How to Dress Like: Marilyn Monroe

Welcome to our new series, How to Dress Like! We will be taking classic vintage fashion icons and showing you exactly how to dress like your favorite starlet, pin-up, or crooner from decades past. First, we’ll be starting with the blonde bombshell herself, Marilyn Monroe.

Marilyn Monroe was an actress, model, and singer, most notably famous during the 1940’s and 50’s. She’s known for her curly, golden blond locks, her curvaceous figure not of the norm during that time, and paving the way for future pin-up icons and beyond. Read further to find out how to channel some Norma Jeane into your vintage wardrobe.

High-Waisted Shorts and Crop Tops

thisbluebird how to dress like Marilyn Monroe

This outfit combo was Marilyn’s go-to for comfort and fashion. This look is perfect for long summer days outside, whether at a picnic, a festival, or even at the beach. High-waisted shorts paired with a bandeau top will have you feeling cool and classic, as if you just walked off the beach in the 1950’s.

Deep V-Neck Bodycon Dress

thisbluebird how to dress like Marilyn Monroe

Marilyn was a huge fan of showing off her curves, and for good reason; her body was one that was idolized by women across the country and even the world – still to this day! Find a dress that hugs you in all the right places and has a deep v-neck to create symmetry and geometric styling; the v-neck helps pull the waist in, making your hips look more voluptuous than ever before.

Corsets

thisbluebird how to dress like Marilyn Monroe

No pin-up wardrobe would be complete without a corset outfit. Whether styled as a one-piece swimsuit, worn under your dress to accentuate curves, or as a stand-alone dress or top if you’re feeling daring, adding a corset to your style will definitely make you feel more confident, sexy, and like you and Marilyn are style soul-sisters.

Stilettos and Statement Jewelry

thisbluebird how to dress like Marilyn Monroe

Marilyn Monroe was all about accessories; the shinier, the better (she even sang a song about it). When looking for accessories to complete your look a la Monroe, make sure to look for a lot of gems, diamonds, and drama. Big cuffs and chandelier earrings are perfect for this look. Interestingly enough, Marilyn usually went with a bare neck or a smaller necklace piece, most likely to balance out the eccentricity of her other accessories and outfit choices.

Now that you have your uniform requirements to complete your Marilyn Monroe look, take your next step by checking out our vintage offers. We think that here is a great place to start.

Who are your favorite vintage fashion icons? Are you a diamonds girl, or do you prefer au natural? Let us know in the comments!