Fashion Influence: The Iconic Dresses
The White Dress
The white dress was also known as the "Subway Dress." Designed by William Travilla, (designed most of Monroe's dresses) was a draped halter strapped dress with a pleated skirt. The picture became very famous as the dress was blown up in the breeze, showing her panties. This dress and picture had an unbelievable impact on pop culture as it was shown in magazines all over the world. The dress was auctioned for 5.6 million dollars in 2011.
The JFK Dress
In 1962, Monroe wore this dress when she sang "Happy Birthday" to President John F. Kennedy at Madison Square Garden. She wanted the dress to be "historic." She wanted her new, slender physique to be shown off in this clingy dress that looked nude when the light caught it. The dress had 2,500 rhinestones sewn on. The dress was auctioned for a few dollars short of two million in 1999.
The Gold Dress
As Monroe wore this dress in a series of portraits, the dress became very recognizable. The dress is knife-pleated with a plunging neckline, and halter top. William Travilla designed this dress that Monroe also wore in "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes."