Style guide · June 2025
How to get Marilyn Monroe's iconic hair
On 1st June, we celebrate what would have been Marilyn Monroe's 100th birthday. Decades on, her platinum waves remain the definitive Hollywood glamour look.
Decades after becoming a Hollywood icon, Marilyn's signature beauty look remains as influential as ever. Her unforgettable platinum blonde curls defined old Hollywood glamour and continues to inspire women even now.
If you've ever dreamed of recreating Marilyn's iconic hairstyle, there are several ways to achieve the look, whether you're ready for a full hair transformation or simply want to channel her for a special occasion.
The key elements
Marilyn's hair was much more than just blonde. Her look combined a bright platinum shade, a soft layered cut, and perfectly styled curls that framed her face beautifully. This gave us a hairstyle which felt glamorous and feminine.
To recreate the look, you'll need to focus on three key areas: colour, cut, and styling.
Go platinum blonde
One of Marilyn's most recognisable features was her bright blonde hair — her natural colour was far darker, but the striking platinum shade became her signature.
If you're considering a colour change, speak to a stylist about a platinum that complements your skin tone; going this light often requires multiple appointments, so patience is key.
Not ready to commit? Blonde highlights or temporary colour options can create a softer version of the look.
Choose a soft, face-framing cut
Marilyn's hairstyle wasn't overly long. Her classic look sat around chin to shoulder length and featured soft layers that added volume and movement.
Ask your stylist for a layered bob or shoulder length cut with plenty of shape around the face with nose length bangs. The goal is to create fullness and softness rather than blunt, sharp lines. Volume at the crown and layers around the cheeks help to capture the vintage look.
Master the vintage waves
The styling is what truly brings the Marilyn Monroe look to life.
Start by applying a volumising mousse to damp hair before blow drying with a round brush. Once dry, use heated rollers or a curling iron to create structured curls. Rather than leaving them tight, gently brush through the curls once they have cooled to create those famous waves.
A side parting instantly adds old Hollywood glamour, while a light spray of hairspray helps keep everything in place without making the hair feel stiff.
For extra authenticity, focus on creating volume around the crown and soft curls that sweep away from the face.
The easier way to get the look
Meet Marilyn 💕
Inspired by one of the most famous hairstyles of all time, our Marilyn wig captures the essence of classic Hollywood beauty. A flattering platinum shade, soft vintage-inspired waves, and a natural-looking lace front — effortless glamour, zero appointments.
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