Things have been somewhat quiet on here for almost a year due to me being busy with various other projects, however I simply had to write a post about this gem of a book, When a Girl’s Beautiful. The Life and Career of Joi Lansing by Richard Koper, published by BearManor Media.
Growing up in the UK, I knew very little about Joi. She would sadly, often be no more than a footnote in Marilyn Monroe biographies (much like several of her ‘Blonde Bombshell’ contemporaries). Her movies weren’t shown on TV in the UK, so the little information I had about her came from Photoplay magazine. Thankfully, Richard Koper has put Joi on the map as a star in her own right and given her the fitting tribute she truly deserves. I would go as far as to call When a Girl’s Beautiful . . . the definitive biography of Joi Lansing.
Koper chronicles all aspects of Joi’s life, including: her childhood and strained relationship with her mother; her romance with Frank Sinatra; her marriages and her untimely death. As well as the biographical aspect, the book also includes a thorough synopsis of Joi’s television, theatre and film appearances, which is perfect for those who wish to seek out some of her performances.
I found the book to be an easy read – it’s accessible and not bogged down with unnecessary or untrue ‘scandal’. I am also thrilled that Koper sources all of his material on the same page as the text – it not only gives credence, but helps the reader to judge which sources they may wish to read in their entirety. Once you start the book, it’s hard to put down, namely due to the fact that Joi is very likable and not one interviewee (of which there are many) had anything remotely negative to say about her.
When a Girl’s Beautiful is crammed full of high quality photographs and it is testament to the endeavors of the author that many rare and unpublished images are included, alongside the more famous publicity shots. BearManor Media deserve a special mention here because the photographs are reproduced beautifully. Many magazine covers are also included – my favorite being ‘TV Week’ from 1968.
From the beginning of the book, Koper busts the myth of Joi being a devout Mormon and reveals how, during the 1950s, publicity was paramount – without the right publicity, even the most beautiful and talented individuals would fail to reach the dizzy heights of stardom. Although Joi had some tragic elements in her short life, Koper does not dwell on these and writes of Joi’s personal life with respect and integrity. Rather than focusing on her untimely passing, we are given a realistic portrait of the woman and the life she lived.
It’s hard to believe someone as physically attractive as Joi could feel insecure about her looks, however the thought of growing old was something which plagued her throughout her short life. I found it interesting to read about her use of homeopathic medicine – a lifestyle approach I had always considered to be of the 21st Century. Ultimately, Joi’s story ended in tragedy when she passed away from breast cancer in 1972.
For anyone interested in Classic Hollywood, or ‘Blonde Bombshells’, this book is a must-have. Although I’ve read the text, I find myself returning to it regularly due to the inclusion of such wonderful photos. Having said this, after reading the biography it is apparent that Joi was much more than her image and by writing the book, Koper has made sure that the sweet, kind lady behind the glamour will never be forgotten.
When a Girl’s Beautiful, the Life and Career of Joi Lansing, by Richard Koper, published by BearManor Media is out now and available directly from the publisher or Amazon. You can also order it from any leading bookstore.
As a huge fan of Sabrina, I thought I would write a blog post about her as both a mid-century style icon and an influence on today’s fashion.
Sabrina by Bernard of Hollywood
Sabrina took fashion very seriously – she knew the value of perfecting her image and the rewards it could bring. Born Norma Sykes on 19th May 1936, she grew up with her parents in Stockport, Cheshire before moving to Blackpool at around the age of 13. Norma’s mother, Annie was a talented seamstress and this undoubtedly influenced Sabrina’s outlook on fashion. When Sabrina found fame on the Arthur Askey show, Before Your Very Eyes, her fishtail gowns were not initially provided by the BBC, but designed by Sabrina and made by her Mother. I thought it would be fun to show some of Sabrina’s iconic looks and modern day outfits that are reminiscent of those worn by Britain’s blonde bombshell.
*Please note that none of the modern day outfits pictured were designed in an attempt to copy the originals – it is sheer coincidence*
Early Career
Here’s Sabrina in a fishtail, jewel embellished gown, most likely made by Annie. When Sabrina moved to London she would visit the markets to find the most eye catching fabric, return home with a design in mind and let Annie work her magic.
Sabrina in a dress most likely made by Annie, her Mother
Stock Car (1955)
Sabrina starred in the film Stock Car in 1955. She played Trixie, the girlfriend of a criminal and although Sabrina was dubbed in the film, she was a knockout in a floor length lame dress with pleated bodice.
Sabrina as Trixie in Stock Car (1955)
To re-create Sabrina’s Stock Car style, the Mildred gown from London-based vintage reproduction label ‘Collectif’, would be an ideal choice!
Collectif Mildred gown
Philip Gotlop Photo Session (1955)
Although Sabrina was best known for her all out glamour, she also enjoyed dressing down in Capri pants and sweaters. Sabrina’s Capri pants were often sewn by Annie, who would make the same design in several colours.
Sabrina posing for Philip Gotlop in 1955
Collectif made a very similar design, albeit in a different colour. The Anna Capri Pants even feature the bow detail above the ankle.
Collectif Anna Capri Pants
Ken Russell Photo Session (1956)
When Sabrina was photographed by the legendary Ken Russell in 1956 she posed with a volume of Shakespeare’s work to prove she was no ‘dumb blonde’. Her leopard print cigarette pants were rather daring for the time and coupled with a black sweater, the ensemble certainly emphasized Sabrina’s phenomenal figure.
Sabrina posing for Ken Russell 1956Ken Russell session (1956)
To recreate Sabrina’s leopard print lounge look, try the Vixen Cigarette Pants in Leopard Print by American brand ‘Vixen by Micheline Pitt’.
Leopard print Vixen Cigarette Pants by ‘Vixen by Michelne Pitt’
Ascot (1957)
When Sabrina ‘gatecrashed’ the Royal enclosure at Ascot in 1957 she made headlines across the globe, relegating The Queen to the inside pages. Apparently she was simply looking for the ladies powder room, a story Sabrina still maintained many years later.
Sabrina at Ascot 1957
The photographs taken of Sabrina at Ascot remained some of her favorites and it is easy to see why.
Sabrina arriving at Ascot races 1957
Although not an identical copy, the Fatale Embroidered Dress from ‘The Pretty Dress Company’ is certainly reminiscent of Sabrina’s classic look.
Fatale Embroidered dress by The Pretty Dress Company
America – The Steve Allen Show (1958)
When Sabrina headed to America to film The Steve Allen Show in 1958 the audience went wild at the sight of her! Although America had seen many a blonde bombshell – they hadn’t seen one quite like Sabrina! The following day she was featured in many of the national newspapers. The full video footage of Sabrina’s appearance is available on YouTube.
‘Vintage Chic for Top Vintage’ recently released the Georgia dress, which bears more than a passing resemblance to the outfit worn by Sabrina on her American debut.
Vintage Chic for Top Vintage Georgia dress
Rome/Australia (1958)
In 1958, Sabrina signed a lucrative deal to take her Pleasures of Paris show to Australia. En route to Oz, she visited Rome, clad in a pale sweater dress which emphasized her curves with dramatic effect. Sabrina loved the dress so much she owned it in several colours.
Heading for Rome 1958
A black version of the dress worn in Australia, 1959
The Olive dress from Collectif clothing is a dead ringer for Sabrina’s figure-hugging sweater dress.
Collectif Olive Dress
Australian Women’s Weekly (1959)
In early 1959, Sabrina graced the cover of The Australian Women’s Weekly and gave a candid interview about her future plans, along with an insight into the construction of her image – revealing she wore a whopping 7 petticoats beneath her dress for the desired effect!
The Australian Women’s Weekly cover 1959
Sabrina’s Mother, Annie accompanied her on the trip and even took part in the photo shoot (see below).
Sabrina and Annie enjoying Billy Tea
The Peachy Keen Peasant Dress from ‘Doll Me Up Darling’ is an almost perfect match for the blue hues in Sabrina’s outfit.
Peachy Keen Peasant Dress from Doll Me Up Darling
Or, for a traditional Australian brand, try the Norma Jean dress from Retrospec’d clothing.
Retrospec’d Norma Jean dress
Caltex Commercial (1959)
Whilst in Australia, Sabrina filmed the now legendary advertisement for Caltex oil. Although some of the footage is lost, part of the advertisement still remains and is available on YouTube. The commercial has gained quite a following in recent years for it’s kitsch appeal.
For the advertisement Sabrina wore skintight lamé pants and her infamous 18″ metal belt!
Sabrina wearing her 18″ metal belt
If you are longing for Sabrina’s Lamé look, a good option would be the Hayworth pants from ‘Collectif’.
Collectif Hayworth pants
The Phantom Gunslinger (1970)
After her success on stage in plays such as Pajama Tops and Rattle of a Simple Man, Sabrina filmed the campy comedy western The Phantom Gunslinger. One of the outfits that really stands out in the film is the pink gingham dress Sabrina wore in several scenes.
The Phantom Gunslinger (1970)
American brand ‘Vixen by Micheline Pitt’ released the Bardot dress as part of their summer collection and the shade of pink is an almost perfect match for Sabrina’s Phantom Gunslinger dress.
Bardot dress by ‘Vixen by Micheline Pitt’
Although Sabrina’s influence can be seen far beyond the realms of modern day fashion, she was undoubtedly a style icon who adored experimenting with new styles and trends. She was comfortable being dressed by some of the world’s greatest Haute Couturists, but was just as proud to wear outfits made by her Mother, or unknown up and coming designers.
Cheers to Norma Sykes, a little girl from Stockport who still inspires to this day! Always Remembered x
I fist saw Joi Lansing’s photo about 15 years ago in Steve Sullivan’s book Bombshells: Glamour Girls of a Lifetime. I remember how striking her photo was – with her flawless complexion and sleek, perfect hair. Living in the UK, I had never seen one of her films or any television appearances (until YouTube became popular). I recently watched Joi in the film Who Was That Lady in which she and Barbara Nichols stole the show as the glitzy Coogle sisters. Eager to find out more about Joi, one of the most popular blonde bombshells of the 1950’s and 60’s, I turned to Alexis Hunter’s book Joi Lansing A Body to Die For.
Mid-50’s publicity still
Let me start by saying this is not your typical run-of-the mill biography – it goes much deeper than that. The book follows final 4 years of Joi’s life – which proved to be both the happiest and also, tragically, the saddest. The story is told candidly and with intense passion by author Alexis Hunter, who was then known as Nancy and later, Rachel. The cover is undoubtedly striking – Joi’s image reminiscent of an ethereal goddess emerging from darkness is something to behold. The photograph selections are beautiful and range from Joi at 5 years old to the high glamour of the camera of Maurice Seymour. There are also more candid photos of Joi on stage and with the author.
Joi in a pin up pose – she was very disciplined when it came to working out to achieve her figure
Whilst the book’s focus is primarily on the final 4 years of Joi’s life there is some insight into her background. Born Joy Rae Brown on April 6th 1929, she had a strained relationship with her mother and went on to star in films from a young age. Joi had a brief romance with Frank Sinatra and was married three times. Treatment by Hollywood moguls lead to poor self image and problems with pills and alcohol. Joi was undoubtedly one of America’s greatest sex symbols and did everything she could to live up to her image, including daily workouts and cosmetic procedures. As the title of the book indicates, the author believes it was the latter (administered by opportunist Doctors) that contributed to Joi’s untimely passing at just 43 years of age.
Pin Up Perfection
Without giving too much away, the book begins on the set of the campy B movie Bigfoot! which brought Joi and Nancy Hunter (author Alexis) together. Fans of Marilyn Monroe might be interested to read that the movie was produced by Robert Slatzer (who claimed to be Marilyn’s one-time secret husband). It is refreshing to read about Mr Slatzer in another light and, unlike many producers Joi had previously encountered, he comes across as a gentleman who respected her.
Bigfoot!
Central to the book is the love story that developed between Joi and Nancy, who became known as ‘Rachel’ after Joey Bishop told her she looked more like “a Rachel” and the name stuck from then on. At the time of meeting, Joi was still married to her third husband Stan Todd, from whom she had separated but remained friends. Alexis tells how she and Joi felt an instant connection, which soon led to them becoming both inseparable friends as well as lovers. This was Joi’s first relationship with a woman and Alexis explains that she and Joi pretended to be sisters in order to avoid a Hollywood ‘scandal’. In terms of social issues, reading the book made me realize how difficult it must have been for same-sex couples in the 60’s and 70’s and made me appreciate that today’s world is (thankfully) more accepting, although there is still a way to go. I can’t help but feel how unfair it was that Joi and Rachel had no choice other than to be secretive if Joi was to keep her image as one of America’s leading sex symbols.
Rachel and Joi
Tragically, Joi was diagnosed with cancer early on in the relationship and whilst this is extremely harrowing to read, there are also many wonderful upbeat moments that Alexis shares with the reader, including the time she and Joi found a penguin dressed in a tuxedo waddling around Hollywood (!) to moving into their dream home. The love Rachel/Alexis felt and still feels for Joi is evident on every single page. Events are described in such detail and with such devotion that the reader can really gain an insight into Joi’s world. Although Joi comes across as very sweet natured and almost childlike we also see a very disciplined woman who took her work very seriously and who showed enormous courage right to the end. I experienced a range of emotions reading this book – from elation to heartbreak – you can not help but root for Joi and Rachel with the turn of every page.
Hollywood Goddess
Although Joi’s story is extremely tragic, this book is a celebration of love and serves as a lasting memorial to a kind, brave and beautiful lady.
Ever since I started collecting books about Marilyn Monroe many decades ago, names would keep cropping up of so-called “imitators” – Mamie Van Doren, Diana Dors and Barbara Nichols. I became intrigued by these names and the grainy pictures that would accompany them. As the years went on and the internet took off, I began to collect films of these glamourous and sassy women and discovered that they were not “Marilyn imitators” at all. They were (and in Mamie’s case – still are) exceptionally talented, unique women in their own right and I firmly believe each one deserves the level of adoration often bestowed upon Marilyn Monroe. Finding books about Ms Van Doren and Ms Dors was easy, but Barbara Nichols remained an illusive mystery with no biography dedicated solely to her. Thankfully, author Richard Koper has put that right – and has done an excellent job!
Publicity still for ‘Where the Boys Are’
On the surface, the story of Barbara Nichols reads like a Hollywood dream – she posed for famed pin up photographer Bernard of Hollywood, starred alongside Frank Sinatra and certainly gave her contemporaries a run for her money in the glamour department. However, beneath her dazzling appearance, author Richard Koper reveals a complex and vulnerable, yet gutsy woman with a life more dramatic than the films in which she starred – including a near fatal car crash and a tragic decline.
Pin Up pose – late 1950’s
That Kind of Woman traces Barbara’s life from her beginnings as Barbara Marie Nickerauer on Long Island, New York through to cheesecake modelling and eventually Hollywood. Researching Barbara’s early life must have been no easy task, but with anecdotes from her family, no stone is left unturned and the vast amount of photographs (many of which are previously unseen) are a real treat. I especially enjoyed the magazine covers and modelling shots from the late 40’s and early 50’s.
