Today a cult classic, this hand-knitted Mexican cardigan with vibrant motifs skyrocketed to fame thanks to legendary actress Marilyn Monroe. Far from glamorous gala gowns, this cozy wool piece—purchased by chance in a Toluca shop for just 130 pesos (about $6)—was never meant to become the mythical fashion icon it is today.
Marilyn's love affair with this Mexican cardigan began as a practical buy. She confided to her housekeeper Eunice Murray during their shopping trip that she got it to "wear on cool mornings when I have to leave the house early." But the star soon made it her own, donning the cozy cardigan on film sets, including her 36th birthday celebration during the shoot for Something's Got to Give. Overnight, the Mexican cardigan became a star in its own right.
Rich in history, this hand-knitted gem was among Marilyn Monroe's final fashion choices. Just weeks before her death, she selected it from her personal wardrobe for a beach photoshoot with photographer George Barris in Santa Monica.
Following Marilyn Monroe's death, brands rushed to replicate it. The original, bought for $6, fetched $167,500 at auction to Ripley's Believe It or Not. Etched in cinema and fashion history through Marilyn, this timeless cardigan remains a wardrobe essential.
Also read:
Sex Tape: From Marilyn Monroe to Benjamin Griveaux—A Brief History
The Dress Marilyn Monroe Wore for Kennedy's Birthday Sells for €4.5 Million
