GUESS has always been inspired by a myriad of icons, and high on that list is the princess of retro Hollywood glamour herself, Marilyn Monroe. Back in 1981, when GUESS was first established, the first pair of iconic jeans that the brand dropped were called the “3-zip Marilyn”, a design directly inspired by Marilyn Monroe’s style.
45 years on, GUESS is putting even more respect on Marilyn’s name with its new Milan Design Week exhibition: “Beyond the Icon” - Marilyn Monroe - A Centennial Tribute by GUESS. The exhibition delves into Marilyn’s evolution and impact through the work of three legendary photographers: Bernard of Hollywood, Sam Shaw, and Milton H. Greene.
As one of GUESS’s original muses, Marilyn Monroe has inspired GUESS designers for decades, and her image has been interpreted in GUESS’s campaigns, embodied by the likes of Drew Barrymore and Eva Herzigová. While this is, of course, largely due to Marilyn’s style, which was instantly iconic, GUESS’s appreciation of Marilyn Monroe is also an ode to her personality.
Throughout her life, Marilyn Monroe cultivated an image of beauty and femininity, but she also represented strength, commitment, kindness, and perseverance. Her iconic status wasn’t just born from looks - she’s a symbol of so much more, and an inspiration to so many.
As Paul Marciano, Co-founder and Chief Creative Officer, GUESS said of the exhibition, “Marilyn Monroe is not just an icon for GUESS, she is part of our DNA. From our very first ‘Marilyn’ jean to our campaigns over the years, her image has continuously shaped our vision of femininity. This exhibition is both a tribute and a celebration of that enduring connection.”
That’s why it made sense for GUESS to celebrate Marilyn with this Milan Design Week exhibition, and also drop a Marilyn Monroe Capsule Collection as an ode to her and how much impact she’s had on the brand since day one. The capsule drop, which is presented at the exhibition, translates Marilyn’s style into contemporary pieces, channeling her famous aesthetic.
The “Beyond the Icon” - Marilyn Monroe - A Centennial Tribute by GUESS exhibition is open from April 21st to June 24th, found at MUDEC, Milan. If you’re a fan of fashion, photography, or obviously Marilyn, make sure to hit it up. Find out more about GUESS’s exhibition, spotlighting the icon Marilyn Monroe, here.
Featured images via Guess©
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