When it comes to Hollywood’s golden age, few stars shine as brightly as Marilyn Monroe. Known for her platinum-blonde hair and captivating on-screen presence, Monroe became a symbol of 1950s glamour and seduction. And no role exemplifies this better than her unforgettable turn as Lorelei Lee in ‘Gentlemen Prefer Blondes.’ So, let’s take a look behind the scenes at the wardrobe and hair tests that shaped Monroe’s iconic look in this classic film.
Crafting Lorelei Lee’s Look: The Wardrobe Tests
Stepping into the role of Lorelei Lee required Monroe to transform into a glamorous gold-digging showgirl. The film’s costume department, led by the legendary designer William Travilla, played a crucial role in this transformation. His designs helped communicate Lorelei’s character – a woman who was both aware of her attractiveness and unapologetically used it to her advantage.
During the wardrobe tests, Monroe tried on a dazzling array of outfits, from sequin-drenched gowns to elegant fur wraps and provocative cocktail dresses. Each piece was carefully selected and tailored to highlight her hourglass figure, creating an image of irresistible allure.
The standout piece from the film, and perhaps Monroe’s entire career, was the jaw-dropping gold lamé gown designed for a cut musical number, “Four French Dances”. With its plunging halter neckline and skin-tight fit, the dress was considered too risqué and the scene was eventually cut from the film. However, the gown made its appearance in promotional photos, solidifying Monroe’s image as a sex symbol.
Taming The Golden Locks: The Hair Tests
Monroe’s trademark platinum blonde hair was another significant aspect of her portrayal of Lorelei Lee. To achieve the right look, the hair department conducted a series of tests to determine the best style for Monroe’s character. Hairstylists experimented with different hairstyles – from loose waves to tight curls, from high up-dos to cascading down styles – each one enhancing Monroe’s diamond-bright persona in a different way.
Ultimately, they chose a classic, yet glamorous look: medium-length blonde curls, perfectly framing her face. The look accentuated Monroe’s radiant beauty and complemented the exuberant, flirtatious nature of her character.
The Magic of ‘Gentlemen Prefer Blondes’
Monroe’s meticulous wardrobe and hair tests were more than just a means to an end. They were an integral part of the creative process, shaping not only Monroe’s physical transformation but also her understanding of the character. Through these tests, Monroe was able to embody the spirit of Lorelei Lee, crafting an unforgettable performance that would become a cornerstone of her career.
The combination of Monroe’s portrayal, Travilla’s costume design, and the hair department’s styling created the timeless image of Lorelei Lee that we all recognize today. Despite being shot in black and white, the test footage has a luminosity that transcends color. You can see the essence of Monroe’s character – the charm, the allure, the irrepressible spirit – that made Lorelei Lee a cinematic icon.
Looking back, ‘Gentlemen Prefer Blondes’ was a defining moment in Marilyn Monroe’s career. The wardrobe and hair tests played an instrumental role in shaping her performance and the film’s overall aesthetic. They allowed Monroe to fully inhabit her character and helped create a look that remains iconic to this day.
