One of the most iconic dresses ever worn by screen legend Marilyn Monroe — the crystal-studded gown that she donned to breathlessly sing “Happy Birthday” to President John F. Kennedy in 1962 — will go on the auction block in Los Angeles in November.
The flesh-colored gown, covered with more than 2,500 hand-stitched crystals, was created by Jean Louis, and the dress was so tight it literally had to be sewn onto the actress before she walked on stage at Madison Square Garden.
“Marilyn Monroe singing ‘Happy Birthday Mr. President’ is certainly one of the most famous impromptu performances in American history,” said Darren Julien, president/CEO of Julien’s Auctions, which will sell the dress in November. “That rendition has lived on for decades as one of the most remarkable events in her career and certainly one of the most storied tales in popular culture history — a moment in time squarely at the center of the 1960s, Hollywood and Camelot.
“We are incredibly privileged to have the opportunity to offer this amazing dress to collectors, fans and contemporary art enthusiasts around the world,” he said.
Prior to being sold, the dress will be on display in an exhibition in New Jersey and another in Ireland before being returned to Los Angeles.
“We have had remarkable opportunities to offer unique objects related to Marilyn Monroe in the past,” said Martin Nolan, Julien’s Auctions executive director. “To be part of the continued interest and excitement around this legend is always thrilling. This dress, this story, this momentous occasion represents a defining moment in history. The auction will remind the world why Marilyn Monroe remains an icon.”
The dress will be on public display in Los Angeles from Nov. 18-19, with the auction of the dress and other Monroe property being held over three days from Nov. 17-19.
