Marilyn Monroe, an eternal icon of beauty and sensuality, continues to captivate the world with her magnetic charm, undeniable talent, and tragic life.

In a world filled with fleeting trends and passing fads, there are certain individuals whose beauty transcends time. Marilyn Monroe, an epitome of grace and allure, remains an eternal icon of iconic beauty. With her mesmerizing presence, enchanting smile, and an aura that captured the hearts of millions, she continues to inspire and captivate us, even decades after her untimely departure.

Marilyn Monroe, the embodiment of timeless elegance, possessed a unique magnetism that set her apart from her contemporaries. Her flawless complexion, luscious blonde locks, and seductive curves became the blueprint for glamour and femininity. From the moment she stepped onto the screen, Marilyn exuded an undeniable confidence, effortlessly drawing the gaze of all who beheld her.

Beyond her physical appearance, Marilyn’s beauty emanated from within. Her radiant spirit, infectious laughter, and joie de vivre illuminated every room she entered. With a combination of vulnerability and strength, she was able to connect with audiences on a profound level, leaving an indelible mark on their hearts.

Marilyn possessed a rare talent that shone brightly on the silver screen. With films like “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes,” “Some Like It Hot,” and “The Seven Year Itch,” she showcased her comedic timing, raw vulnerability, and undeniable charisma. Her performances garnered critical acclaim and solidified her status as one of Hollywood’s most iconic actresses.

In this blog post, we will delve into the captivating essence of Marilyn Monroe’s iconic beauty. We will explore the secrets behind her timeless charm, the impact she had on redefining beauty standards, and how her legacy continues to influence the perception of beauty in today’s society.

Born Norma Jeane Mortenson on June 1, 1926, in Los Angeles, California, the woman who would become Marilyn Monroe faced numerous hurdles and hardships throughout her life. From a tumultuous childhood to a career plagued by personal struggles, she left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry and became an enduring cultural icon. often described as “half-child, half-woman

Marilyn’s early life was marked by adversity, but her determination to break into the entertainment industry led to her discovery. Her transformation from Norma Jeane to Marilyn Monroe is a captivating tale of ambition and perseverance.

Fascinating Facts About Marilyn Monroe’s Beauty Routine

Exploring the captivating makeup of Marilyn Monroe, we unravel the simple yet intricate secrets behind her elegant look. Unlike other tutorials that overlook the details, this comprehensive guide reveals the specific steps needed to achieve her timeless allure. But first, let me admit my unwavering adoration for Marilyn. It’s safe to say that my obsession has led me to gather a wealth of sources filled with makeup intricacies. While makeup artist Alan Whitey Snyder is often credited with creating Marilyn’s signature style, the iconic actress herself held a few undisclosed secrets. Get ready to embark on a journey fueled by thorough research and secret explorations of Marilyn’s makeup application.

Marilyn Monroe Makeup

In this snapshot of Monroe’s makeup box, on the right-hand side, there’s a box of Chinese Ginger Candy. These were commonly used in the past to calm upset stomachs or alleviate motion sickness. On the left-hand side, you can spot Monroe’s cherished moisturizer, the Erno Laszlo Active Phelityl Intensive Cream. This ultra-hydrating cream carries a potent floral fragrance and takes a bit of time to fully absorb. Therefore, you’ll need to allow it to seep into your skin without engaging in other activities. It seemingly matches Monroe’s rumored high maintenance nature.

 

1.Foundation Tips

When it comes to foundation, it’s important to find a matte one that matches your skin tone. This will help even out your complexion and hide any blemishes or redness. Marilyn Monroe, who had dry skin, had a clever trick up her sleeve. She would layer thin alternating coats of Vaseline and foundation for a radiant and moisturized finish. To enhance her glow, she would also highlight specific areas. Remember, if you have dry skin like Marilyn, take that into consideration when choosing your products.

For the finishing touch, don’t forget to lightly dust a matching powder over your foundation.

Here are the products Marilyn Monroe used (but again, adjust accordingly if you have dry skin):

Marilyn Monroe’s Personal Erno Laszlo Beauty Products

Introducing the remarkable collection from the estate of Marilyn Monroe. This exclusive assemblage features a range of exquisite treasures, including a single container of Erno Laszlo cream, a container of Erno Laszlo face powder, a container of Erno Laszlo ‘blush’ cream, and a coveted bottle of Erno Laszlo fluid. Discover the allure of these timeless beauty essentials that once graced the glamorous routine of Marilyn Monroe herself.

