By Jessica Ye (Jessica Yap)

Few women have left a mark on fashion and popular culture quite like Marilyn Monroe.

More than six decades after her passing, the Hollywood icon continues to influence fashion campaigns, beauty imagery, film and celebrity culture around the world. Now, a new exhibition in New York is revisiting the woman behind one of the most recognisable images of the twentieth century.

Presented at Genesis House, Manifesting Marilyn: The Making of an Icon marks what would have been Monroe’s 100th birthday. Running through 2 August 2026, the exhibition explores the ambition, intellect and determination that helped transform Norma Jeane into a global icon.

While Monroe is often remembered for her glamorous public image, the exhibition focuses on the lesser-known aspects of her life, highlighting her role as a businesswoman, avid reader and strategic thinker who worked carefully to shape her own career.

The experience unfolds across six themed spaces. Among them is The Library, which features books from Monroe’s personal collection and offers insight into her interest in literature, psychology and philosophy. Another section, Marilyn’s Office, presents archival materials that reveal how she navigated Hollywood and sought greater control over her professional life.

“Marilyn’s Office” zone at “Manifesting Marilyn” | Image: Courtesy of Genesis House

Fashion enthusiasts will be particularly drawn to The Vanity, which examines how Monroe crafted one of the most influential images in popular culture through wardrobe, beauty and personal presentation.

“The Vanity” zone at “Manifesting Marilyn” | Image: Courtesy of Genesis House

The exhibition also includes The Transformation, an immersive cinematic installation tracing Monroe’s evolution from Norma Jeane to international star through visuals and audio drawn from her life and career.

Rare archival objects, personal belongings and historical materials further help paint a portrait of a woman whose legacy extends far beyond the photographs and film roles that made her famous.


“The Screen Experience” zone at “Manifesting Marilyn” | Image: Courtesy of Genesis House

Opening night was attended by actress and style icon Chloë Sevigny, whose influence across fashion, film and contemporary culture echoes the exhibition’s exploration of individuality and self-expression.

While Marilyn Monroe has inspired countless fashion collections, beauty campaigns and magazine editorials over the decades, Manifesting Marilyn: The Making of an Icon offers a chance to look beyond the mythology and revisit the person who helped create it.

Manifesting Marilyn: The Making of an Icon is now open at Genesis House through 2 August 2026.

Featured image: “The Screen Experience” zone at “Manifesting Marilyn” | Courtesy of Genesis House

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Posted by:Jessica Ye

Jessica Ye (Jessica Yap) is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Couture Troopers and a marketing veteran with 15 years of experience in the retail and fashion sectors. Holding a First Class Honours degree in Fashion Media & Industries from Goldsmiths, University of London, she balances high-level strategy with the creative fire of a true-blooded Leo. Jessica is a vocal critic of over-commercialisation, believing that art must always remain at the heart of fashion. She specialises in crafting narratives that preserve artistic value while driving industry impact.