Accessories for Marilyn Monroe: A Timeless Icon's StyleHere
Marilyn Monroe, an iconic figure in the world of fashion and film, captivated audiences with her undeniable beauty, charisma, and unique sense of style. From her glamorous gowns to her signature accessories, everything about Marilyn Monroe exuded elegance and sophistication. In this article, we will explore the various accessories that made Marilyn Monroe a fashion icon and continue to inspire fashion enthusiasts even today.
1. Jewelry:
Marilyn Monroe’s jewelry collection was as dazzling as her on-screen presence. She often adorned herself with statement pieces that added a touch of glamour to her outfits. One of her notable jewelry choices was the teardrop cluster crystal necklace and earrings set, which exemplified her feminine allure. The jewelry she wore reflected her personal style and added the perfect finishing touch to her ensemble.
Marilyn Monroe’s Iconic Diamond Necklace: Shining Bright in “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend”
One of the most iconic moments in her career is her performance of the musical number “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend” from the film “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes” (1953). In this unforgettable scene, Marilyn wore a stunning diamond necklace that became synonymous with both her on-screen persona and the enduring appeal of diamonds themselves.
The Necklace Design:
The diamond necklace worn by Marilyn Monroe during “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend” was a showstopper in every sense. Featuring a statement pendant suspended from a delicate chain, the necklace showcased a captivating arrangement of sparkling diamonds set in platinum. The pendant was adorned with a central stone, surrounded by smaller diamonds that cascaded downward in a mesmerizing display of brilliance. The exquisite craftsmanship and timeless design of the necklace perfectly complemented Marilyn’s radiant beauty.
Role in the Film:
In the film “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes,” Marilyn Monroe portrayed the character Lorelei Lee, a glamorous showgirl with a penchant for diamonds. The musical number “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend” showcased Marilyn’s captivating presence as she performed a playful yet seductive routine, accompanied by backup dancers and a lavish set. The diamond necklace she wore in this scene was a symbol of her character’s desire for opulence and luxury.
Cultural Impact:
Marilyn Monroe’s performance of “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend” and her captivating diamond necklace left an indelible mark on popular culture. The song itself became an anthem celebrating the allure and desirability of diamonds, while Marilyn’s portrayal of the character added a touch of glamour and sophistication. The image of Marilyn, dressed in a pink satin gown and adorned with the diamond necklace, has become an iconic representation of elegance and femininity.
Legacy and Influence:
Marilyn Monroe’s diamond necklace from “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend” continues to inspire and captivate audiences to this day. The scene and the jewelry have been referenced and recreated in various forms of media, paying homage to Marilyn’s enduring legacy. From fashion editorials to modern-day performances, the image of Marilyn wearing the diamond necklace remains a timeless symbol of glamour and aspirational beauty.
Ownership and Replicas:
The charm and allure of Marilyn Monroe’s iconic diamond necklace, famously worn during her performance of “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend,” holds a cherished place in Hollywood’s historical fabric. Once privately owned, this treasured piece of history found itself in the spotlight when it was auctioned by Julien’s Auctions in 2016. While the original necklace may have changed hands, its timeless design continues to inspire countless replicas and reinterpretations, giving admirers the opportunity to embrace Marilyn’s captivating style.
Marilyn Works Her Magic on the Moon of Baroda
The Moon of Baroda, a 24.04-carat pear-shaped, fancy yellow diamond, has a fascinating history that spans continents and centuries. Believed to have been discovered in India’s Golconda mine, this exquisite gem made its way into the hands of the Maharajas of Baroda before finding its place in Hollywood lore.
Legend has it that the diamond originated in the Golconda mine, renowned for producing some of the world’s most prized gems. With a weight of 25.95 carats at the time of its discovery, the diamond captured the attention of the royal family of Gaekwad, known as the Maharajas of Baroda. Thus, it earned the name “Moon of Baroda.”
The journey of the Moon of Baroda led it to Europe, where it found itself in the possession of Empress Marie Thérèse of Austria, the only female monarch of the Habsburg dynasty. She held the diamond for a period before passing it on. Interestingly enough, Marie Thérèse was the mother of Marie Antoinette, the ill-fated Queen of France known for her affinity for diamonds. Some attribute her downfall, including losing her head, to her extravagant taste in jewels.
Returning to its native India in 1860, the Moon of Baroda was set into a necklace. Although little is known about its history during the following 66 years, records indicate that Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad sold it to an unknown buyer in the 1920s.
