The dress from the iconic rendition of “Happy Birthday” that was worn by Marilyn Monroe when she sung to President John F. Kennedy for his 45th birthday celebration at New York's Madison Square Garden on May 19, 1962 was sold for $4.81 million.
The dress, which was expected to go for around $3 million, sold at Julien’s Auctions in Los Angeles on Nov. 17 and it set a new record for the highest price paid for a piece of personal clothing.
According to Fox News, this notable outfit was not purchased by an unknown collector, the nearly $5 million deal was made by Ripley’s Believe It or Not.
This beige colored frock encrusted with 2,500 rhinestones that originally cost $12,000 is one of the most famous personal outfits ever worn. It was designed by Jean Louis, a Hollywood costume designer and it originally sold for $1.27 million in 1999 at a Christie’s auction, thus making it the most expensive piece of personal clothing ever to be sold at auction last time it was sold as well. Movie costumes have fetched much larger prices though.
The stories about having to sew Marilyn into the dress because it was so form-fitting may have added to the public’s interest. Of course the fact that both she and JFK tragically died soon after this event also may add to the appeal.
Darren Julien, President and CEO of Julien’s Auctions wrote in a statement posted by CNN, "Tonight was one of the most important moments in our history as a company. We were incredibly privileged to have had the opportunity to offer this amazing dress from the most legendary screen star of all time."
Other personal items from her including a used tube of Revlon lipstick were also sold.
Ripley’s Believe It or Not has not yet stated exactly what they will do with the dress.