How to Use the 'Marilyn Monroe Effect' to Exude Confidence

The Marilyn Monroe Effect refers to the enchanting blend of confidence, sensuality, and timeless beauty that the legendary Hollywood actress Marilyn Monroe personified.

Born Norma Jeane Mortenson in 1926, Marilyn Monroe grew into an American cultural icon whose influence spans across decades.

Her striking appearance, characterized by platinum blonde hair, red lips, and an hourglass figure, was only part of her allure. Marilyn exuded a magnetic charisma and a flirtatious vulnerability that made her both revered and relatable. None of that is new information—so why is the Marilyn Monroe Effect suddenly a thing? As with most trends, social media is heavily involved.

Who Came Up With the Term 'The Marilyn Monroe Effect'?

Today, the love of Marilyn Monroe continues to transcend generations, capturing the hearts of Gen Z. They've re-popularized the Marilyn Monroe Effect through the lens of modern feminism and body positivity.

Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are flooded with young influencers recreating Monroe's iconic looks and adapting her style to modern fashion. Moreover, as advocates for body positivity, Gen Z embraces Monroe’s fuller figure as a symbol of natural beauty and self-acceptance.

However, the term "The Marilyn Monroe Effect" can't be attributed to a specific person. It evolved as a way to describe the lasting impact of Marilyn's persona on popular culture and individual self-expression. The term likely came into everyday use in the late 20th century as Marilyn's legend endured.

It was an attempt to categorize the enduring appeal and the inspiring aspects of her image, which seemed to empower people to embrace their femininity, sexuality, and self-confidence unabashedly.

What the Marilyn Monroe Effect Looks Like in Action

When a person channels their inner Marilyn Monroe, it is apparent in both their appearance and demeanor. They exude confidence, grace, and glamour, often with a touch of sensuality. Some of the characteristics include:

• Appearance: Often, this includes adopting a more glamorous style reminiscent of the 1950s – think red lips, winged eyeliner, and vintage dresses that emphasize your curves.
• Confidence: There's an unmistakable air of self-assurance. This doesn't mean being extroverted or brash but having a sense of self-worth and poise in your carriage and demeanor. It also isn't just about how you look but how you carry yourself—with your head held high and a belief in your worth.
• Sensuality and femininity: Marilyn Monroe oozed charisma and was unafraid of her sensuality. This is about embracing and owning your sexuality without being defined by it. Just like Marilyn, a person embracing this effect might display an unapologetic embrace of their sensuality and femininity.
• Vulnerability: Unlike her dominant image, Marilyn Monroe was also known for her vulnerability. Being honest about your imperfections and emotions is a key element. It makes you more relatable and genuine.

Does the 'Fake It Until You Make It' Mindset Really Help Boost My Confidence?

The “fake it till you make it” philosophy is a widely recognized approach that involves adopting a certain facade or attitude, even when it might not feel genuine initially, in the hope that with time it becomes part of your actual persona.

Research suggests that this method can be effective to an extent. Acting confidently can change how others perceive you, which in turn can affect how you perceive yourself. For instance, by maintaining eye contact, standing tall, and speaking with assertiveness, others may view you as confident.

A "Fake it until you make it" mindset can certainly help boost your confidence, but it should be used in tandem with other tools to ensure a lasting outcome. These include learning from self-help books, hiring a coach, and/or working with a therapist, which can ultimately help understand the underlying causes that are inhibiting confident behavior, Janae Kim, a licensed psychotherapist specializing in trauma and anxiety, says.

How Does Building Confidence Improve Your Mental Health?

Boosting your confidence has several mental health benefits, including:

• Reducing anxiety: Being confident means you're not constantly worried about judgment or failure, which can reduce anxiety.
• Improving relationships: Confidence makes you more likely to open up to others and form meaningful relationships. Being confident also helps in social situations, making it easier to meet new people.
• Achieving a sense of accomplishment: Confident people are more likely to set and achieve goals, which creates a sense of accomplishment and purpose.

Building confidence can improve your mental health by reducing feelings of self-doubt and anxiety. When you believe in yourself, you're more likely to tackle challenges, handle stress better, and have a positive outlook. Increased confidence can also lead to better relationships and a greater sense of happiness and well-being, says Elizabeth Campbell, PhD, a licensed psychologist.

Can the Marilyn Monroe Effect Backfire on You?

If taken to an extreme, trying to embody the Marilyn Monroe Effect can backfire. For instance, trying too hard to emulate someone else can cause you to lose touch with who you genuinely are.

Marilyn Monroe's image is also a product of the times and the Hollywood sheen. Trying to live up to such an image could cause you to set unrealistic standards of beauty and behavior for yourself.

Striving for an unattainable ideal could lead to issues like anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem when there is a failure to measure up to that ideal.

How to Improve Your Self-Confidence—Authentically

Here are some scenarios and tips for authentically boosting your self-confidence:

• Facing a job interview: Prepare by researching the company and role. Practice answering common questions. Dress in a way that makes you feel confident but is also appropriate for the position.
• Entering a crowded room: Before entering, take deep breaths to calm yourself. Remind yourself that you have a right to be there. Maintain good posture as you walk in; this simple physical adjustment can enhance your confidence.
• On a date: Be yourself. Share your genuine interests and listen actively. Wear something that makes you feel good but is also comfortable. 
• Public speaking: Know your material inside and out. Practice, but don't memorize your speech word for word. Practicing in front of a mirror or recording yourself can help. As you speak, engage with the audience by making eye contact. Focus on the message you are sharing rather than on yourself.
• Entering a social gathering: Have a few conversation topics ready. Focus on others by asking them about themselves. Remember, not everyone has to like you, and that's okay.
  

To improve your self-confidence authentically, focus on your strengths and accomplishments. We can actually grow in the areas of our greatest strengths rather than our weaknesses. So acknowledge your flaws without dwelling on them. Set realistic goals and celebrate your successes. Surround yourself with positive people who believe in you. And most importantly, be true to yourself, Campbell adds.

While the Marilyn Monroe Effect can inspire confidence and glamour, it is essential to adapt these qualities in a way that remains true to one's authentic self. Balance is key: take inspiration but weave it into the fabric of your unique personality and identity. By embracing both the allure of Marilyn's persona and the authenticity of your character, you can find an empowering path to self-confidence.