Since her premature death exactly fifty years ago today, Marilyn Monroe has been like the Bob Dylan of Hollywood: Every new starlet possessing either the curves, candor, or white-blonde locks is considered a contender to fill the void her untimely exit left behind. Few women have come close to filling Marilyn’s impossibly high heels–which were allegedly altered to create her signature sultry walk. But many have tried.

Five decades later, women wearing curled blonde coifs, full lips painted red, heavy lids, and figure hugging gowns still rule the red carpet, trying to emulate Marilyn’s bombshell look. Her sultry style has withstood fifty years of fads and fresh faces–quite a feat for anyone, let alone a comedic actress who passed away during the Kennedy administration!

So in honor of Marilyn’s life, we’ve rounded up some celebrities who took her signature look a few steps further–out of the editorial costume closet–and into the real world. From obvious copycats to more subtle homages, these ladies have helped keep Monroe’s memorable style alive in modern day.

Photos: Getty