Posing for Bernard of Hollywood
Barbara’s sheer ambition to make it as a movie star comes across, although sadly she was never given top billing, as Koper explains:
“Barbara Nichols excelled in playing sassy, wisecracking ‘not so dumb’ blondes. . . destined to play supporting parts in several classic movies, [she] is one of the best examples of the phrase “There are no small parts, only small actors”
Highly professional, she was well liked by her colleagues and starred in over 20 films, as well as making regular television appearances. Barbara was a larger than life character – both sassy and smart, yet despite her talent as an actress, she modestly once said “ It’s personality that sells in the movies, not great acting … personality is what I’m dishing up”.
The Sweet Smell of Success
Whilst Barbara had parts in ‘A pictures’ such as Pal Joey, The Pajama Game and The Sweet Smell of Success, Koper also delves beneath her career into her personal life. I particularly found the story of her romance with Steve Cochran fascinating because I always felt Barbara was much more guarded about her private life than her contemporaries.
The reader can also feel the frustration that Barbara must have felt by constantly being compared to Marilyn Monroe. Before reading the book I was unaware that she actually once dyed her hair brunette due to such tiresome remarks by journalists. Having said that, fans of Marilyn Monroe will love the book for the vast amount of photographs of Barbara in some of the costumes also worn by Marilyn.
Ten North Frederick – (Note Barbara is wearing the dress also worn by Marilyn Monroe in ‘The Seven Year Itch’)
One of the most tragic parts of the book is that the reader often feels Barbara was on the cusp of something big, only for opportunities never to materialise. It’s sad that someone with such a gift for both comedy and drama was never given ‘Leading Lady’ status.
That Kind of Woman is exceptionally well researched, with all sources referenced at the bottom of each page. The book strikes the right balance between detailing both Ms Nichols personal life and her career. A comprehensive filmography is a valuable source and with over 200 photos it is easy to see why Barbara was one of the best loved blondes of the 1950’s.
A very glitzy Barbara Nichols
Whilst Barbara’s story is extremely heart wrenching at times, the reader is able to gain a fascinating insight into the ‘real’ Barbara that lay beneath her bombshell persona and the legacy of the many wonderful films she left behind.
This Wednesday (April 5th ) at 9pm Channel 4 will air a new Marilyn Monroe documentary entitled Marilyn Monroe: The Auction of a Lifetime which will detail some of her most iconic dresses, as sold by Julien’s Auctions last November. As expected the dresses fetched astronomical prices and created a media buzz. This subject got me thinking about the massive impact of the ‘Bombshells’ on fashion, both in their lifetimes and now – and it is the latter I am going to focus on. The reproduction fashion scene has grown in popularity in recent years with many brands offering a modern take on classic vintage styles – and the style of the Bombshells is often at the forefront. Although some of the dresses are by no means copies, I think it’s wonderful that so many of these brands are paying tribute to the timeless style of the glamour girls of the golden age.
Marilyn Monroe
Blue Lorelei Lee Dress
Both Glamour Bunny and Pin Up Couture have produced versions of this dress in a variety of colours. The eye catching William Travilla dress was worn by Marilyn in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes in the scene where Lorelei famously tells her future father in law “I want to marry him for your money” (below, left).
Marilyn Monroe as Lorelei Lee in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes
Lorelei dress by Pin Up Couture
Lorelei dress by Glamour Bunny
The central photo, above, shows the ‘Lorelei’ dress produced by USA label Pin Up Couture, part of Pin Up Girl Clothing – a brand which is at the forefront of the Reproduction Vintage scene. The dress is most likely a few shades darker than the Travilla original.
The photo to the far left shows the Lorelei dress produced by UK based label Glamour Bunny. Complete with the fold over collar and cuffs the dress looks extremely close to the one Marilyn wore.
When watching Gentlemen Prefer Blondes recently, I noticed that the ‘Lorelei’ outfit in this scene looks more like a combination of a wiggle dress and bolero.
Niagra Promo Pink Linen Button Dress
Without a doubt, my favourite dress worn by Marilyn is the linen pink button dress she wore to promote the film Niagra (below). Having seen the original dress up close, I noticed it had it had undergone various alterations over the years and looked very fragile. It was also tiny. Surprisingly there hasn’t been an attempt to take inspiration from this until recently.
Marilyn Monroe Pink Linen dress publicity photo
USA based label Stop Staring! recently released the pink Nylad dress (below, centre), which reminds me of Marilyn’s pink figure hugging ensemble. It has the standout collar, however does not feature the button detail, or a front split.
Well respected European Boutique Top Vintage have just added the exclusive Rose dress by Vintage Diva (below, right) to their website. The colour, collar and button detail evoke Marilyn’s Niagra dress, although the button detail is centered around the bust , rather than down to the naval, as in the original. Even the name of the dress conjures thoughts of Marilyn – ‘Rose’ may refer to the colour, or it may be a nod to the character Marilyn played in Niagra – the scheming Rose Loomis.
Marilyn Monroe promotional photo for Niagra
Stop Staring! Nylad dress
Top Vintage Boutique Vintage Diva Rose dress
It is also worth noting that bombshell actress, Barbara Nichols also wore this dress in the film A Woman Obsessed (below).
Barbara Nichols in the pink linen dress in A Woman Obsessed
Marilyn Monroe/ Diana Dors
Marilyn Monroe Seven Year Itch Wiggle Dress / Diana Dors’ arrival in USA
Probably not the most famous white dress in The Seven Year Itch, but this William Travilla creation has also provided inspiration for modern reproduction clothing with Glamour Bunny producing a version, pictured below, left.
Left Glamour Bunny Marilyn dress – Right Marilyn Monroe in The Seven Year Itch
The original dress, which is made of broderie en anglais fabric, with a cross over feature above the bust, is also reminiscent of the dress worn by Diana Dors when she set sail aboard the Queen Elizabeth, bound for America to begin the film I Married A Woman (below).
Dennis Hamilton and Diana Dors
Diana Dors aboard the Queen Elizabeth
Diana Dors
Yellow Dress
The simple, yet eye catching dress worn by Diana Dors when she was photographed with her then-boyfriend Troy Dante’s band The Infernos in 1964 (below, left) looks very similar to the Jayne dress produced by Pin Up Couture (below, right). The low scoop neck and spaghetti straps are a true fashion deja vu.
Diana Dors and The Infernos 1964
Jayne dress by Pinup Couture
Cannes Dress
The white lace dress worn by Diana at the 1956 Cannes film festival (below, left) bears more than a passing resemblance to the cream Fatale dress by UK based label The Pretty Dress Company (below, right). Although Diana’s dress has a lace overlay and the Fatale dress does not, the cut and the style are classic bombshell . Even the name evokes thoughts of Ms Dors, who was often cast as the ultimate femme fatale.
Diana Dors 1956
Fatale dress by The Pretty Dress Company
Sabrina
British bombshell Sabrina was often photographed in glitzy gowns, but also knew how to make more casual clothes look exceptionally glamourous. Sabrina wore the ‘gyspy’ style top (below, left) for a publicity photo in the mid-50’s. British brand Collectif recently released their Spring/Summer collection and the ‘gyspy’ top (below, right) is very much a modern take on that worn by Sabrina.
Sandra Giles
Sandra Giles was one of the original ‘bad girls’ of the juvenile delinquent movies of the 1950’s. She smoldered as the hot rod racing chick Jana Ryan in Daddy-O (below, left). It seems only fitting that renown designer, Micheline Pitt’s new line, Vixen has the tag line ‘Good Things For Bad Girls’ as her Vixen top (below, right) is reminiscent of that worn by Sandra. Whilst it’s hard to tell the original colour of Sandra’s sweater, Vixen have it covered by releasing this top in a range of colours.
