Renowned Makeup Artist, Marilyn Irvine, Passes Away at the Age of 99
Early Life and Career
Toward the end of World War II, Marilyn Irvine, a talented British makeup artist, met a naval officer during his leave at Delmonico’s restaurant. They tied the knot in 1947 and were blessed with two children, a daughter named Sullivan and a son who prefers to remain anonymous. Unfortunately, Marilyn’s husband passed away in 1994.
After giving birth to her daughter in 1957, Marilyn decided to leave her job at Elizabeth Arden and pursue a freelance career as a makeup artist. She worked with renowned photographers such as Mr. Avedon, Irving Penn, John Rawlings, and Harold Krieger. Marilyn’s exceptional skills also led her to work on commercial projects, including applying layers of green greasepaint to the actors playing the Jolly Green Giant, the iconic mascot for canned vegetables.
In the late 1960s, Marilyn and her family moved from Queens to Essex County, New Jersey. Her husband, who worked as a general counsel for a security firm, encouraged her to retire from her profession. However, it was during this period that Marilyn decided to learn how to drive at the age of 44.
A Passion for Makeup and a Quiet Retirement
Once Marilyn left the fashion world behind, she rarely spoke about her illustrious career. She embraced her retirement and focused on enjoying her life with her family.
Marilyn’s expertise in makeup artistry caught the attention of many, including TikTok star, Ms. Parsons. Ms. Parsons had numerous unanswered questions for Marilyn, hoping to uncover the hidden details surrounding Marilyn Monroe’s makeup. One particular artifact, a tissue used to blot Marilyn Monroe’s lips, is now on display at the Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! Museum in Orlando, Florida. Additionally, Ms. Parsons won a gold lipstick tube that once belonged to Marilyn Monroe at an auction for an astounding $15,625.
Reflecting on her life, Marilyn expressed her satisfaction with the recognition she received, though she wished it had come at a time when she had more energy to pursue it further. Despite this, Marilyn’s daughter, Sullivan, reassured her that what truly mattered was that she had made a significant impact in the world of makeup artistry. Sullivan described her mother as an original and one-of-a-kind artist who created countless beautiful images alongside pioneering photographers of the 20th century.
Marilyn Irvine’s journey from attending a one-room schoolhouse to becoming a TikTok star at the age of 99 was truly extraordinary. Her legacy will continue to inspire and influence future generations of makeup artists.
Farewell to a Legendary Makeup Artist
Today, we bid farewell to Marilyn Irvine, an exceptional makeup artist whose talent and creativity left an indelible mark on the world of fashion and photography. While the cause of her passing remains unknown, her contributions to the industry will forever be remembered. Marilyn’s family, friends, and fans mourn the loss of a remarkable individual, but take solace in the fact that her legacy lives on through her incredible body of work.
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