Marilyn Monroe’s pink gown sells for $325,000 at auction
An iconic pink gown worn by Marilyn Monroe has sold for $325,000 at auction this week, far exceeding its estimated value. The long-sleeved dress, adorned with crystal tassels, was worn by Monroe for a Vogue photoshoot with photographer Bert Stern. It was made for Saks Fifth Avenue in New York by designer Emilio Pucci. The dress was sold as part of a set of Playboy items, including the first issue of the magazine featuring Monroe on the cover.
The auction also featured other Monroe memorabilia, such as a film-worn black evening gown from “The Seven Year Itch,” a swimsuit from “There’s No Business Like Show Business,” an umbrella from a 1949 photoshoot, and a framed black bra worn by Monroe. Items belonging to Playboy founder Hugh Hefner were also up for sale, including his iconic burgundy smoking jacket and silk pajamas. The total value of the auction reached $4.8 million, with the most expensive piece of Monroe memorabilia ever sold being the dress she wore to sing “Happy Birthday, Mr. President” to John F. Kennedy in 1962.
Monroe, born Norma Jeane Mortenson, was a popular actress in the 1950s and early 60s, known for her roles in films like “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes” and “There’s No Business Like Show Business.” Her personal life often made headlines, including her short-lived marriage to Joe DiMaggio and her tragic death in 1962 at the age of 36. Monroe’s legacy as an actress and model endures to this day, with her iconic moments often recreated or auctioned off for top dollar.
One surprising fact about Monroe’s memorabilia is that the dress she wore for the “Happy Birthday” performance was later worn by Kim Kardashian to the Met Gala in 2021. The decision to loan the dress to Kardashian caused backlash from fans who believed she damaged the garment, but Ripley’s Believe It or Not confirmed that the dress was returned in the same condition it started in. This incident showcases the enduring fascination with Monroe’s legacy and the value placed on items from her estate.
Overall, the recent auction of Marilyn Monroe memorabilia highlights the continued interest in her iconic style and career. With items fetching top dollar on the open market, Monroe’s legacy as a Hollywood icon remains strong even decades after her untimely death. From the pink gown sold for $325,000 to the record-breaking sale of the “Happy Birthday” dress, Monroe’s impact on popular culture continues to be celebrated and commemorated through auctions and exhibitions of her personal belongings.