Sandra Giles in Daddy-O
Vixen by Micheline Pitt – Vixen Top
Daddy-O dress
For the action scenes in Daddy-O Sandra is wearing a simple, figure hugging dress with 3/4 sleeves (below, left), which looks very similar to the Melanie dress by Glamour Bunny (below, right). Who said you can’t hoodwink a criminal whilst looking super glamourous? The Melanie dress comes in a variety of colours.
Sandra saving the day in Daddy-O
Sandra – free from the clutches of Bruce
Glamour Bunny Melanie dress
Mamie Van Doren
College Confidential
When Mamie Van Doren starred as a wild student in the movie College Confidential (below, left) she ramped it up in the glamour department. The gingham wiggle dress with spaghetti straps and belt looks identical to the Priscilla Dress by The Pretty Dress Company (below, right). It is difficult to discern the original colour of Mamie’s dress due to the film being shot in black and white, luckily The Pretty Dress Company have released this dress in both yellow and pink.
Mamie Van Doren in College Confidential
The Pretty DRess Company Priscilla Dress
Girls Town Skirt
One of my favourite Mamie movies is Girls Town – how can one woman have that much sass? Her outfit consisting of a sweater and wiggle skirt with braces epitomizes the bad girl bombshell look (below, left). Collectif have produced a very similar skirt to give that bad girl edge – the Agarva Vintage Pencil Skirt (below, right) comprising of a high waist and those all important braces.
Mamie Van Doren in Girls Town
Collectif Agarva Pencil Skirt
**Please note – I do not own any of these garments, nor do I endorse any designer or company, I just enjoy Bombshells and highlighting their influence on modern society.**
Mamie Van Doren is a Bombshell for all eras. She is as cutting edge today as she was when she sang Rolling Stone in Untamed Youth in 1957. I first discovered Mamie after watching the film Girls Town and I have considered her the ultimate Bombshell ever since! She appealed to me not only because of her outstanding glamour, but the characters she played were not push overs – they were strong, independent women. One day I would love to write a Biography of Mamie as both a pop culture and feminist icon, but until then please enjoy this small tribute, which I hope will be a starting point for new fans, and evoke wonderful memories for the die-hards too!
Part One: Mamie Through The Decades
1930’S – Good Sweet Home Type Girl
Mamie and her Mother
Born Joan Lucille Olander, in Rowena South Dakota, on 6th February 1931 to Warner and Lucille Olander. As an only child, Joan was extremely close to her parents who she once described as “my Bonnie and Clyde”. From a young age Joan was fascinated by the movies and in particular Jean Harlow, who would be a great influence on her career. In 1939 the family moved to Iowa and Joan was a regular visitor to the local cinema. She recalled “I just loved the big silver screen with all those big actors, and that’s when I decided to become an actress, or a “movie star.” … It was just kind of ingrained in me”.
1940’s – Something to Dream About
Joan Olander – Miss Palm Springs
In 1942, Joan moved with her parents to Los Angeles, later working as an usherette at the Pantages Theater on Hollywood Boulevard. Joan’s striking looks meant that she did not go unnoticed. At the age of 17 Joan posed for well known pin up artist, Alberto Vargas and in 1949 she was crowned Miss Palm Springs. Her photo appeared in the newspaper and she was spotted by billionaire movie producer Howard Hughes (the same man who gave Mamie’s idol, Jean Harlow her big break).
Original Vargas portrait of Joan Olander
Mamie and Alberto Vargas recreating the portrait in 1955
1950’s – The Girl Who Invented Rock and Roll
Hughes offered Joan a small role in his movie Jet Pilot, however due to delays, the film was not actually released until 1957. In 1950 she married Jack Newman, a businessman, however they divorced the same year. Joan soon turned her talents to live theatre and took to Broadway to perform in the musical Billion Dollar Baby. Soon she was discovered by Jimmy McHugh, who recommended she take dramatic training because she was too talented for the chorus line. Around this time, Joan became involved with ex-champion athlete Jack Dempsey, who was more than 30 years her senior.
Jack Dempsey and Joan Olander
The publicity that the romance created resulted in a buzz about the new starlet and more film roles began to come her way. Her first noticeable role was in His Kind of Woman starring Jane Russell and Robert Mitchum.
Mamie in ‘His Kind of Woman’, one of her first noticeable roles
In 1953, Mamie signed a contact with Universal Studios. As with many stars of the Golden Age of Hollywood, it was suggested Joan change her name to something more glamourous. ‘Mamie’ was chosen because of Mamie Einsenhower (whose husband was being inaugaurated that day), and ‘Van Doren’ because ‘it sounded Dutch’ (linking back to her Scandinavian heritage). With a new name, things really began to take off. Universal marketed Mamie as a rival to Marilyn Monroe and her pin up photos appeared in magazines all over the world.
Tony Curtis and Mamie Van Doren in a publicity photo for ‘The All American’
Mamie’s first big movie was The All American, starring alongside Tony Curtis, this was soon followed by Yankee Pasha (1954) and the lavish musical, Ain’t Misbehavin’ (1955).
Original film poster for ‘Aint’ Misbehavin”. Mamie featured heavily in the promotional material
In 1955 Mamie played the role of Irma Bean in the juvenile delinquent movie Running Wild. Mamie was a natural for the role of a jitterbugging bad girl who loved good times. The same year a romance blossomed with band leader Ray Anthony. Mamie soon discovered she was pregnant, so she and Ray married and their son Perry was born the following year.
Mamie and Ray Anthony after their wedding ceremonyMamie and her son, Perry
Being a wife and mother was not the image the studio wanted for their sexbomb star and Mamie found herself being offered a slew of roles which were less than dynamic, so in true Mamie style she took the bull by the horns and began accepting roles in movies at different studios. She starred in films which are now considered cult classics, such as Untamed Youth (1957), Born Reckless (1958), High School Confidential (1958) Guns, Girls and Gangsters (1959), The Beat Generation (1959) and Girls Town (1959).
Mamie as Silver Morgan in cult classic, Girls Town 91959)
In these films Mamie carved a niche for herself which set her aside from her other bombshell contemporaries, she was often cast as the sassy bad girl with a good heart. Mamie’s characters are strong, independent, modern women, often not interested in marriage, just the thrill of the good times. In Guns Girls and Gangsters Mamie’s character Vi Victor exclaims her ambition is to “die rich”. In many ways Mamie was a trailblazer for the freedom of expression of the 1960’s.
Mamie and Eddie Cochran in a publicity photo for Untamed Youth (1957)
In 1958 Mamie was cast alongside one of her idols, Clark Gable in the romantic comedy Teacher’s Pet. Mamie appears in one scene, during which she performs the sizzling song The Girl Who Invented Rock and Roll, resulting in a very flustered Mr Gable!
Mamie Van Doren in Teacher’s Pet, costume designed by Edith Head
Mamie did film more scenes, however they ended up on the cutting room floor. The reason they were cut is unknown – some sources claim it was because of her revealing outfits and others have claimed rivalry between she and Doris Day. Although Mamie’s scene is brief, she dazzles in costumes designed by the legendary Edith Head. Edith was once quoted as saying that Mamie was one of her all time favourite stars to dress.
Clark Gable and Mamie filming Teacher’s Pet (1958)
Recently Mamie’s beaded gown, as worn in Teacher’s Pet was sold by Julien’s Auctions.
Mamie’s beaded gown, designed by Edith Head as sold by Julien’s Auctions
1960’s – The Beat Generation
Sex Kittens Go to College (1960)
Mamie and Ray divorced in 1961 and she became a single, working mother, commenting at the time “He (Ray) had to be the boss, and I respected him for that. But as my career zoomed, his declined – and so did our marriage”. Mamie’s popularity remained throughout the 1960’s and her film career continued. Notable films include Sex Kittens Go to College (1960), Vice Raid (1960), College Confidential (1960), 3 Nuts in Search of a Bolt (1964), The Candidate (1964) and Las Vegas Hillbillies (1956).
In the early part of the decade she was romantically involved with baseball player Bo Belinsky. The two became engaged, but the relationship ended. During the 1960’s Mamie turned her hand to writing and released three tell -all, illustrated autobiographies: I Swing, My Naughty, Naughty Life and My Wild Love Experiences. I Swing sold out just 10 days after it hit the shops!
Mamie’s autiobiography, My Wild Love Experiences
As well as the movies and writing, Mamie developed a successful cabaret act and starred in several Theatre productions, including Gentlemen Prefer Blondes. She talked of her almost impossible workload: “I had a son to support, I had no choice. In Chicago we did `Gentlemen Prefer Blondes’ and `Dames at Sea’ at the Drury Lane, and shows at the Arlington Park Theater. They burned you out, but audiences loved them”.
In 1966, Mamie caused a stir by marrying 19 year old baseball star, Lee Meyers, but they divorced the following summer. Tragically, Lee was killed 3 years later in a car accident.
Mamie and Lee Meyers
The 60’s proved to be a busy decade for Mamie, however her 3 month tour of the Vietnam war-zone changed her life. As well as performing in shows, she visited hospitals, including the wards of amputees and burn victims. In her Inside/out blog Mamie recalled the tour:
“I made two trips to Vietnam, entertaining the troops independent of the usual USO or Bob Hope tours—just me with a conductor and a small band traveling in a pair of Hueys, flying into remote fire stations from the Mecong Delta to the DMZ. The vets and I commiserated about the war, our nightmares, and the plight of many Vietnam vets.”
Mamie in Vietnam during the war
In her autobiography, Playing the Field Mamie reflected about the tour: “Nothing could have prepared me for the horrors of war. By the time I left Vietnam, the things I had seen and heard left me changed forever.”
1970s – Separate the Men From The Boys
Mamie as in Mamie Van Doren LP released 1976
The 70’s was a decade of huge change for Mamie. In 1971 she embarked on another tour of Vietnam. On her return she moved to London, residing in a luxury apartment near Harvey Nichols – her furniture was “all Chippendale”. The move to England did not prove to be permanent and Mamie returned to the USA the following year.
After settling back in the USA Mamie married her 4th husband, oilman Ross McClintock, who she later described as “a mistake”, going on to add “I’d refused to be an ornament for the studios, and I was damned if I’d be one at a bunch of dull cocktail parties”. After 4 months the marriage was annulled.
Mamie continued to work, releasing an album Mamie as in Mamie Van Doren and also toured in theatre. During this time Mamie met photographer Thomas Dixon and they eventually married in 1979.
1980’s- I Have A Heart
Mamie at the Hollywood Film Retrospective Tribute to Mamie Van Doren, April 1984
Always one to anticipate the next trend, Mamie spent the first half of the 80’s touring clubs and discos with her New Wave material. Her film career now began to experience a revival, a new generation were discovering her juvenile delinquent movies of the 50’s and in 1984 she attended the ‘Hollywood’s Film Retrospective and Tribute to Mamie Van Doren’ at The Nuart Theatre in Los Angeles.
During the 80’s Mamie was a much sought after chat show guest, especially after the release of her tell all autobiography in 1987 entitled Playing The Field: My Story. With it’s frank tales of the Hollywood studio system and Mamie’s romances (and the ones she turned down) – the book caused a stir!
1990’s – Anything Your Heart Desires
In 1994 Mamie’s talents were recognised by Hollywood and she was awarded her own star on the legendary Walk of Fame. She told The Hollywood Reporter:
“I love the location. It’s right near Mann’s Chinese Theater. I used to walk there when I was a youngster. Believe it or not, I go clean it myself. I take a can of Brasso and throw it in the back of my truck. I like to shine it when it gets dirty. I really make it sparkle. It’s probably due for another cleaning now.”
As the internet became a worldwide phenomenon Mamie launched her own website http://www.mamievandoren.com. She featured rare photos, Hollywood anecdotes, her musings on life as well as her insightful blog, Inside/Out.
2000’s and Beyond – Still A Troublemaker
Mamie Now featuring photos taken by Alan Mercer
As the new millenium dawned Mamie was as in demand as ever. Her website continued to gain populariry and she launched a limited edition wine – Mamietage, which was notable for it’s unique packaging featuring photos of herself.
In 2010, photographer Alan Mercer released the book Mamie Now, a coffee table book which celebrated her as the icon she is today. In the same year, Mamie released the country inspired album Still A Troublemaker – an apt title for a lady who was once considered the ‘bad girl’ of the movies.
Still a Troublemaker album cover
Due to increased interest, Mamie re-released a special collectors edition of her 1987 biography Playing the Field in 2013.
2013 edition of Playing the FieldPortrait by Olivia De Berardinis
She has also been the subject of work by celebrated pin up artist, Olivia De Berardinis – her career coming full circle from the Vargas girl she was at age 17.
Part Two: My Top Three Mamie Movies
1. Girls Town (1959)
Girls Town original movie poster
Girls Town is a juvenile delinquent, teen exploitation film of the highest caliber! Mamie plays the sassy and rebellious Silver Morgan who is sent to the Girls Town reform school for a crime she didn’t commit. Silver becomes friends with Sarafina (Gigi Perreau) who has been sent to Girls Town for stealing a lace nightie and breaking into the apartment of pop star Jimmy Parlow (Paul Anka)! When Jimmy comes to Girls Town to perform for the inmates he is greeted by the following comment from Silver:
“Big deal. King Groovy comes to Dungeonsville to make with a song for poor little old us. What do you want me to do, kiss your foot?”
The film also stars Mel Torme as the oldest teenage hoodlum in town (Mel was aged 31 at the time of filming). With catfights, hot rod races and human trafficking the film is nothing short of “crazy, cool and fantabulous”!
Favourite quote:
Dick Culdane (Ray Anthony) to Silver: “you’re new around here aren’t you” Silver: “Fresh outta the box, daddy-o”
Mamie and Paul Anka recording the Girls Town theme tune
Interesting fact: Paul Anka wrote a song named Hey Mamma for Mamie to sing in the movie. The scene was filmed, but was cut by the censors because it showed Silver singing in the shower. Mamie quipped at the time “even bad girls have to shower”. You can see the scene here.
2. Untamed Youth (1957)
Untamed Youth original movie poster
Mamie stars as Penny Lowe in this rock n roll exploitation film. She and her sister, Jane (Lori Nelson) are singers, arrested for hitchhiking. They are subsequently sent to a reform camp to pick cotton and are secretly fed dog food for dinner (!). Other delinquents are played by Eddie Cochran and Jeanne Carmen, among others. Controversial for it’s day, Untamed Youth was on the Catholic Legion of Decency list of objectionable films due to it’s “immorality”. The film deals with issues that were not commonly dealt with at the time, such as teenage pregnancy out of wedlock. This is one of Mamie’s personal favourite movies.
Mamie’s EP featuring songs from Untamed Youth
Interesting Fact: Mamie sings 4 rock n roll songs, written by Eddie Cochran, making her the first woman to sing rock n roll on film (she really was the girl who invented rock n roll!). The songs were released as an EP to coincide with the film’s release in 1957.
3. Guns, Girls and Gangsters (1959)
Guns, Girls and Gangsters original movie poster
A cheating blonde, a crazed con and the biggest armored car robbery in history – what’s not to love about this film? Mamie stars as singer Vi Victor in this festive crime thriller. Along with the criminal Chuck Wheeler they plan to hijack and armored car containing 2 million dollars.
Favourite quote:
Just before Vi is about to sing at the motel: “Give me plenty of room, men. I take deep breaths!”
Part 3: Mamie Mysteries
1. The Blonde From Buenos Aires
The Blonde from Buenos Aires original movie poster
The Blonde from Buenos Aires was released in Argentina in 1961 and in Europe in 1962. It is one of the few Mamie films I have never seen, and as far as I am aware the film is lost. It has never surfaced in any form online. If anyone has a copy, or if you went to see the movie when it was released, please get in touch as I would love to hear more about it.
A still from The Blonde from Buenos Aires
2. That Girl From Boston
In 1975 it was announced that Mamie would be starring in a film entitled That Girl From Boston. I understand that the film was never completed, but wonder if any footage was shot and if it is still out there somewhere? I did find a book that was released to accompany the movie, which indicated that some scenes were in fact filmed. Any information would be greatly appreciated.
That Girl From Boston book released to coincide with the film
Mamie has certainly had both a wild and creative life so far! Now all that’s left, is for me to wish the living legend that is Mamie Van Doren a truly HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
I was extremely saddened to learn that Sandra Giles, one of the brightest bombshells to grace the silver screen passed away on Christmas Day 2016 at the age of 84. I have been a fan of Sandra’s since reading about her in Richard Koper’s fantastic book, Fifties Blondes: Sexbombs, Sirens, Bad Girls and Teen Queens. The photos Richard included had a real magical and glamorous quality to them, so I decided to start collecting Sandra’s films and have been a fan ever since! Last year I started The Sandra Giles Picture Page on facebook as a place where fans could share photos and learn more about Sandra. Sandra was a true star of the golden age of Hollywood and I hope you enjoy reading my tribute to this wonderful actress.
Early Life
Sandra posing in her Los Angeles home – March 1956
Born Leila Bernice Giles on July 24th 1932 in Hooker, Oklahoma, Bernice decided she was going to be a movie star at a young age. She dressed like a film star and was exceptionally photogenic. Bernice grew up in Texas and early in her career she won a number of coveted beauty contests and became Miss Tiger, Miss Corpus Christi and Miss San Antonio, to name but a few. After moving to Hollywood to be with her mother, who had recently divorced Bernice worked at the famous Canters Delicatessen and it was here where she was discovered by Press Agent Shelley Davis.
Canters Deli as it looked when Bernice (later Sandra) Giles worked there
Under the direction of her new press agent, Bernice changed her name to Sandra (the name of her young daughter) and Davis set about making Sandra a star. In May 1956 fellow blonde bombshell Juli Reding suggested that press agent Shelley hire the newly named Sandra Giles for a publicity stunt to promote the opening of the new 15 storey Fremont Hotel in Las Vegas.
June 1958 – Sandra (foreground) and pal Juli Reding (background)
What followed was an ingenious publicity stunt that certainly put Sandra on the map and made the front page of the LA Times. The article began:
Las Vegas, May 21 – A celebrated artist and a lady’s honor became embroiled in some two fisted press agentry last night on behalf of a new hotel opening in downtown Las Vegas. The lady, embarrassed to tears with the realization that a life sized painting of her, in suggestive undress, was to decorate the hotel’s casino, indignantly slapped the artist across the mouth. Not hard though. Her press agent, dutifully outraged, thereupon joined in a fistic duel with the hotel’s press agent and threatened to sue everybody who had a part in the proceedings.
Sandra “rapping Paval round the chops!”
Sandra insisted she posed in a swimsuit, which was confirmed by the artist, Paval, who quipped “Certainly she posed in a bathing suit. But I used my imagination”. (The full transcript of the article as it appeared in the LA Times can be read in the Appendix at the bottom of the page).
Sandra standing in front of the infamous painting by Paval
After the debacle it was reported that an out of court settlement was reached which saw Sandra awarded $25,000 in compensation.
Cover Girl
The publicity stunt resulted in Sandra becoming one of the most photographed women of the late 1950’s. Her image began to grace the covers of many magazines including: Glamour Parade, Escapade and Adam. In 1958 she was given a 3 page spread in the well respected American magazine Life entitled The Blonde From Hooker – How To Become A Movie Star.
By 1957 Sandra’s profile in Hollywood had gained celebrity status and she was named Miss 8 Ball by the Los Angeles Press Association.
As Miss 8-Ball Sandra promoted the film Teacher’s Pet starring Doris Day and Clark Gable and in March 1958 she attended the premier, arriving in her famous pink, fur covered Thunderbird, which certainly got her noticed. She was greeted a with a star’s welcome, despite the fact she was not actually featured in the film.
Miss 8-Ball signing autographs at the premier of Teacher’s Pet, 1958
Such savvy publicity gimmicks soon lead to a movie career. The Producer A. C Lyles once commented: “She had that wonderful appeal for all the guys, but she didn’t intimidate the women. She had the same innocence as Marilyn [Monroe]. She didn’t look like she would go after someone’s husband. And she had this great gift for publicity, hardly without even trying. It just seemed to come to her.”
Sandra poses on her famous pink faux fur covered Thunderbird
Movie Career
Lust to Kill (1958)
1958 was a great year for Sandra. She had a small role in the western Lust to Kill and was featured heavily in the promotional material, despite not actually having any lines in the film. The studio wanted to capitalize on Sandra’s recent feature in Life Magazine.
Lust to Kill Original Film PosterLust to Kill Original Lobby Card
Sandra was also given a sizable role as Darlene in teen flick Lost Lonely and Viscous. Darlene is naive, but focused on her career. She is not interested in getting married or settling down, reflecting the way women’s roles were beginning to change in American society.
Sandra (right) as Darlene in Lost, Lonely and Vicious (1958)
However it was the cult beat movie Daddy-O in which Sandra had a staring role that cemented her place as one of the blonde bombshells of the 1950s.
Daddy-O original film poster
Sandra starred opposite Dick Contino in a tale of hot rod racing, drug trafficking and rock and roll.
Sandra and Dick Contino in the classic B movie Daddy-O
Controversial for it’s day, Daddy-O was aimed at the new generation of ‘teenagers’ and like other films of the time, such as High School Confidential, it sent a shudder through middle America. Whilst Doris Day was giving her home “A Woman’s Touch” in Calamity Jane it must have been extremely refreshing for young female cinema goers to see a character like Jana Ryan, played by Sandra Giles in Daddy-O. She is from a middle class background (“her old man must have more dough than Jack Benny”), yet she plays the boys at their own game – finishing first in a hot rod race. She later tells Dick Contino’s character “I go where I want and I do what I want and it’s none of your damn business!”. This must have been a revelation for women at the time – you can be glamorous and independent.
Sandra as Jana Ryan in Daddy-O
Daddy-O had a resurgence in popularity in 1991 when it was lampooned by Mystery Science Theatre. Whilst it is easy to sneer at such films now, at the time of release they were cutting edge and dealing with issues that were not the usual cinema fodder. Quentin Tarantino gave a nod to Daddy-O as a movie poster can be seen in Jack Rabbit Slim’s club in Pulp Fiction.
1960’s and Beyond
A brunette Sandra on the cover of ‘Adam’ (early 60’s)
As the era of the blonde bombshell drew to a close, Sandra went brunette and starred alongside Elvis in It Happened At The World’s Fair (1963).
It Happened At The World’s Fair – Original Lobby Card (Sandra front left)
Sandra continued to be a huge crowd drawer at events such as the Motion Picture Tennis Association Tournament. She also turned her talents to the stage starred alongside Mickey Rooney and Tony Randall in The Odd Couple at Caesar’s Palace.
Sandra with Howard Duff at the Motion Picture Tennis Association Tournament 1964
As television became more popular Sandra starred in several of America’s best loved shows including Rawhide, Burkes Law, Quincey M.E and Columbo, to name but a few. By the 1990’s Sandra had became a successful business woman, selling real estate in L.A and also owned her own restaurant.
