Marilyn Monroe’s preference for the color red is often highlighted by her iconic use of red lipstick, which became one of her signature beauty trademarks. She frequently wore red in her clothing choices, too, both on and off the screen. For example, in her famous 1953 movie Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, she wore a striking red gown during her performance of the song “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend,” which became one of her most memorable moments.
Red, as a color, is often associated with passion, confidence, and sensuality—traits that fit well with Monroe’s public persona. The color also helped her stand out in Hollywood, where she cultivated a glamorous image that captivated the public and media alike.
In interviews, Monroe expressed her fondness for colors that were bold and attention-grabbing. She also had a particular fondness for the hues of red in her personal wardrobe, including red dresses, shoes, and accessories. Beyond red, she was known to wear other bright and vibrant colors, like pinks and blues, but red was undoubtedly one of her most beloved choices.
Although red was her most favored color, Monroe’s style evolved throughout her career. In the early stages of her career, she wore more muted tones, but as she became a global superstar, she began to embrace more dramatic, eye-catching colors that matched her larger-than-life image.