Marilyn Monroe Hair Styles: Iconic Looks That Transcended Time
Marilyn Monroe, the legendary actress and symbol of the 1950s, was not only known for her captivating performances but also for her iconic hair styles. Her signature blonde curls and red carpet updos have inspired generations of women and continue to influence modern hairstyles. Let's delve into some of Marilyn's most memorable hair styles and their impact on fashion history.
Blonde Bombshell: Marilyn's Signature Color
Marilyn Monroe's most recognizable feature was undoubtedly her platinum blonde hair. This color, achieved with the help of her hairstylist, Sydney Guilaroff, became her trademark and contributed to her nickname, "Blonde Bombshell." The shade, often referred to as "Marilyn Monroe blonde," is a cool, icy platinum that flatters her fair skin and blue eyes.
The Classic Curl
Marilyn's most iconic hairstyle is undoubtedly her loose, cascading curls. This style, popularized in the 1950s, was achieved using hot rollers and a lot of hairspray. The curls were often swept to one side, accentuating her face and drawing attention to her striking features. This style can be seen in many of her films, including "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes" and "The Seven Year Itch."
Updos for the Red Carpet
Marilyn Monroe was a regular on the red carpet, and she always brought her A-game when it came to her hair. One of her most famous updos is the French twist, which she wore to the 1951 Academy Awards. This style, characterized by a twist of hair at the nape of the neck, was simple yet elegant and perfectly suited her face. She also often wore chignons, or buns, which highlighted her long, graceful neck.
Bangs and Bobs
While Marilyn is best known for her long, curly hair, she also experimented with shorter styles. In the 1960s, she wore a pixie cut with bangs, a style that was both modern and youthful. This cut, which she wore in her final film, "Something's Got to Give," was a departure from her usual look but showed her willingness to take fashion risks.
Marilyn's Influence on Modern Hairstyles
Marilyn Monroe's hair styles continue to influence modern fashion. Her signature blonde color is still popular today, and her loose curls and elegant updos can be seen on red carpets and in fashion magazines. Her pixie cut, too, has been reinterpreted by modern celebrities, demonstrating her enduring influence on style.
Recreating Marilyn's Iconic Looks
If you're looking to recreate Marilyn Monroe's iconic hair styles, there are a few key steps to follow. First, achieve her signature blonde color, either naturally or with the help of a stylist. Then, use hot rollers to create loose curls. For updos, practice the French twist or chignon, using hairspray to keep your style in place. Finally, don't forget to accessorize with a scarf or a pair of sunglasses to complete your Marilyn look.
| Film | Hair Style |
|---|---|
| Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (1953) | Loose curls with a side part |
| The Seven Year Itch (1955) | Loose curls with a deep side part |
| Some Like It Hot (1959) | Loose waves with a center part |
| Let's Make Love (1960) | Chignon with a deep side part |
| Something's Got to Give (1962) | Pixie cut with bangs |
