If diamonds are a girl’s best friend, then fabulous frocks and delicious cocktails must rate highly in the popularity stakes too – and who doesn’t love a bit of old school glamour, as epitomised by Marilyn Monroe? From the end of September to late October, four pieces from the iconic blonde actress’ costume and clothing collection is to be on display at London’s May Fair Hotel, accompanied by private screenings of their associated films.
The mini exhibition comes in advance of an auction by acclaimed auction house, Julien’s Auctions, which will be selling the dresses, worn by Monroe on set and in press conferences for Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, There’s No Business Like Show Business, River of No Return and Some Like it Hot, on the 1st November at The Standard Oil Building in Beverly Hills. Held at 1pm West Coast time and 8pm GMT, the auction will also be live online at juliensauctions.com.
If your A/W clothing budget doesn’t extend to one of Marilyn’s frocks, you can still enhance your experience of seeing them in the flesh by enjoying one of the drinks that have been specially created by the award-winning team at the May Fair Bar. The Lorelei Lee, inspired by Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, is a delectable concoction of Courvoisier VSOP, Moët & Chandon Brut, Cabernet Sauvignon & cherry reduction and Champagne foam; alternatively, get an old West kick out of the River of No Return-inspired Kay Weston, which combines Bombay Sapphire gin, saffron syrup, orange blossom honey, lemon & Fever-Tree Mediterranean tonic. Fans of Some Like it Hot should try the Sugar Kane, which blends Bulleit Rye whiskey, Umeshu, Barolo Chinato and activated charcoal – or indulge in a Victoria Hoffman, which nods to There’s No Business Like Show Business with a mix of Roku gin, Yuzu, St Germain, spiced honey syrup and egg white.
Cocktail prices range from £14 to £18, but guests wanting to enhance their experience should book ahead for a private viewing of one of the referenced films, held in the charming May Fair Theatre. Various packages are available, starting from £20; this option allows you to enjoy the film with popcorn and one of the film-inspired cocktails. Alternatively, you can extend the enjoyment of the evening by dining at the Mayfair Kitchen.
The dresses will be on display from 24 September to 21 October, 2019 and the film schedule is as follows:
Gentlemen Prefer Blondes – Friday 27th September, 7.30pm
There’s No Business Like Show Business – Friday 11th October, 7.30pm
River of No Return – Tuesday 15th October, 7.30pm
Some Like It Hot – Friday 18th October, 7.30pm
#MarilynatMayfair
Packages must be booked in advance by visiting eventbrite.co.uk, emailing [email protected] or calling 020 7915 3892