This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.
This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.
Marilyn Monroe's Iconic 'Happy Birthday' Dress Just Sold For $4.8 Million
Marilyn Monroe performing "Happy Birthday" in the dress. (LIFE)
The dress that Marilyn Monroe wore as she performed her version of "Happy Birthday" to President John F. Kennedy is one of the most iconic in existence, and was the centerpiece of a scandalous rumor. It just sold at auction in Los Angeles for $4.81 million, according to the AP.
The dress was on the block at Julien's Auctions last night, and the big winner was Ripley's Believe It or Not, who will likely put it on display in the future.
The dress on a custom mannequin with Monroe’s exact body measurements. (Julien's Auctions)
Monroe wore the then-$12,000 dress to perform at a Democratic Party fundraiser being held at (the old) Madison Square Garden on May 19, 1962. It doubled as a celebration for JFK's birthday, with 15,000 in attendance. Following the performance, JFK came to the stage and announced, "I can now retire from politics after having had 'Happy Birthday' sung to me in such a sweet, wholesome way." The performance (and Jackie Kennedy's absence) spurred rumors that the two were having an affair.
The dress—made of silk, sequins and rhinestone—was designed by Jean Louis, and Monroe famously had to be sewn into it because it was so tight; the actress was reportedly unable to wear anything underneath for the same reason.
Sponsored message
Monroe died three months after the event (there are plenty of conspiracy theories about that), and JFK was assassinated the following year.
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
