Marilyn Monroe is a costume carried far more by hair and makeup than by any one dress. Short platinum curls, softly arched brows, winged liner, a red lip and the beauty mark will make a thrifted outfit read as Marilyn, and without them even a perfect white halter dress looks like a nice summer frock. That opens up much more than the famous white dress. Below are the big movie gowns, sparkling performance looks, casual off-screen outfits and easy closet versions, from the pleated white halter and the shocking-pink gown to her Western clothes, tailored suits and plain turtlenecks. I've grouped the glamorous, modest, casual and last-minute options so you can pick by the night you're actually having.
Setting the Short Platinum Curls
Every one of these costumes uses the same hair, so it's worth getting right once. Her look was short, about chin to jaw length, with rounded curls, lift at the crown and a soft side part. Many costume wigs come too long or too flat, and a little work makes a big difference.
- Choose a heat-resistant synthetic wig if you can, so you can reshape it with a cool or low setting tool.
- Wear a snug wig cap and pin your own hair flat underneath, especially long or dark hair that might show at the nape.
- Brush the curls out gently with your fingers, then re-form them around a finger or a large roller and pin until set.
- Lift the crown with a little backcombing and smooth the top layer over it.
- Set with a light hold spray. Heavy spray makes synthetic curls look wet and stiff.
The Face That Goes With It
This is everyday makeup with a fifties shape, not stage paint. A smooth, luminous base, softly arched brows, black winged liner with a fine flick, and lashes on the outer corners give the eyes. Red lipstick is the anchor; line the lips first and blot once so it lasts. The beauty mark sits on the left cheek, a little below and to the side of the eye, and a soft brown pencil looks more natural than black. Try any new product on the inside of your wrist a day before, and set the base with a little powder so it doesn't melt in a warm room.
1. Marilyn Monroe White Halter Dress Costume
The white halter from The Seven Year Itch is the one everybody knows, so it needs no explanation at the door. Look for a halter dress with a fitted waist and a softly pleated midi skirt. The original had a deep halter neckline and a skirt that billowed, which is exactly why I'd choose a lined version with a little weight in the hem; light, unlined pleats fly up in any breeze or air vent. Nude pumps, pearl studs and a short curled platinum wig finish the clothes. Black winged liner, defined brows, peach blush and a classic red lip do the rest. A white scarf or a grate-patterned floor mat makes a cheeky photo prop.
2. Marilyn Monroe Pink Satin Dress Costume
The shocking-pink column gown from the "Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend" number is the most glamorous option here, and still one of the most copied. A strapless pink satin maxi, matching opera gloves and pointed pink pumps form the base. Pile on the costume jewellery: a rhinestone choker, an oversized bracelet over the glove, drop earrings and rings. Strapless gowns are only fun if they stay put, so I'd wear a supportive strapless layer underneath and a strip of fashion tape at the top edge. The short platinum wig wants smooth vintage curls with a deep side part. Luminous skin, winged liner and a red-pink lip finish it, with a rhinestone bag or giant faux gem in hand.
3. Marilyn Monroe Gold Lamé Dress Costume
A gold pleated gown is the most dramatic Marilyn look you can wear. Look for a gold halter maxi with a deep V neck, fitted waist and sunburst pleats; if you can't find one, a gold halter bodysuit with a long pleated skirt in the same shade does the job. Metallic fabrics show every wrinkle under party lights, so steam it on a low setting and hang it the day before. Metallic ankle-strap heels, crystal earrings and a slim gold cuff are enough jewellery, since the fabric already does the shouting. Soft chin-length platinum curls, red lipstick, fluttery lashes and the beauty mark finish it. Wear a lined or layered dress under that neckline.
4. Marilyn Monroe Red Sequin Showgirl Costume
The red sequin showgirl look comes from the opening number of Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, and it suits anyone who wants to be the brightest person in the room. Choose a long red sequin gown with long sleeves and a slit you can walk in, or add red opera gloves to a short-sleeved one. A small red feather headpiece or a pillbox-style hat adds theatre without much weight. Red or metallic pumps, crystal earrings and the curled platinum wig follow. Sequins scratch the inner arm on a long night, so I'd look for a dress with a soft lining. Sewn sequins or metallic fabric beat loose craft glitter, which ends up on every guest. A vintage microphone prop is all you need to carry.
5. Marilyn Monroe Orange Evening Gown Costume
The sleek orange dinner gown is a less obvious Gentlemen Prefer Blondes pick, and it's a nice choice for anyone who suits warm colours better than pink. Start with a fitted orange or burnt-coral maxi with a dramatic neckline and narrow skirt. Coordinating evening gloves, crystal drop earrings and orange or gold pumps follow. A dark faux-fur or velvet stole gives contrast and warmth. Wear the platinum curls tucked close around the face. Coral lipstick looks more deliberate with this dress than a blue-red, which can clash with orange. A small black evening bag or fan is the prop, and keep the hem just clear of the floor so you don't step on it.
