Marilyn Monroe fought Joan Crawford over a dress

In the realm of classic Hollywood, few rivalries spark intrigue quite like that between Marilyn Monroe and Joan Crawford.

Their dramatic clash in the early 1950s became one of the iconic narratives of old cinema, filled with gossip and heated allegations.

At the heart of their feud was a dress, a stunning gold creation that draped Monroe’s figure during the Photoplay magazine awards in 1953, marking the dawn of her ascent in Tinseltown.

At this juncture, Monroe was a rising star, dazzling audiences in films like All About Eve and The Asphalt Jungle.

Despite her burgeoning popularity, she hadn’t yet reached the heights of her later performances.

Conversely, Crawford was a well-established veteran of the silver screen, boasting an impressive portfolio that included the Oscar-winning role in Mildred Pierce and classics like The Women.

Monroe’s decision to don a revealing gold gown—crafted by costume designer William Travilla for Gentlemen Prefer Blondes—proved sensational.

The shimmering, tight-fitting attire hugged her curves so closely that she was literally sewn into it for the show.

Vanity Fair noted that the gown’s daring design gave the impression of nudity, a bold statement that turned heads and dropped jaws across the room.

As she sashayed to receive her Rising Star award, all eyes were on Monroe, even capturing the attention of gossip columnist Sheila Graham, who painted the scene of the actress captivating the audience.

Graham reported how gasps filled the air as Monroe’s entrance halted the show entirely, eclipsing the presence of established stars like Crawford and Lana Turner.

But Crawford wasn’t impressed.

Following the event, she expressed her disapproval to the press, labeling Monroe’s appearance as akin to a “burlesque show.”

In her eyes, Monroe’s audacity to flaunt her sexuality was shocking, suggesting that members of the industry should be above such ostentation.

She believed that while sexuality might be an intriguing aspect of life, it shouldn’t be displayed so overtly.

Crawford didn’t mince words when she told columnist Bob Thomas that Monroe’s publicity had crossed a line.

She argued that Monroe’s approach was misguided and called for a more dignified representation of femininity.

“She needs to be told she’s making a mistake,” Crawford insisted, claiming there was a fine line between allure and vulgarity.

In a surprising turn, Monroe graciously addressed Crawford’s criticisms.

She conceded feeling somewhat blindsided by the attack, especially considering Crawford’s prior role as a symbol of guidance in her own life.

She termed Crawford’s remarks impulsive, seeking understanding rather than revenge—a true testament to her character.

The reality of their relationship was more complex than mere rivalry.

Monroe recalled their initial meeting fondly in her posthumous autobiography, My Story, discussing how Crawford had provided sage advice on elegance and avoiding vulgarity.

Monroe remembered Crawford as an impressive figure she admired, expressing a desire to maintain her beauty as she aged.

However, the camaraderie didn’t last.

The following year, Crawford’s disdain re-emerged in print.

This time, she condemned Monroe’s Academy Awards appearance not for what she wore but for how she seemed to embody a public performance that diminished Hollywood’s dignity.

Monroe, surprised and hurt, struggled to grasp the harshness of Crawford’s critique.

The tension that brewed between them encapsulated the struggles of women in the entertainment industry, where public personas were uneasily balanced with the pressures of female competitiveness and societal expectations.

Their dispute reflects a broader narrative of Hollywood’s cutthroat nature, particularly for women navigating fame during that era.

Ultimately, the clash between these two titans of Old Hollywood serves as a reminder of the complexities of celebrity culture, the nature of rivalry, and the challenges faced by women in preserving their identities.

As Monroe and Crawford’s legacies continue to captivate audiences, their infamous feud lingers as a symbol of the glitter, grit, and glamour of a bygone era.