The actress continues to influence luminous makeup, glamorous hairstyles and the sophisticated vintage aesthetic that returned to the radar in 2026
EdiCase Editorial
On June 1, 2026, Marilyn Monroe would turn 100 years old. Owner of one of the most iconic images in pop culture, the actress remains a reference when it comes to classic beauty. Her voluminous blonde hair, striking red mouth and bright makeup continue to inspire trends, campaigns and beauty productions to this day.
The aesthetic immortalized by the actress has gained new interpretations in recent years, driven by the return of vintage glamor and the so-called “Old Hollywood Glam“, a movement that brings back polished hairstyles, sophisticated makeup and luminous finishes. According to Chloé Gaya, makeup artist and artistic director of Jacques Janine, Marilyn’s look remains current precisely because it values timeless elements. “She continues to inspire because she combines sophistication and femininity in a very current way”, she explains.
For Maurício Pina, hairstylist and artistic director of Jacques Janine, the main features of the beauty immortalized by the actress are still present, but adapted to contemporary trends. “Today, the difference lies in lighter and more natural finishes, but the main elements continue to be present in trends”, he states.
From this classic base, some specific traits of Marilyn’s beauty continue as a direct reference in contemporary makeup and hair and help to understand how to adapt the visual for today. See the main elements of this legacy in detail!
1. Red lipstick remains a symbol of elegance
Few makeup items are as associated with the actress as red lips. Timeless, the look continues to be among the most requested in salons and on social media, especially in more hydrating and luminous versions. Currently, satin lipsticks, pigmented glosses and lip pencils help to create a sophisticated and modern effect. “The secret to the red inspired by Marilyn is in preparing the mouth and choosing tones that enhance the skin’s undertone, ensuring an elegant and comfortable finish”, comments makeup artist Chloé Gaya.
Product suggestions: BT Vynil Sara, by Bruna Tavares; Be Peach Cherry, by BMÉS; Ballet Matte Liquid Lipstick, by Dailus; Matte Red Carpet Lipstick, by Ruby Kisses.
2. Delicate eyeliner enhances the look
Another element classic of the actress’s look is the soft eyeliner, responsible for lengthening the look without weighing down the makeup. Unlike the extremely graphic features, the proposal inspired by Marilyn Monroe focuses on thinner and smoky lines, accompanied by voluminous eyelashes and shadows in neutral tones. “Today, classic eyeliner appears lighter, bringing definition to the eyes without losing the naturalness of the makeup”, explains Chloé Gaya.
Product suggestions: Snow White Eye Liner Pen, from Fenzza; Crunchie Pop Slim Dear May Eyeliner, by Osang Cosmetic.
3. Highlighted blonde remains on trend
Light hair helped transform Marilyn Monroe into one of the greatest beauty symbols of the 20th century. Currently, the blonde inspired by the actress appears in more natural and multidimensional versions, such as champagne, butter blonde and the so-called “expensive blonde”, a trend marked by the sophisticated shine and healthy appearance of the hair.
Nourishing masks, acidifyingtoning products and finishing oils are important allies to maintain a bright and elegant look. “Today’s blonde seeks luminosity and movement, preserving the naturalness of the hair and avoiding an artificial appearance”, highlights the hairstylist Maurício Pina.
Product suggestions: Clarissimo Blonde Dye, by Maxton; Novex Anti-Damage Acidifier; Charming Shine Spray, by Cless Cosméticos.
4. Voluminous waves are back on the beauty radar
Classic structured waves remain one of the main references of Hollywood glamour. In 2026, the hairstyle reappears with more lightness and movement, adapted to contemporary aesthetics. To achieve the effect, the tip is to use wide brushes or electric curlers, creating broad, polished waves with plenty of movement.
The finishing can be done by gently brushing the strands after finishing, ensuring the glamorous and sophisticated look characteristic of the actress. “The waves inspired by Marilyn have gained more natural versions, but continue to bring instant sophistication to any look. production”, says Maurício Pina.
Product suggestions: Beachwave Wave Styler, from Kiss New York; Elite Pro Ceramic Brush, from ProArt.
Marilyn Monroe’s beauty as a timeless reference
Marilyn Monroe continues to show that some elements of beauty cross generations and remain relevant even after a century. Today, its classic aesthetic reappears updated, connecting vintage glamor and contemporary trends in productions that continue to win over new generations.
References from this universe can be seen in makeup and hairstyles used by names like Sabrina Carpenter, Sydney Sweeney and Margot Robbie, who often focus on polished waves, sophisticated glow and striking lips inspired by classic Hollywood glamour.
By Caroline Amorim