Sandra interviewed by Hollywood Exclusive in 2009
In 2009, Sandra was interviewed by Hollywood Exclusive Entertainment News and and reflected on a career spanning over 50 years, concluding that “the business has been very good to me”. The full interview can be seen here.
On 26th December, 2016 it was reported by Highlight Hollywood that Sandra had passed away on Christmas Day, aged 84. The article celebrated Sandra as “a true lady”. She will be greatly missed by all her fans, and will be forever remembered, not only as a pin up, actress and Hollywood star, but also as the girl who gave the boys a run for their money in Daddy-O.
Appendix
Full Article regarding the Las Vegas publicity stunt as it appeared in the LA Times in 1956 :
Las Vegas – May 21 – It all took place at a press banquet ballyhooing the new 15 storey Fremont Hotel, an establishment which hopes to appeal to the convention trade. Several months ago, it developed the hotel management had commissioned artist Philip Paval, before whom had sat the King of Denmark and other notables to paint a “Lady of Chance” portrait to hang in the main gambling casino. An aspiring actress, Sandra Giles, 22 agreed to model, and Paval began laying on the oil.
Last night came the unveiling. Miss Giles a blonde of imposing proportions claimed she had not viewed the finished portrait. In front of 65 banquet guests, mostly newsmen, Paval proudly took the wraps off his masterpiece – a shameless nude in repose.
Miss Giles shrieked and promptly rapped Paval on the chops. “I don’t want to be Marilyn Monroe!” she wailed. “I want to be an actress. I didn’t pose that way! I had a bathing suit on!”The audience, fully awake now, applauded as her press agent, Shelley Davis grappled with the hotel’s publicist, Don Simmons. “This is a terrible, lewd thing”, Davis panted. “We’re going to sue the hotel. And you too, Paval”. Paval weathered the reception with remarkable calm, considering. He said the hotel paid him $2500 to paint Miss Giles. “Certainly she posed in a bathing suit” the artist admitted. “But I used my imagination”.
Other Bombshell Connections
Mamie Van Doren
Mamie Van Doren (left) Sandra Giles (right)
Sandra was twice photographed with Mamie, firstly in October 1956 at the Ballyhoo Ball and again some 50 years later.
Joi Lansing
Joi Lansing at Ray Anthony’s party …
Sandra and Joi were friends, so much so that in 1966 Sandra threw a birthday party for Joi. Unfortunately I have never seen any photos of this event, however the two were both photographed (albeit separately) at the tenth anniversary party for Ray Anthony at Capital Records.
… which was also attended by Sandra Giles
Juli Reding
Sandra (foreground), Juli Reding (background)
Sandra and Juli Reding were roommates in the mid fifties, after meeting at a trade show at which they were both working. It was Juli who recommended Sandra for the opening of the Las Vegas Fremont Hotel, after she was unable to attend. The two were photographed together on several occasions.
Sources:
Koper, Richard: Fifties Blondes: Sexbombs, Sirens, Bad Girls and Teen Queens (Bear Manor Media). Available on Amazon
The first Marilyn Monroe film I ever saw was Gentlemen Prefer Blondes. I was only 7, but it became a major influence on my life. The fashion, glamour and the magic of Marilyn Monroe and Jane Russell are like nothing I had ever seen before. It opened up a whole new world to me. I began to collect Marilyn Monroe books (amassing well over 100) and the film photos that always made me smile the most were the ones from Gentlemen Prefer Blondes. The film is based on the novel by Anita Loos and was released in 1953. Marilyn Monroe plays the role of gold digging Lorelei Lee and Jane Russell is the no nonsense Dorothy Shaw. After scouring many books I noticed that there was a a sequence of photos of Marilyn and Jane in pointed hats and flower trimmed bustiers climbing what looked like a ladder that didn’t appear in the film. I had to find out more – which was a much lengthier task before the internet was invented!
Four French Dances
In Lawrence Crown’s wonderful coffee table book Marilyn at Twentieth Century Fox I discovered that this was from a deleted scene featuring a number called ‘Four French Dances’.
Original footage of the Four French Dances sequenceLavishly choreographed …… fun and flirty Napoleon-esque hats
The Four French Dances are made up of Sur la Balcon, Soltaire, Parle d’affair, La Tentateur. Jane and Marilyn are wearing bustier/ corsets designed by William Travilla and sequinned hats based on the style worn by Napoleon. Lorelei and Dorothy can be seen briefly in the costumes in the dressing room scene with Tommy Noonan directly before Lorelei takes to the stage to sing the iconic Diamonds are a Girls Best Friend number. (Interestingly Marilyn’s costume showed up on Sheree North a few years later in 1955 for an appearance on Us TV – see below).
Marilyn Monroe (1953) – Sheree North (1955)
One of the costumes had up until recently been part of the famous David Gainsborough – Roberts collection and I was lucky enough to see it at an exhibition a few years ago. It was recently sold by Juliens Auctions, although alterations had been made to the costume – it was sold with artificial pink flowers instead of the original yellow faux roses (looking more like it did when Sheree North borrowed it in 1955 – see below).
Four French Dances costume as it exists today
The scene was filmed in full and looks like a lavishly choreographed, fun and flirty piece. A snippet of film exists in the original film trailer which can be viewed here
Promotional Card issued for release – note Marilyn and Jane in the moon top left
I have heard different stories surrounding the Four French Dances: some say that it is completely instrumental, whilst others suggest that Marilyn and Jane are singing Two Little Girls From Little Rock in French. Unless the original footage is discovered in the Twentieth Century Fox vault we will never know for sure. Unfortunately this looks very unlikely . According to Lawrence Crown the soundtrack was found in the Twentieth Century Fox archive, but not the footage. The book quotes James Blakely, the assistant editor on Gentlemen Prefer Blondes:
“In those days it was standard practice at Fox to wait one year after the release of a picture, and then we would junk all of the outtakes and all of the trims. We’d throw them away because of storage problems, and because we never thought we’d use them again. In fact, when I graduated from editing and was put in charge of post-production, I would issue a ‘letter of destruction’ with my signature on it, saying that it was okay to throw away a specified list of trims and outtakes. Those would be dumped into large barrels and taken away.”
‘Four French Dances’ or ‘Little Rock’ in French?
With all things Marilyn though, you never know what will turn up – which leads me on to the next ‘lost’ scene from Gentlemen Prefer Blondes.
Down Boy
In April 2005 one of the most exciting Marilyn discoveries of recent times took place. A gentleman named Jack Allen was looking through some auction memorabilia which belonged to a studio worker who had recently passed away. To his surprise he found a truly hidden gem – a recording of Marilyn Monroe singing an unreleased song entitled Down Boy. Mr Allen told Entertainment Weekly:
“It was mixed in with some other records, what they call playback records, which are records that film studios produced that artists would then move their mouths to during filming. There was a set from Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, and among them was this record, ‘Down Boy.’ ”
Mr Allen did some research and found that although the song was recorded, the scene was never actually filmed. It was intended as a song for Lorelei to sing to Sir Frances Beekman aka ‘Piggy’, played by Charles Coburn. The song would most likely have been featured in the scene in which we just see a brief glimpse of Marilyn and Piggy dancing whilst Jane Russell and Elliott Reid look through the window. Marilyn is wearing the famous William Travilla gold lame gown which she wore in various publicity photos and to events.
Rear view of Marilyn as shown in the final cut of the film
Down Boy was written by Hoagy Carmichael and Harold Adamson, who also composed Aint There Anyone Here For Love and When Love Goes Wrong both of which made the final cut of the film.It’s an upbeat, lighthearted number and showcases Marilyn’s vocal talent wonderfully. Her voice is accompanied by just a piano and a man’s voice can be heard singing on occasional parts. I feel the track would have made a great addition to the film. However, although the track did not make it into Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, it did resurface sung by Betty Grable in the 1955 film Three for the Show and can be heard here.
