Beauty Icon Bio: Marilyn Monroe

Name: Norma Jeane Mortenson (later Marilyn Monroe)
Time Period: 1926–1962
Region: United States (Golden Age of Hollywood)

Appearance
Marilyn Monroe was known for her glamorous and instantly recognizable look.

She had platinum blonde hair, arched brows, and a signature beauty mark on her cheek.
Her features included full lips, wide-set eyes, and a curvy hourglass figure.
She often posed with her chin tilted upward and a soft smile, enhancing her image of innocence and allure.
Early in her career, she transitioned from brunette to blonde to match Hollywood’s beauty ideals.

Her appearance blended softness and sensuality, becoming a symbol of 1950s femininity.

Style
Monroe’s fashion choices helped define mid-century glamour.

She wore figure-hugging dresses, halter tops, and satin gowns that emphasized her curves.
Her signature look included red lipstick, winged eyeliner, and soft curls.
She popularized strapless silhouettes, plunging necklines, and the iconic white halter dress from The Seven Year Itch.
Offscreen, she favored simple sweaters, capri pants, and ballet flats for a more relaxed elegance.

Her style balanced elegance with bold allure, leaving a lasting imprint on fashion for decades.

Reputation
Marilyn Monroe was admired for her charisma, vulnerability, and screen presence.

She starred in over 20 films, including Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, Some Like It Hot, and The Misfits.
Though often cast as a “dumb blonde,” she studied acting seriously and earned critical acclaim.
She founded her own production company to gain creative control—rare for women at the time.
Her personal life, including high-profile marriages and struggles with mental health, was widely publicized.

Her reputation combined stardom with complexity, making her both adored and misunderstood.

Cultural Impact
Monroe remains one of the most enduring icons of beauty, fame, and femininity.

She helped redefine Hollywood glamour and inspired generations of artists, designers, and performers.
Her image appears in pop art, fashion campaigns, and feminist discussions.
She challenged norms around sexuality, self-expression, and celebrity identity.
Her legacy continues through tributes, biographies, and cultural references worldwide.

Her cultural impact transformed beauty into a blend of vulnerability, power, and timeless appeal.

Scouts can use these trusted sources to learn more or expand their notes:

Britannica – Comprehensive biography and overview of Monroe’s life, career, and legacy.
MemoryCherish – Discusses her legacy, symbolism, and impact on celebrity culture.
W Magazine – Visual timeline of Monroe’s evolving beauty and style.
Wikipedia – Detailed timeline, filmography, and cultural contributions.

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Tia Kennard