The Moon of Baroda is a truly incredible gem with an even more incredible backstory that spans from the fabled mines of India to European courts to “American royalty.”
Fast forward to 1944 when the diamond resurfaced in the possession of Samuel H. Deutsch, owner of a diamond cutting company in Cleveland, Ohio. Nine years later, in 1953, Meyer Rosenbaum, president of Meyer Jewelry Company in Detroit, Michigan, acquired the Moon of Baroda.
It was Meyer’s brilliant idea that forever linked the Moon of Baroda with one of Hollywood’s most iconic figures – Marilyn Monroe. Rosenbaum decided to showcase the diamond by having Monroe wear it on a simple leather cord during various shoots for the movie “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes.” Intriguingly, he even allowed her to borrow it for her promotional tour. Monroe was captivated by its beauty, expressing her admiration and even signing a photograph with the words, “To Meyer, Thanks for the chance to wear The Moon of Baroda!”
The photo of Monroe wearing the diamond became famous in its own right. A copy of the shot, accompanied by Monroe’s handwritten message, will be offered alongside the stone at an upcoming auction in Hong Kong.
However, the Moon of Baroda carries an intriguing legend of its own – a curse that strikes whenever it travels overseas. Empress Marie Thérèse’s possession of the diamond ended with her death, and some say that Monroe’s career downturn followed her wearing of the gem in 1953.
Whether or not one believes in curses, there is no denying the allure of the Moon of Baroda. From its illustrious origins in India to its encounters with European royalty and its association with Hollywood glamour, this diamond continues to fascinate and enchant all those who come into contact with its timeless beauty.
DIAMONDS WERE HER BEST FRIEND, BUT MARILYN MONROE ALSO SPARKLED IN THESE RHINESTONE EARRINGS
The Story Behind Marilyn Monroe’s Rhinestone Pearl Chandelier Earrings in ‘The Seven Year Itch’“
Marilyn Monroe adorned herself with rhinestone pearl chandelier earrings in the classic film “The Seven Year Itch” (1955). One of the film’s most iconic scenes features Monroe standing over a subway grate with her white dress fluttering upwards. While this image is well-known, her dazzling earrings also contributed to the elegance of her character.
The earrings weren’t made from real diamonds or pearls, but they were meticulously crafted to reflect her character’s glamour in the film. These earrings have since become emblematic of Monroe’s personal style and the captivating allure of Hollywood’s golden age. The intricate details of the earrings, whether they were constructed using rhinestones or imitation pearls, were an integral part of the film’s costume and wardrobe design.
Presently, these earrings continue to be a source of inspiration due to their timeless design and enduring appeal. Replicas of these earrings are available on various online platforms like Etsy and Amazon, enabling fans to infuse a bit of Marilyn’s timeless elegance into their own style12.
On September 15, 1954 Marilyn Monroe stood on top of a subway grate in New York City and made cinematic history. The scene from the Seven Year Itch, went on to become one of the most iconic moments ever captured. Marilyn Monroe’s white “subway” dress sold for more than $5.6 million in a Beverly Hills, California auction. In the above video, Monroe is wearing these iconic earrings. GEM: CZ Diamonds Earrings: Solid .925 Silver with brilliant Rhodium plating Shell Pearl
A pair of clip-on rhinestone earrings owned by Marilyn Monroe.
Each earring is composed of a single full-cut prong-set rhinestone and five strands of cascading prong-set baguette cut rhinestones with simple clip backs.
Monroe wore these earrings to the premiere of The Rose Tattoo (Paramount Pictures, 1955) and Actor’s Studio benefit dinner which she attended with Marlon Brando. Also believed to have been worn to the opening of The Middle of the Night on Broadway in 1956. The play was produced by Joshua Logan who also directed Monroe in Bus Stop (20th Century, 1956). The link below contains video of Monroe wearing the earrings.
“Sparkling Elegance: The Iconic Accessories of Marilyn Monroe in ‘Some Like It Hot'”
Billy Wilder’s classic comedy film, “Some Like It Hot” (1959), is known not just for its iconic performances by Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis, and Jack Lemmon, but also for its distinctive style. Monroe’s character, Sugar Kane, a singer and ukulele player in an all-girl band, was characterized by her glamorous outfits and accessories that added a touch of elegance and sophistication to her on-screen presence.