Erno Laszlo Powder Duo-Phase

Elizabeth Arden Pat-A-Creme

Elizabeth Arden PAT-A-CREME

Erno Laszlo Foundation

Erno Laszlo Foundation You can still buy this at  ErnoLaszlo.com

In the above photo, you can see the jar and bottles of Erno Laszlo makeup placed on the table in front of Marilyn. It’s safe to assume that Marilyn was quite fond of Erno Laszlo’s beauty products considering the substantial number she had at the time of her passing.

Erno Laszlo Duo-pHase Loose Powder in Translucent light- this is still available

ERNO LASZLO
Active pHelityl Cream Marilyn used this as a face protector as well as a mosisturizer
Apparently Marilyn washed her face with Shu Uemera cleansing oil and then would splash her face 15 times with cold water to seal the pores.

In this photo captured by the Los Angeles Police Department during their investigation into Marilyn’s death, take note of the jar of Erno Laszlo makeup resting on the floor next to Marilyn’s bed.

2. Contouring:

Contouring is a popular makeup technique that involves applying product to specific areas on your face for a more sculpted look. When contouring, you can reference the numbered areas shown in the picture (although not necessarily in the numbered order). 

How to Contour Marilyn monroe

Marilyn Monroe Contouring Steps

Contouring for the nose:

Marilyn Monroe had a distinct nose shape, which appeared wide when she smiled. The tip lacked definition, having straight lines from the bridge to the tip. As a result, her nose had a rectangular appearance with minimal angles and contours.

To achieve a similar contour, begin by narrowing the bridge, starting wider near the eyes and gradually tapering toward the bulbous part of the nose. Use a dark shade along the sides of the bridge to further minimize its width by creating a triangular shape.

Apply a highlighter along the bridge, stopping at the bulbous part (which will be contoured separately). Additionally, add highlighter to the nostrils on the sides, balancing the previously applied dark shading.

Now comes the crucial part of contouring the nose tip, recreating Marilyn’s signature look. The objective is to create a small, rounded nose with an upward-pointed tip, unlike the relatively large, square nose that matches the bridge. When contouring this area, focus on achieving a circular shape with an upward direction.

Refer to the labeled circles in the image. The red circle indicates where the dark shading should be applied, while the blue circle and white coloring indicate the areas for highlighting. For a more detailed approach, consult the picture below this one. However, the overall concept remains the same: create a rounded shape for the nose tip.

Nose Contouring

To achieve a desirable contour for your nose, follow these steps: start by applying a contouring shade above the nostrils and around the tip, forming two curved triangles as shown in the picture. Extend the shade above the bulb to create a circular shape. Next, apply highlighter in the center to elevate the circle and create the illusion of a slender but rounded nose. 

 Detailed contoured of the tip of the nose

3. Highlighting

In the world of cosmetics, Marilyn Monroe cleverly utilized layers of Vaseline to accentuate specific features. However, in today’s beauty landscape, there are numerous professional highlighting makeup alternatives that render the use of Vaseline obsolete. For that desired dewy appearance, I highly recommend opting for a cream highlighter rather than a powder. Elizabeth Arden’s 8-hour Day cream stands as a fantastic substitute for Vaseline. 
 

Highlight

 How to highlight like Marilyn Monroe

Marilyn Monroe’s Personal Elizabeth Arden Makeup

A small container of Elizabeth Arden “Pat-A-Crème” Fashion Makeup, an Elizabeth Arden eyebrow pencil in black, and an Elizabeth Arden mascara wand in dark brown.

Marilyn Monroe’s Personal Mascara Wand

A mascara wand in a metal case with gold-tone finish, manufactured by Helena Rubinstein, owned by Marilyn Monroe.

4. Eyebrows

Eyebrows, oh these lovely eyebrows, they are the highlight of this entire tutorial! Prepare to be amazed at how a delicately arched pair can instantly refresh your face, fooling everyone into thinking you had a restful sleep and leaving you with vibrant, cheerful eyes! Despite what you may have heard, Marilyn occasionally experimented with different eyebrow shapes, but predominantly favored elevating them with a pointed or rounded tip.

