The Hollywood icon has returned to the silver screen, but this time through a portrayal by Ana De Armas in the Netflix film, Blonde. Monroe’s on-screen costumes are almost as iconic as her off-screen ones; it’s no surprise that the film’s crucial element in telling her story derives from her wardrobe. Award-winning costume designer Jennifer Johnson from I, Tonya, re-created Monroe’s iconic outfits with the help of pattern maker Jose Bello at Western Costume—and the outfits did not disappoint.
Below, we roundup our favourite looks from the film.
The “Diamonds Are A Girl’s Best Friend” Dress
The fuschia satin gown Monroe wears while singing “Diamonds Are A Girl’s Best Friend” in the film Gentlemen Prefers Blondes needs no introduction. It’s a stunning glamorous number that stood out on her. Complemented with opera gloves and diamonds, the whole outfit exuded a sexy allure.
The Seven Year Itch Dress
It’s no surprise that this dress has seen many re-creations up and down Hollywood Boulevard as well as Halloween parties the world over. This halter, sleeveless cocktail dress with plunging neckline was a stunning look seen in the film The Seven Year Itch. It garnered a lot of attention in the scene where air from the subway gate Monroe was standing over blew the dress up, revealing her bare legs and creating an iconic still for decades to come.
The Niagara Dress
This pink, cut-out dress was impossible to ignore. Topped with a subtle bow and washed in hot pink, the dress had a contemporary yet minimalist feel. Costume designers Charles Le Maire and Dorothy Jeakins created the original version to capture the allure of the 1953 film’s anti-heroine.
The Polka Dot Dress
This polka dot whimsical dress was iconic during Monroe’s time with Arthur Miller. It’s a demure, light sundress that showed her feminine and innocent side.
July 4th Swimsuit
This iconic strapless swimsuit was first seen on Monroe on Independence Day in 1953 for a day of festivities. Giving nautical vibes, the bandeau swimsuit is a classic piece.
The There’s No Business Like Show Business Dress
The unachievable, extreme, and hyper-sexualised feminine look Monroe pulls off shone bright with this number. Monroe wore a white satin strapless gown with matching gloves, satin pumps, and a fur stole to the 1954 premiere of There’s No Business Like Show Business and it made quite the statement.
All images courtesy of Netflix & IMDB