Among these accessories, two stand out – a radiant rhinestone bracelet and a pair of dazzling earrings. The bracelet, a significant accessory in Sugar’s ensemble, caught the light, creating a dazzling effect that perfectly complemented Monroe’s vivacious performance. Its design, in line with the late 1950s fashion trends, emphasized elegance and glamour. The sparkling appearance was achieved through the use of popular rhinestones, adding to the character’s desirable yet somewhat naive portrayal.
On the other hand, the earrings Monroe wore were designed by Joseff of Hollywood, a renowned jewelry designer who created pieces for many Hollywood films during the 1940s and 1950s. Known for their unique designs and high-quality craftsmanship, these earrings matched her character’s glamorous personality perfectly. They even made an appearance on a 1959 LIFE Magazine cover featuring Monroe, further cementing their status as iconic pieces of Hollywood history.
Today, both the sparkling bracelet and earrings continue to captivate fans of Marilyn Monroe and vintage Hollywood glamour. Replicas of these accessories, like the Marilyn Monroe Tennis Bracelet 925 Silver Some Like It Hot Vintage Mint/Box COA and the earrings, are available for purchase online. These replicas allow fans to own a piece of film history, keeping the spirit of Monroe’s iconic style alive.
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One of Hollywood’s most enduring icons, Marilyn Monroe, is remembered not only for her captivating screen presence but also for her enchanting voice. Among her many memorable performances, one that stands out is her rendition of the song “I Wanna Be Loved By You” in the 1959 classic comedy film, “Some Like It Hot.”
“I Wanna Be Loved By You” was originally written by Herbert Stothart, Bert Kalmar, and Harry Ruby and was first performed by Helen Kane and Dan Healy1. However, it was Monroe’s 1959 performance in “Some Like It Hot” that truly immortalized the song.
In the film, Monroe’s character, Sugar Kane, a ukulele player and singer in an all-girl band, performed this song with such charisma and charm that it became one of the movie’s most iconic scenes. Monroe’s rendition of the song was not just a musical performance; it was a complete characterization of Sugar Kane – desirable, a little naive, yet absolutely captivating.
The song was released as a single in 1959, with the B-side being “I’m Thru With Love”2. The vinyl release was widely popular, further solidifying Monroe’s status as a multi-talented star.
Despite being over six decades old, Monroe’s rendition of “I Wanna Be Loved By You” continues to be celebrated today. It has accumulated millions of views on various social media platforms like YouTube and Facebook, proving that Monroe’s charm and talent continue to captivate audiences worldwide34.
Recently, actress Ana de Armas was seen singing “I Wanna Be Loved By You” in the biopic “Blonde” (2022), drawing comparisons to Monroe’s original performance in “Some Like It Hot” (1959)5. While it is a testament to Monroe’s enduring influence, it also highlights the timeless appeal of the song.
In conclusion, Marilyn Monroe’s performance of “I Wanna Be Loved By You” in “Some Like It Hot” is more than just a song. It is a testament to her talent and charisma, a definitive moment in Hollywood history, and an enduring symbol of vintage Hollywood glamour.
How to Marry a Millionaire” (1953): Accessories
1. Cat-Eye Glasses: DID MONROE’S CATS-EYES WIN HER A MILLIONAIRE?
Marilyn Monroe’s character in “How to Marry a Millionaire,” Pola Debevoise, is remembered not just for her charming wit but also her iconic cat-eye glasses. The film, released in 1953, showcases Monroe’s character as a visually impaired woman who is reluctant to wear glasses, believing that “men aren’t attentive to girls who wear glasses”
Despite her reservations, there are several scenes where she dons a pair of oversized and exaggerated cat-eye glasses. These glasses have a distinct charm with their black frame and white detailing on the upper corners2. This style of glasses became widely popular after Monroe’s portrayal of Pola and continues to be a fashion statement.
These glasses were more than just a prop or an accessory; they added depth to her character. They were a bold fashion statement that added a touch of sophistication and intelligence to her character’s glamour3.
It’s worth noting that some sources claim that the movie was partially based on Monroe herself because she was rumored to be near-sighted but was rarely seen wearing glasses in public4. Whether this is true or not, one thing is certain: Monroe’s portrayal of Pola and her iconic cat-eye glasses left an indelible mark on the film and fashion industry.
Marilyn Monroe’s Iconic Earrings in “How to Marry a Millionaire” (1953)
In the film “How to Marry a Millionaire,” Marilyn Monroe sported a pair of faux diamond and pearl earrings, which despite missing one pearl and one diamond, were worn with great panache. Crafted in the diamante style, these earrings added a touch of glamour to many scenes in the movie.
