For most people, Hollywood icon Marilyn Monroe is inseparable from her billowing white dress. It’s the first image that comes to mind at her mention. But while the iconic halter dress by renowned costume designer William Travilla remains unforgettable, Monroe sported many other looks. Now, a rare piece from her wardrobe is hitting the auction block a pair of classic blue jeans from the 1950s, believed to have been worn by the star herself. Julien’s Auctions is offering them with an estimated sale price of $30,000 to $50,000 this month.
Monroe’s charm, beauty, and grace are irreplaceable, but someone can at least own a piece of her legacy. The zip-fly jeans, originally from J.C. Penney, were worn in the 1954 film River of No Return. Featuring distressing on the front leg, the label inside reads “1-68-1-0435 Helen Thurston A-713,” referencing Monroe’s body double, Helen Thurston. These jeans were previously acquired by designer Tommy Hilfiger for $37,000 at Christie’s New York auction, The Personal Property of Marilyn Monroe.
An icon in his own right, Hilfiger boasts an extensive collection of celebrity memorabilia, including pieces worn by Monroe, which he has even gifted to pop star Britney Spears and supermodel Naomi Campbell, per Page Six. Interestingly, this third pair of Monroe’s jeans worn by both her and her double in the role of Kay Weston is now up for grabs at Julien’s Auctions’ Bold Luxury: The Limelight Edit, taking place on March 27 at The Peninsula Beverly Hills and online.
In the past, Monroe’s legendary crystal-studded dress worn for JFK’s birthday celebration at Madison Square Garden in 1962 fetched a staggering $4.8 million. Designed by Jean Louis, the gown was reportedly so tight it had to be sewn onto her. Decades later, Kim Kardashian made headlines by wearing it to the Met Gala.
Will a simple pair of jeans ever rival the world’s most expensive auctioned dress? Unlikely. But these jeans offer a glimpse into a more understated side of Monroe one that feels just as special to own.
