As far as bikini babes go, you could say Marilyn Monroe is up there. Aside from being one of the sexiest women in the history of, oh, ever, the actress was a fashion icon in her own right.
Monroe rocked retro looks that still inspire us today. And when she took her pinup style to the beach, we're guessing that mermaids everywhere got jealous. So, just as we near the peak of summer, we can’t help but to look to the icon for a little seaside style inspiration.
VIDEO: Marilyn Monroe's Beauty Transformation
From glamorous bikini portraits of the star to candid snaps of Marilyn just being Marilyn on the beach, scroll through to see her most iconic swimsuit moments.
1953
The blonde bombshell shows off her enviable figure in an all-white bikini with contrasting button detailing. She kept it glam with a pair of gold hoop earrings and Lucite heels.
1953
Consider it the Marilyn Monroe Bikini Uniform: The Gentlemen Prefer Blondes actress poses in a ruched one-piece with a sweetheart neckline. Oh, and strappy heels.
1953
Monroe shows off her hourglass-shaped assets in an ultra-flattering one-piece with a crystal embellishments. A pair of sky-high sandals complete the look.
1951
The fashion icon rocked the itsy bitsy polka dot bikini before it was cool (and before Brian Hyland wrote a song about it).
1950
The bombshell lays out in a mix-n-match set: a printed top with a solid white bottom. Oh, and spot those wedge heels.
1948
The icon poses in a striking blue number with figure-flattering ruched detailing. Don't forget the red lip and the pin-curl waves!