Eyebrow Shape 1: for this style, brush and pencil the eyebrow hairs in an upward motion, creating distinct and noticeable strokes.

Marilyn Monroe EyebrowsMarilyn Monroe Eyebrows How-to

Eyebrow Shape 2: Achieve a defined, pointy tip with thicker edges. The strokes are blended to create a uniform and voluminous eyebrow appearance.

Marilyn Monroe Eyebrows 

When it comes to Eyebrow Shape 3, there are no visible pencil strokes, only a seamless blend of color that results in a thinner and curvier eyebrow.

Marilyn Monroe Eyebrows 

Eyebrow Shape 4 is a simple yet elegant option with its pointed shape and two connected lines. It is the easiest choice among the different eyebrow shapes available.

Marilyn Monroe Eyebrows 4

Marilyn Monroe Eyebrows 

5. Eyes in Three Steps

Eye-shadows can be a great way to enhance your makeup look. For a natural and flattering effect, try combining brown and white or light tones. Apply a nude or light-colored shade to the lid, such as white, blue, or peach. To add definition, use a light white or bone-colored highlighter on the brow bone, and a brown shade in the crease to create a contour.

Eyeliner is typically a dark brown or black shade. One specific brand that she used was the Elizabeth Arden eye pencil in Dark Brown, which was part of the actual Marilyn Monroe collection! Instead of being styled in a cat-eye, it was often applied with a downward or straight outward slope, creating a “half-sleepy” eye or what is commonly referred to as a bedroom eye.

Elizabeth Arden Dark Brown Liner

Eyeliner how-to

Eyeliner Demo: Discover a nifty trick to create the illusion of lower lashline by applying the eyeliner on the bottom lashes. Check out this example!

Marilyn Monroe Eyeliner

Eyelashes: Marilyn decided to experiment with her eyelashes and cut them in half. She would then delicately position each half on the outer edge of her eye to achieve an alluring “sleepy eye” appearance. This clever trick made her eyes appear even longer as the extended lashes stretched beyond the outer corner.

Marilyn Monroe lashes

6. Lips

In this blog post, we will discuss Marilyn’s technique for achieving fuller lips. To begin, Marilyn emphasized the importance of using lipstick and a lip brush instead of a pencil for better control and smoother lines. She applied the lipstick slightly above her natural lip line, extending the corners of her lips to create the illusion of a bigger upper lip. It’s worth noting that the corners of the top lip were extended beyond the corners of the bottom lip for optimal results.

Additionally, Marilyn strategically used white eyeshadow or light shimmery colors on specific areas of her lips to attract light and enhance the overall effect. When it comes to color selection, she opted for a combination of different shades of red or pinks, with the darkest color applied on the outer edges of her lips, slightly past the original lip line. The other colors were then blended, with the lightest shade concentrated in the center to create an ombre effect.

Marilyn Monroe Lips How-To

Some more examples:

Do you remember that time when you read about Marilyn spending 2-3 hours doing her makeup, and you were left wondering why it took so darn long? Well, now you’ll understand the reason behind it all! Take a look at this fabulous collection of Marilyn Monroe makeup looks that I absolutely adore. There are some that are incredibly natural and perfect for everyday wear. And here’s a surprise – she didn’t only wear red!

Marilyn Monroe Makeup Looks 1

Marilyn Monroe Makeup Looks 1

Marilyn Monroe Makeup Looks 2
 

LAST LOOKS!

 
 

 Beyond the Looking Glass: Unmasking the Ethereal Essence of Marilyn’s Beauty

Her captivating smile, brimming with alluring warmth.
The mesmerizing gaze that unveiled the depths of her soul through her eyes.
Her flawless, porcelain complexion, akin to an artist’s flawless canvas.
The luxurious, cascading waves of her blonde hair, contributing to her otherworldly allure.

Beauty Products in Marilyn’s Routine

Here are the not-so-secret anymore tips and tricks behind Marilyn Monroe’s alluring Hollywood look.

