Original Icon: Marilyn Monroe

(NB: Post moved from my old blog, originally written 24/09/08)

I know, I know, it's such a cop-out starting with someone who is so well known as an icon. But it makes sense to start with someone (or several someones) who most people will be familiar with and Marilyn Monroe is that chosen someone.

All images from Google & Flickr

Marilyn Monroe (a.k.a Norma Jeane) was a 1950s actress, singer, model & all round icon. I won't go into to much depth about her history or career, because there are many other websites which can tell you that. Instead, I'll focus on her style.

Known primarily for her fabulously curvaceous figure (the rumour is that she was a size 16, personally, I reckon she was closer to a 12... not that it matters, dress sizes mean squat, there is no such thing as a "standard size") and her bleached blonde hair, Monroe was a sex symbol of the era. Though her figure would have suited Dior's "New Look" trend perfectly, she seems to dress more along the lines of what suited her (but of course, most styles are influenced by fashion to some extent...)

Marilyn is very clothes conscious. She takes her time, where as I just throw mine on. She buys her clothes, but has some made. She knows where every tuck should go. Irrespective of fashion, she wears clothes she likes to wear and they look darling on her! - Jane Russell [via Miss Vintage]

Miss Vintage (which is a lovely site may I add) does a wonderful in-depth focus on Marilyn's style for those who are interested in finding out a little bit more.

I admit to having only seen Some Like It Hot so far (appalling I know, I really must start a film night of some sort...) but I thought it was quite amusing. I personally love Marilyn's style simply because she was beautiful and knew what made her look even more amazing! Today's swarms of emaciated looking models, "icons" etc. are just no competition.

Of all the photos I found, these were my favourites:

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So, since this was the first "icon" post, I would love to know what you think. Too many or too few photos? Too much or not enough text? And finally, who do you think should be featured next?