The Original Babe

While clicking through LIFE's recently unearthed photo outtakes of a pre-mega-fame Marilyn Monroe, I was reminded of how much I used to idolize and love dear Norma Jean. Long before my discovery of more, let's say, subversive fashion icons, Marilyn was it. I was obsessed with her platinum bob, her curves, her perfect pout.

I used to make my mom photocopy black and whites out of library books and save them in my drawers. I postered my walls with her face, an old friend even painted me a Marilyn chair! Also, she fit pretty perfectly into my burgeoning love for Andy Warhol. I found some Marilyn wrapping paper, which was quickly adhered to my closet doors. A few months ago my little cousin came strolling in and remarked "You're really obsessed with that blond woman, aren't you" and I was kinda like, oh yeah! I was!

I guess what I'm trying to say is that regardless of what tangent I may be on, Marilyn will always hold a special place in my heart...these pictures are just another example of why...

To see the rest of the pictures, visit http://www.life.com/image/first/in-gallery/27412