Down Boy!
The scene intended for Down Boy was also problematic due to Marilyn’s gold lame Travilla dress. The dress was deemed too risque and low cut for the film, so we only see Marilyn in the dress from behind. Here it is from the front:
What the film-goers didn’t get to see
Another song said to have been cut from Gentlemen Prefer Blondes is When the Wild Wild Women Go Swimmin’ Down in Bimini Bay. Details for this song are much more sketchy. I have been unable to find out where in the film the song was intended to be performed and by whom. One day it might just surprise somebody who is clearing out their attic!
Original Soundtrack 10″ LP released by MGM in 1953
Diamonds Are A Girls Best Friend – The Costume That Never Was
The pink floor length gown Marilyn wore to deliver the legendary and show-stopping number Diamonds Are A Girls Best Friend was surprisingly not the original costume idea for this piece. A much more revealing outfit had been designed and costume tests completed.
Original William Travilla costume sketch for Diamonds Are A Girl’s Best Friend
Apparently William Travilla intended the original outfit to look like a giant diamond necklace.
Colour costume test shot of Marilyn in the finished outfit
The outfit appears to be held together by black fishnet material. It has a bejeweled bikini-effect top and a matching belt which drapes in the centre to create the ‘diamond necklace’ look. The look is finished off with long black gloves and matching feather fan and headdress.
Close up of the original costume
The back of the costume features a jeweled bow made of what look like rhinestones.
Rear view
With the costume tests completed the outfit was ready to go, however the ‘scandal’ of Marilyn being revealed as the model on the Golden Dreams calendar by Tom Kelly meant that Fox did not want to attract any negative publicity to the film by dressing Marilyn in such a revealing outfit, so they asked designer William Travilla to produce something “sexless” the result of which was the famous pink gown.
Original Travilla costume sketch of the pink ‘Diamonds’ dressThe now famous pink dress as seen in the film
All that is left of the original costume today is the belt and feather fan. The top half of the costume was modified and worn by Sheree North in How To Be Very Very Popular, but it’s whereabouts is sadly unknown.
Other Bombshell Connections ….
The Girl From Missouri
In 1934 Jean Harlow starred as Eadie Chapman in The Girl From Missouri. The screenplay was partly written by Anita Loos and does bear a few similarities to her novel Gentlemen Prefer Blondes.
The Girl From Missouri original movie posterJean Harlow and Patsy Kelly
Eadie is determined to marry a rich man to escape her life as a showgirl. She is joined by her wise cracking brunette friend Kitty played by Pasty Kelly. Kitty doesn’t care for money and her head is easily turned by a good looking man.The two embark on Eadie’s quest, but it all goes wrong when Eadie finds herself arrested for a crime she didn’t commit. The Girl From Missouri is one of Jean Harlow’s funniest and most captivating films and I think an official UK DVD release is long overdue.
Mamie Van Doren
Blonde Bombshell Mamie Van Doren played the role of Lorelei Lee in a stage version of Gentlemen Prefer Blondes – a show I would have loved to have seen. She also once famously quipped “it is possible that blondes prefer gentlemen”!
Original playbills for Mamie Van Doren in the touring version
Mamie also wore Marilyn’s sequinned leotard which can be seen in promotional photos for the film and on posters outside the Theatre Lorelei and Dorothy are performing at in Paris.
Marilyn and Jane in the sequinned leotards …… which Mamie wore a few years later, pictured with then-husband Ray Anthony
Sheree North
Sheree North has been pictured in various costumes worn by Marilyn or Jane Russell (it can’t be confirmed whose costume she borrowed as they look identical) in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes. Namely the red dress worn to perform Two Little Girls From Little Rock, the sequinned leotard trimmed with faux roses from Four French Dances and part of the original Diamonds Are Girls Best Friend costume that was never used in the film.
Sheree in the ‘Little Rock’ gown
Sheree was also cast alongside Betty Grable in the 1955 film How to be Very Very Popular, roles that studio bosses had originally hoped would be filled by Marilyn and Jane Russell, capitalizing on their success in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes. Marilyn refused the role as she did not want to be typecast. How to be Very Very Popular also starred Gentlemen Prefer Blondes alumni Tommy Noonan and Charles Coburn.
How to be Very Very Popular original poster
Gentlemen Marry Bruenettes
In 1955 Jane Russell starred in Gentlemen Marry Brunettes, which was based on Anita Loos’ follow up novel to Gentlemen Prefer Blondes. Jeanne Crain was Russell’s co star, but the film was not as well received as Gentlemen Prefer Blondes.
Gentlemen Marry Brunettes – original film poster
As in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes the story centres around two American showgirls who decide to leave New York for Paris.
Jane Russell and Jeanne Crain in Travilla costumes similar to the original ‘Diamonds’ costume worn by Marilyn
The costumes were designed by William Travilla and the outfits worn by Jane Russell and Jeanne Crain in the still above bear more than a passing resemblance to Marilyn’s original Diamonds Are A Girls Best Friend costume, although the fishnet seems to have been replaced with a sheer looking fabric.
Hello there and welcome to my Bombshell Blog! 2017 has landed, so Happy New Year! What better way to welcome the start of a New Year than with a photo of Britain’s one and only Diana Dors . Hard to believe this photo is almost 70 years old! One of my highlights of 2016 was visiting Diana’s hometown of Swindon and the locations of her various homes in Bray, Maidenhead and Sunningdale on the 85th anniversary of her birth (much more about this adventure in a forthcoming blog). Diana was a British phenomenon and had a career which spanned almost 40 years. She was a truly gifted actress and a ‘National Treasure’.
I saw in the New Year watching the fabulous and perennial Bombshell Mamie Van Doren in the ‘cool and crazy’ B film ‘Girls Town‘ – starting the year as I mean to go on!
In the coming weeks I will be posting a tribute to the beautiful Sandra Giles who passed away aged 84 on December 25th 2016.
Sandra was an incredible woman who truly shone on the silver screen. She starred in the ‘B’ movie classic Daddy-O as well as Lost, Lonely and Vicious and It Happened at the World’s Fair, alongside Elvis.In the meantime, if you would like to find out more about Sandra please visit my facebook page dedicated to her – The Sandra Giles Picture Page.
For Christmas I received Richard Koper’s biography of Barbara Nichols entitled ‘That Kind of Woman: the Life and Career of Barbara Nichols‘.
Barbara is one of the ‘bombshells’ of which I know very little about, so I’m looking forward to reading the biography and sharing my review on this blog. The book contains many photos and insights from Barbara’s family, along with a very detailed filmography. Barbara had minor roles in many ‘A’ film classics such as Pal Joey and The Pajama Game. She was a gifted comedienne, but proved herself as a most credible actress in the film noir The Sweet Smell of Success in which she co-starred with Tony Curtis.
Another highly anticipated Christmas present was the coffee table book ‘Marilyn in Fashion‘ by Christopher Nickens and George Zeno detailing the personal outfits and costumes worn by probably the most famous bombshell – Marilyn Monroe. I have been fascinated with the fashion of the fifties and Marilyn Monroe for as long as I can remember, so this should be the perfect book for me. I will post my review soon.
I do hope you will enjoy my Bombshell Blog. I have many articles, reviews and rare photographs to post in the coming months about all of the 50’s ‘Bombshells’ and can’t wait to get writing!
In the words of Lorelei Lee “thanks ever-so”. The B Movie Bombshell xx
What better way to welcome the start of a New Year than with a photo of Britain’s one and only 
B Movie Bombshell 