Her top choice of products are:

– Vaseline
– Erno Laszlo Active pHelityl Cream
– Erno Laszlo Duo-Phase Face Powder
– Nivea
– Hormone Cream
– Anita of Denmark
– Anitas d’Foged Day Dew Cream Foundation
– Elizabeth Arden Pat-A-Cream Foundation
– Elizabeth Arden Show Stopper Pencil
– Elizabeth Arden White Lustre
– Elizabeth Arden Red Lipstick
– Max Factor Red Lipstick
– Helena Rubinstein Waterproof Mascara

Marilyn’s top choice of products. Vaseline, Elizabeth Arden Pat-A-Cream Foundation, Nivea, Erno Laszlo Active pHelityl Cream, Erno Laszlo Duo-Phase Face Powder, Anitas d’Foged Day Dew Cream Foundation, Elizabeth Arden Lipstick, Max Factor Lipstick, Helena Rubinstein Waterproof Mascara.

The classic red lipstick and its enduring appeal.
Her winged eyeliner, accentuating her captivating gaze.
The meticulous application of foundation for a flawless complexion.
The emphasis on long, dark lashes and false eyelashes.
The strategic use of blush and contouring to enhance her features.

Max Factor’s Pan-Stik foundation, which became an integral part of her iconic look.
The choice of red lipstick brands, including shades like Ruby Woo by MAC.
The use of eyeliner, mascara, and false lashes to achieve her signature gaze.

Personal Struggles and Enduring Popularity

Marilyn’s beauty was more than skin deep, interwoven with her complex life:

Personal struggles with mental health and relationships.
Her vulnerability, often hidden behind her beauty, making her relatable.
Enduring popularity as a testament to the power of her beauty to transcend life’s trials.

Conclusion

Marilyn Monroe’s iconic beauty is a symbol of timeless allure, an eternal mark of grace, and a muse for generations. Her image and style continue to inspire modern iconic beauty, beauty brands, and cultural references. In the world of beauty, Marilyn Monroe remains an enduring icon

 

Marilyn’s Visit to Elizabeth Arden: A Memorable New York City Encounter

In present-day New York City, Elizabeth Arden’s flagship salon, located at 691 Fifth Avenue, showcases a remarkable transformation that took place in 1930. A vibrant red door caught the attention, symbolizing the entrance to Elizabeth Arden’s world. The visionary behind this esteemed beauty brand, Florence Nightingale Graham, now known as Elizabeth Arden, has successfully captivated millions with her pioneering mindset. The legacy of The Elizabeth Arden Company and its resplendent salon lives on, embracing both tradition and modernity. Notably, Gucci created history in 1970 by setting a groundbreaking retail leasing record, as they gracefully agreed to pay an astounding $100 per square foot annually for the coveted corner store.

A recpet from the Elizabeth Arden Salon for black case and sts liner addressed to the account of Miss Marilyn Monroe at her 444 East 54th Street apartment in New York City. The receipt is dated October 3, 1959.

The book “Marilyn: The Ultimate Look at the Legend” by James Haspiel recounts an intriguing incident during Marilyn’s visit to Elizabeth Arden in New York City. It was a gentle mid-morning when fate led Marilyn towards the Gladstone. As she approached the entrance, she stumbled upon a teenager positioned outside, meticulously capturing every moment with his 8-mm camera. The hotel’s revolving door continued its graceful motion as Marilyn entered the scene, surprising the young filmmaker. In sheer delight, Marilyn twirled gracefully for his home-movie camera, adorning an exquisite black suit with a fur collar. Her lustrous shoulder-length hair caught the light, perfectly complementing her flawless makeup. The radiance was simply mesmerizing! (refer to the photos above)

Marilyn’s intended destination was Elizabeth Arden’s beauty salon on Fifth Avenue, a short distance away. Destiny led us to walk side by side, oblivious to the confounded teenager whose camera never lost its focus on us. It seemed he was destined to include me in his remarkable footage of Marilyn. Over the years, I incessantly sought him out, longing to witness the candid film he captured of Marilyn and me traversing the city on that eventful day. Alas, he remained elusive, reluctant to share his treasury of memories.

