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Classic Marilyn Monroe Hair Style

Marilyn Monroe is still a classic icon after all these years

I’m sure I don’t have to tell you who Marilyn Monroe was and why she is considered an icon of the silver screen.  Her style became the basis of what we regard as glamour and stardom today.  In 2008 we are seeing a repeat of her 1950’s mid-length, roller set, hair style.  This hair style is much more elegant and glamorous than straighter hair styles and not so surprisingly . . . modern looking once again! (The circle of life shows forth once again)

“Marilyn Monroe Classic Hair Style”Marilyn Monroe, actually wore what is called a graduated bob hair style, that was anywhere between jaw level and shoulder length.  The 2008 version has longer layers with fringe in the front and shorter layers in the back.  Although Marilyn Monroe’s hair was roller set, it can be worn smooth, even straightened, or wavy and tousled.  One of the reasons we are seeing a repeat of this hair style I believe, is that medium length hair styles can be quicker and easier to care for than long hair styles and more versatile than most short hair styles.
  

Katherine Heigl wears Marilyn’s Hairstyle

Recently, I showed a client this picture of Katherine Heigl, wearing a Marilyn Monroe hair style and convinced her to go for it.  It was a major move but I knew she was ready for something new. (I just love this job when I can give a client a new, exhilarating hair style change!!)  She was tired of her long hair style and truth be told, it began to age her. She had just worn it long for too many years. She loved the new cut . . . and so did her hubby!  She was a medium ash blonde with highlights and we lightened that up more which really made for a total makeover. 

The Marilyn Monroe hair style is also a great style for someone who wants to create more movement and body in their hair.  This medium length hair style looks great on every face shape; it really brings out the eyes because it frames the face.

As for color, it has been said that Marilyn Monroe and her hair stylist tried 9 different shades of blonde before settling on her famous platinum blonde.  As a hair stylist, I definitely DO NOT recommend trying 9 different shades of any hair color.  If you are curious about trying anything drastic, there are some online hair style programs (like Barb’s customized virtual hair style makeover) that allow you to try different hair colors and hair styles on your image.  It’s much safer for your hair and a lot of fun too!

You can style your hair like Marilyn Monroe’s too, just start with a side part and curl your hair with a ¾ to 1 inch size curling iron or hot rollers.  I like to use Matrix Sleek Look Iron Smoother, when curling hair with a curling iron or when using any heat on the hair.  It protects the hair from the heat, while providing frizz control.  It also offers extra holding power for the curls and added shine.

Matrix Sleek Look Iron Smoother

Spray on dry hair taking small sections; roll the bangs or fringe area under and downward slightly.  Roll the sides in small sections away from the face and downward, and then roll the back section under.  Let your hair cool down, before lightly finger combing out your curls.  Finish with a light misting of medium hold hair spray; you don’t want to weight it down with too much.  This curled hair style is appropriate for both formal and casual looks.  I think this hair style is fabulous and love to see the return of Marilyn Monroe’s legendary hair style!

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