The birthday of Norma Jeane Mortenson-Baker, famously known as Marilyn Monroe, was on June 1, 1926. Brilliant throughout her entire career, she is forever remembered by cinema fans for her blonde curls, playful smile, and stunning figure. The actress also gained fame for the incredible attire of her characters, which was meticulously chosen for her by the finest costume designers. To draw attention to her, designers of that era, notably William Travilla, focused on sheath dresses, high-quality fabrics, and exquisite colors that continue to make an unforgettable impression.
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. This dress, designed by William Travilla, was created specifically for the film. Marilyn Monroe allowed the airflow from a subway grate to playfully lift her skirt in an elegant motion. The scene was marked by two kisses between the actress and her on-screen partner Tom Ewell, and the dress was perceived as a reflection of the character’s personality: naive yet mischievous. The public filming of the scene required 14 takes, attracting the attention of curious passersby and photographers gathered to witness the skirt’s movement. Shots marred by public exclamations had to be reshot at a private studio in Hollywood.
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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 commences one of cinema’s most renowned musical numbers: “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend.” In a striking pink strapless gown with evening gloves, she captivates the audience and other characters with her dazzling appearance. The satin pink dress with a voluminous bow at the waist was also designed by William Travilla, who collaborated with the actress on numerous films. At the last minute, the dress replaced the original costume: lingerie adorned with precious stones. Following the release of scandalous nude photographs of Marilyn Monroe, director Howard Hawks opted for a less revealing outfit.
Gold Dress from “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes” (1953)
Marilyn Monroe in the film “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes” (1953)
In the film “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 ensemble: the celebrated gold dress with a stunning décolletage. This remarkable gown, appearing for only a few moments in the film, remains a cinematic gem. And for good reason – William Travilla fashioned the dress directly on Marilyn Monroe’s body, allowing him to perfectly drape her curves.
Fuchsia Dress in “How to Marry a Millionaire” (1953)
Marilyn Monroe in the film “How to Marry a Millionaire” (1953)
In this movie, Marilyn Monroe appears in a luxurious, one-shoulder satin dress in a fuchsia hue. Another creation by William Travilla, it features a bodice combined with an asymmetrical shoulder strap across the neckline. A testament to the fashion of its time, “How to Marry a Millionaire” is filled with iconic outfits worn by Marilyn Monroe: a red, diamond-encrusted pin-up style swimsuit; a white robe; and, of course, a white pencil dress with a fur stole. Charles LeMaire, responsible for the costume design for the picture, was honored with an Oscar in 1954.
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 enchant 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 events from his life, he certainly does not 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, simply dressed 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