Marilyn Monroe | Magazine Model

Not only was Marilyn Monroe born a brunette, but she was also born as Norma Jeane Mortenson. In the 1940s, she worked at a U.S. military factory when a photographer, David Conover, happened to shoot a picture of her and put it in Yank magazine. From there, she began modeling and signed with the Blue Book Model Agency. To make herself more employable, she dyed her hair blonde.

Monroe quickly became popular. In less than a year, she had already appeared on 33 magazine covers. It was not difficult for Hollywood to open its doors for her, as she easily became a household name after starring in her first film in the 1947 Dangerous Years. Fans and critics labeled Monroe as a “blonde bombshell,” and her films ultimately grossed $200 million. Until today, she is given credit as a major icon of pop culture.