What Marilyn Monroe Can Teach Us About Building an Iconic Brand
It’s no secret that I’ve always been obsessed with Marilyn Monroe… (so much so that my business is called Monroe Creative, and my daughter's middle name is Monroe!) There’s just something about her, her presence, her timelessness and the way she completely changed the game for women.
Recently, I went to visit “Marilyn: The Exhibition” at London Bridge, and it completely relit my admiration for her. Seeing her iconic outfits, personal notes, mementos and behind-the-scenes moments reminded me just how powerful her brand truly was, and still is. It made me wonder: what makes Marilyn Monroe such an enduring icon? And, what can we learn from her when it comes to building a brand that stands the test of time?
I believe the answer is simple: she made people feel something. And that, at its core, is what makes a brand truly iconic.
If you want to build a brand that people remember, connect with and fall in love with, there are some beautiful lessons to be learned from MM. Here’s how her legacy holds the secrets to branding success….
1. Emotion is the heart of an iconic brand
Marilyn Monroe wasn’t just an actress, she created real emotion. Whether she was playing the playful blonde or showing her more vulnerable side, she connected with her audience on a really deep level.
Branding lesson:
Your brand should do the same. The most successful brands don’t just sell products or services; they sell feelings - think confidence, luxury, aspiration, trust. Ask yourself: What emotion do I want my brand to spark in people?
2. The power of storytelling in branding
Marilyn Monroe’s story is legendary, her transformation from Norma Jeane to a global icon is the stuff of Hollywood dreams. Her carefully (by her) crafted narrative made her unforgettable.
Branding lesson:
People connect with stories, not just visuals. A strong brand identity isn’t just about a beautiful logo, it’s about a compelling narrative. Your audience wants to know why you do what you do, what inspires you and what makes your brand different.
3. Own your USP
Marilyn Monroe leaned into what made her unique, her breathy voice, her signature beauty mark, her glamorous and playful presence. She didn’t try to fit into Hollywood’s mould, she created her own. (She was also one of the first women to set up her own production company, a move that was unprecedented in the 1950s and one that allowed her to gain the creative control and freedom in her career that she’d wanted for so long.)
Branding lesson:
The most successful brands don’t try to be like everyone else. They embrace what makes them different and use it to their advantage. Define what sets your brand apart and own it.
4. Timeless over trendy
Even in 2025, Marilyn Monroe is everywhere, from fashion collections to home décor to social media tributes. Her brand has remained timeless because it wasn’t built on fleeting trends but on a strong identity that continues to resonate.
Branding lesson:
Trends come and go, but truly powerful brands are built to last. Focus on a branding strategy that feels timeless, elegant and uniquely you, rather than chasing short-lived fads.
5. The balance of glamour and authenticity
Marilyn Monroe was glamorous, but she also showed moments of vulnerability and depth. This duality made people fall in love with her, not just as a star, but as a person.
Branding lesson:
People are drawn to brands that feel both aspirational and real. Whether you run a luxury business or a personal brand, ensure your brand has personality, warmth and relatability.
Related post:
How to Create an Unforgettable Experience with your Luxury Brand - Going Above and Beyond with Little Touches
6. Your signature personal branding elements
Marilyn Monroe had instantly recognisable brand elements, her platinum blonde hair, red lips, iconic white dress and breathy voice. These are the kind of details that made her unforgettable.
Branding lesson:
Your brand should have its own signature elements, colours, fonts, messaging and photography style. Consistency creates recognition, and recognition builds trust.
Final thoughts: make your brand unforgettable
Marilyn Monroe didn’t just exist, she left a huge impact. That’s what every brand should aim for: to be more than just a business, but a feeling, an experience, a name people remember.
Your brand has the power to be iconic, but only if you build it with intention, emotion and authenticity. So, what’s your brand’s signature? What makes it truly unforgettable?
Want to create a brand that captivates and connects?
I specialise in helping female founders build timeless, high-end brands that attract dream clients with ease. If you’re ready to elevate your brand, let’s chat!
