious white dress seen in The Seven-Year Itch as well as the stunning pink gown in which Marilyn sang "Diamonds Are a A Girl's Best Friend" in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes.

As an homage to Monroe, blow dry bar Drybar has introduced a new style- “The Old Fashioned” - available now through the month of August at locations nationwide ($40). While you're enjoying your blowout, grab a glass of bubbly (on them!) and get distracted by some of Marilyn’s classics from FOREVER MARILYN: THE BLU-RAY COLLECTION ($73.86 at Amazon) streaming throughout the salon.

Last, but not least, you can always treat your skin with one of Marilyn Monroe's favorite indulgences - Erno Laszlo. The luxe brand's Hollywood Collection ($125) is packaged in a beautiful lacquered box, and brings together a generous assortment of five iconic products, loved by not only Marilyn but Greta Garbo, Grace Kelly and others. The Velvet Night Cream is a particular favorite of mine, with a texture that lives up to its name.