The film, whose tagline was “The Most Glamorous Entertainment Of Your Lifetime in CinemaScope. You See It Without Glasses!” boasted an impressive cast of Hollywood’s finest actresses at the time – Lauren Bacall, Betty Grable, and Marilyn Monroe. Tired of their lackluster lives and disappointing men, the trio, playing New York models, craft a plan to find and marry millionaire bachelors. Their journey, however, proves that distinguishing the genuinely wealthy from the imposters is not as easy as it seems.
Despite sharing the screen with such talents as Grable and Bacall, Monroe managed to shine brightly. She brought her signature blend of glamour and dizziness to the film, complementing Bacall’s sophistication and Grable’s vivaciousness. “How to Marry a Millionaire” is considered one of Monroe’s standout performances, alongside other classics like “Seven Year Itch,” “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes,” and “Some Like it Hot.”
Marilyn Monroe’s White Mink Fur Stole in “How to Marry a Millionaire” (1953)
Marilyn Monroe, the legendary Hollywood icon, is remembered not only for her captivating performances but also for her impeccable style. One of the most memorable pieces she wore was the white mink fur stole in the 1953 film “How to Marry a Millionaire.”
The white mink fur stole, designed by renowned costume designer William Travilla, epitomized the glamour and luxury of the 1950s1. This exquisite accessory added an extra layer of sophistication to Monroe’s character, Pola Debevoise, a visually-impaired model who chooses not to wear glasses.
The stole served as more than just a prop. It was a symbol of Debevoise’s aspiration for an opulent lifestyle and her desire to marry into wealth2. The white mink fur stole, in particular, represented the affluence and social status that her character yearned for.
Monroe’s personal fashion choices mirrored her on-screen persona. She was often seen wearing fur accessories in her daily life, showcasing her love for elegance and glamour3. In fact, she wore a fox muff to the premiere of “How to Marry a Millionaire,” further highlighting her penchant for luxurious attire.
“How to Marry a Millionaire,” directed by Jean Negulesco and produced by Nunnally Johnson, featured a stellar cast, including Betty Grable and Lauren Bacall45. Yet, amidst this talented ensemble, Monroe’s performance and her iconic white mink fur stole stood out, making a lasting impression on audiences and fashion enthusiasts alike.
In conclusion, the white mink fur stole worn by Marilyn Monroe in “How to Marry a Millionaire” is more than just a piece of costume. It’s an emblem of the character’s ambition, a reflection of the fashion trends of the era, and a testament to Monroe’s enduring influence on style. Today, this fur stole remains an iconic piece of Hollywood memorabilia, symbolizing the timeless allure of Monroe’s fashion legacy.
Marilyn Monroe’s Iconic Pearl Necklace Graces Sydney
The timeless elegance of Hollywood star Marilyn Monroe is on display in Sydney, Australia, where her iconic pearl necklace is showcased. This precious piece, a gift from her second husband Joe DiMaggio during their 1954 honeymoon in Japan, comprises 44 lustrous Akoya cultured pearls1.
Despite the dissolution of their marriage, this string of pearls remained a treasured possession for Monroe. She was seen wearing it even during her divorce proceedings, a testament to its sentimental value.
The ‘choker’ style necklace features Japanese Akoya pearls, known for their classic round shape and radiant lustre, secured with an ornate clasp. These pearls are saltwater cultured pearls derived from the Akoya oyster1.
This masterpiece was created by Mikimoto, a luxury Japanese jeweller. The brand’s founder, Kokichi Mikimoto, made history in 1893 as the first person to successfully culture a semi-spherical pearl1. Today, Mikimoto leads as the premier cultured pearl company.
Kennedy, an Australian jewellery retailer, offers the Mikimoto range exclusively within Australia, with pearl and diamond pieces priced between $700 and $56,0001.
Monroe’s necklace had a journey of its own post her demise. It was gifted to a friend and eventually repurchased by Mikimoto. Now, it graces the launch of the Mikimoto brand at the luxury boutique Kennedy1.
Teneille Oakley, Kennedy Merchandise General Manager, expressed her excitement about their exclusive partnership with Mikimoto, citing the uniqueness and luxury that the brand represents.
Monroe isn’t the only celebrity who cherished Mikimoto pearls. Designer Marc Jacobs has expressed his admiration for the brand, and stars like Hilary Duff, Zooey Deschanel, and Camila Cabello have sported Mikimoto pearls at the Oscars1.