There aren’t as many steps as you might think to achieve Marilyn Monroe’s classic, larger-than-life curls. As outlined in Live About, only four are required to achieve her iconic look. This technique will come out the best on hair that’s shoulder-length. On shorter hair, you won’t get the same effect due to lack of length, and with longer hair, the curls may not be as voluminous.
The first step is super easy and involves making sure you have all the tools you need, namely hot rollers, mousse, a brush, comb, and some hairspray. If your hair is on the frizzier side (no judgment here, we’ve all been there), you might want to get some smoothing serum too. You’ll also want to make sure you’re starting with clean, wet hair for a fresh base. Next, brush your hair until it’s completely tangle-free and run a generous amount of mousse through it, root to tips. After you’ve done this, part your hair on your preferred side and dry it thoroughly. Make sure you’re creating volume whilst drying by lifting your hair from its roots with your fingers.