As Marilyn embarked on her famous walk, gracefully balancing herself on dauntingly high black stiletto heels, vehicles willingly halted, their drivers emerging with joyful exclamations of “Marilyn! Marilyn!” Finally reaching Fifth Avenue after an engaging three-block journey, we continued our march uptown towards the salon, located between 54th and 55th Streets. Suddenly, screeching tires and the sound of a crash filled the air. I glanced to the side, only to witness a taxi driver’s head protruding from the front passenger-side window. His cab had become wedged into the rear of a delivery truck. With an infectious grin on his face, he enthusiastically called out, “Marilyn!” Playfully, I tapped her shoulder, teasingly exclaiming, “See what you did!” Marilyn responded with an unmistakably Marilyn-like laughter, sweeping grandly into the salon, leaving a trail of enchantment in her wake.

Marilyn’s Leisurely Makeup and Performance Preparation

 

Marilyn relished the ritual of preparing herself, despite its tendency to make her perpetually tardy! Although her penchant for indulging in the makeup routine resulted in remarkable performances, it didn’t necessarily aid her punctuality.

When Time inquired about Marilyn’s prepping process, she candidly shared, “I prefer not to hasten this procedure… I take pleasure in dressing at a leisurely pace. It appears that nowadays, we’re always in a hurry.”

Marilyn Monroe Dark Glasses

During the peak of her career, Marilyn Monroe reigned as America’s most renowned figure. However, in order to venture out in public without any disturbances, she and her talented makeup artist devised a clever disguise. According to the makeup artist, Snyder, Marilyn’s transformation was remarkably simple. A turban accompanied by a vivid red bang and a pair of dark glasses instantly concealed her identity, allowing her to explore numerous places incognito. Nobody suspected that the mysterious lady was, in fact, Marilyn Monroe herself.

Marilyn Monroe’s Iconic Hairstyle: How to Get the Look

Marilyn Monroe’s hairstyle was an integral part of her iconic image as the ultimate bombshell. She was known for her platinum blonde locks, often styled in voluminous, sultry waves. To achieve Marilyn Monroe’s famous hairstyle, hot rollers were commonly used to create perfect curls. Many sources provide tips and ideas for recreating her look, including using styling products, curlers, or a curling iron. Marilyn Monroe’s hairstyles ranged from classic Hollywood waves and pin-up victory rolls to glamorous side-swept tighter curls.

here are some tips to help you recreate her glamorous look.

1. Prepare Your Hair

To start, it’s important to prepare your hair for styling. Begin by washing your hair with a volumizing shampoo and conditioner to add body and texture. Towel dry your hair gently, removing excess moisture without roughing up the strands.

2. Apply Hair Mousse

Next, apply a generous amount of hair mousse to the roots of your hair, focusing on the hairline where structure is key. This will provide lift and hold, creating the foundation for Marilyn’s signature style. Make sure to evenly distribute the mousse through your hair for optimal results.

3. Blow Dry for Volume

Using a round brush, blow dry your hair section by section, lifting the roots to create volume. Marilyn’s hairstyle was all about big, bouncy curls, so aim to add as much volume as possible during this step. For added lift, you can flip your head upside down while drying and use the brush to shape the hair.

4. Set with Hot Rollers or Curling Iron

Once your hair is completely dry, it’s time to create those iconic curls. Marilyn Monroe often used hot rollers or a curling iron to achieve her signature style. Take small sections of hair and wrap them around the rollers or curling iron, holding for a few seconds before releasing. Repeat this process until all of your hair is curled.

5. Let the Curls Cool

After curling your hair, allow the curls to cool completely. This step is crucial as it helps the curls set and hold their shape for longer. You can use this time to apply makeup or get dressed while you wait for the curls to cool.

6. Gently Brush Out the Curls

Once the curls have cooled, use a soft bristle brush or a wide-tooth comb to gently brush through the curls. This will create soft, loose waves, similar to Marilyn’s iconic hairstyle. Avoid brushing too vigorously as this can cause frizz and disrupt the shape of the curls.

7. Set with Hairspray

To ensure that your Marilyn Monroe-inspired hairstyle lasts all day, finish off with a generous mist of hairspray. Choose a hairspray with strong hold but still allows for movement, so your hair retains its bounce and natural look.

With these steps, you can achieve Marilyn Monroe’s timeless hairstyle and add a touch of old Hollywood glamour to your own look. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find the variations that suit you best. Embrace your inner bombshell and channel Marilyn’s iconic style with confidence.

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