Photo: Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images
Hollywood has had its share of blonde bombshells, but there's no denying that actress Marilyn Monroe is one of the most influential sex symbols of all time. Whether she was flaunting a hot pink gown and dripping in jewels or showing off those never-ending curves with a scandalous white dress, Monroe never failed to wear an alluring ensemble that had all eyes on her. And even though it's been over 40 years since she passed away at age 36 in 1962, Monroe continues to inspire women today in getting glam. However, one challenge in taking cue from Monroe is avoiding the campy, costumed look that's nowhere near fab. Luckily, there are some tricks to looking like a screen siren because let's face it, some like it hot!
Show Off Red-Hot Lips
The blonde bombshell may have worn Chanel No. 5 in bed, but she rarely stepped out without rocking a red-hot pout. It's been said that Monroe wore five different shades of red lipstick to create a perfect crimson hue, but fortunately, it's become a lot easier to wear the right shade of ruby that highlights your natural features. According to celebrity stylist Katharine Polk, any glamour girl can benefit from wearing red lipstick. "Red lips have made a huge comeback," says Polk. "I have personally been wearing my favorite rouge lipstick every day. Instead of trying to duplicate Marilyn's look, take bits and pieces to try and channel her. Let her look inspire you." To discover your signature red lipstick, consider experimenting with different colors, like cherry or coral, until you find one that suits your personality. Keep your skin's natural undertones in mind when wearing bold red lipstick.
Embrace Curves with White Halter Tops
It's been more than half a century since Monroe stepped out on the streets of New York City wearing a seductive white halter dress for the 1955 flick, "The Seven Year Itch," yet the unforgettable "subway blowing" scene continues to captivate audiences. You cannot channel one of Hollywood's greatest icons without wearing a variation of the pleated outfit, but sadly, it's difficult to find a Monroe-inspired gown that isn't just for Halloween. Celebrity fashion commentator Colin T. McDonald believes there are certain ways to perfect this beloved look. "Different shades of white and ivory are key colors and we will be seeing women all over wearing this trend," McDonald explains. "A quick suggestion would be to stick with the halter-style dress to give off the Marilyn appeal, but opt for a longer length to give the look a modern twist." Not only is a white dress perfect for springtime, but it also reveals your skin's golden glow.
Reveal Sexy Stilettos
Strut like a Hollywood starlet by taking note of Monroe: Get out the high heels! In a recent article by the UK's "Daily Mail," Italian urologist Dr. Maria Cerruto discovered that wearing high-heeled shoes gives the pelvis an easy workout, which could explain why gentlemen preferred blondes like Monroe. Best of all, mastering the art of wearing sexy stilettos gives you that sought after "wiggle walk," which accentuates your natural curves. "(Marilyn) Monroe was most associated with the stiletto heels produced by Salvatore Ferragamo," says Clare Sauro, curator of Drexel University's Historic Costume Collection. "Legend has it she would have one heel slightly shorter to exaggerate her famous walk -- and slim heels are the perfect complement to the 'modern Marilyn' look." Sauro states that Monroe preferred light colors that emphasized her pale skin and hair, including white and ivory. Whether you wear high heels religiously or not, score a pair in a trademark color that draws attention to your smooth, toned legs.
Adorn Yourself with Minimal Accessories
Diamonds are a girl's best friend, but when Monroe wasn't playing jewel-hungry Lorelei Lee, she revealed her figure instead. Today, ladies seeking to channel Monroe in their wardrobes should keep accessories at bay. Look at nearly any candid photo of Monroe and you'll notice that Hollywood's golden girl didn't show off sparkly gems as you might expect. "The best way to accessorize a Marilyn-inspired dress is with a bombshell body," comments jewelry designer Kat Kushner. "She used very few accessories to adorn her dresses, which were designed to flatter and emphasize her curvaceous figure." However, this doesn't mean you should stash your jewels away. Kushner recommends wearing simple pieces, such as a delicate chain, pearl earrings, or a glittery brooch. In short, embrace your curves, a woman's true best friend.