6. Marilyn Monroe Black Cocktail Dress Costume
A black cocktail dress is the easiest Marilyn to source, and you may already own one. A 1950s-style sheath with a sweetheart, square or soft scoop neckline and a knee-length hem is ideal. I check the waist first: a narrow black belt pulls a loose sheath into that hourglass line, and the line is half of the period look. Sheer neutral stockings, pointed black pumps, pearl earrings, a sparkly brooch and a satin clutch finish the clothes. The platinum wig needs short brushed curls with plenty of front volume. Matte red lipstick, arched brows and a precise beauty mark carry the reference. It works for office parties where a gown would feel like too much.
7. Marilyn Monroe Niagara Pink Dress Costume
The vivid pink dress from Niagara gives you bold colour in a simple shape. A hot-pink midi with a fitted bodice, defined waist and pencil skirt is the target, with a matching cropped jacket if you want more coverage. Pencil skirts restrict your stride, so check there's a kick pleat or small vent before you buy. Neutral peep-toe heels, small gold earrings and a compact handbag go with it. Here the wig should be smooth, sculpted curls rather than loose waves. Deep rose-red lipstick, black mascara and lightly flushed cheeks suit the dress. An old-style room key or travel brochure nods to the film's hotel setting.
8. Marilyn Monroe Niagara Red Dress Costume
Red and black fits the darker mood of Niagara. Choose a fitted red wrap, wiggle or belted pencil dress with a modest neckline and enough skirt to walk in. Black peep-toe pumps, sheer stockings, a structured black bag and simple gold earrings follow, with a light black shawl for cooler nights. The short platinum wig is set in neat separate curls with a swept front. A softly matte base, defined lashes, red lipstick and the beauty mark finish the face. I'd match the lipstick to the dress in daylight before the party, because a red lip that's slightly off from a red dress looks like a mistake. A postcard or small camera makes an easy tourist prop.
9. Marilyn Monroe Glasses And Skirt Suit Costume
Pola from How to Marry a Millionaire gives you a funny costume built around cat-eye glasses. A navy or charcoal fitted jacket with a matching knee-length pencil skirt over a light satin blouse is the base, with a small beret, short gloves, neutral stockings and black pumps. The glasses are the punchline, since much of her comedy comes from refusing to wear them; choose non-prescription lenses so you can see. Style the platinum curls tidily under the beret, with red lipstick and soft winged liner. Hold a book upside down as a prop and most people will get the joke. It's modest enough for offices and classrooms.
10. Marilyn Monroe Emerald Green Dress Costume
Dark emerald is a richer alternative to the brighter Marilyn colours, and it's linked to one of Pola's polished outfits in How to Marry a Millionaire. Choose a fitted midi with a belted waist, a structured neckline and a pleated side panel or short overskirt. Black pumps, sheer stockings, crystal earrings and a small black clutch go with it. A narrow velvet belt sharpens the period waist, and cat-eye glasses tie it to the character. Emerald is kind to most skin tones and hides creases better than pale satin after hours of sitting. Rounded platinum curls, winged liner, defined brows and warm red lipstick finish it, with a vintage compact as the prop.
11. Marilyn Monroe Purple Evening Dress Costume
Purple gives you a formal Marilyn that no one else at the party will be wearing. Pick a plum, violet or jewel-toned evening gown at ankle or floor length with a fitted waist, draped neckline and a skirt that moves. A silver-gray faux-fur stole, rhinestone earrings, elbow gloves and metallic pumps add the old-Hollywood finish. Faux fur sheds onto dark fabric, so give the stole a good shake outdoors and a lint roll before you put it on. Shape the short platinum wig into soft curls that frame the forehead. Berry-red lipstick, fine liner and a little lid shimmer suit the colour. Carry cat-eye glasses in one hand as a nod to Pola.
12. Marilyn Monroe Black Sequin Dress Costume
For a Some Like It Hot Sugar Kane, a fitted black sequin cocktail dress is the cleanest route. Sheer-looking panels need an opaque lining behind them, and a sweetheart neck, knee-length skirt and a little scattered fringe capture her stage look. Black pumps, crystal drops and stacked sparkly bracelets go with it. The platinum wig is tousled and close-cropped with a deep side part. Glossy red lipstick, curled lashes and luminous cheekbones give stage-ready makeup without heavy contour. A vintage microphone prop or a small instrument-shaped purse points to her role as a singer in an all-woman band. Skin-safe fashion tape keeps the neckline in place.
13. Marilyn Monroe Silver Fringe Dress Costume
A silver fringe dress moves every time you do, which suits a Sugar Kane who plans to dance. Start with a modest silver or champagne flapper-style dress with rows of fringe, sequins or bugle beads, and add a fitted slip if the outer layer is sheer. Cheap fringe tangles and sheds, so shake the dress out and check the rows are sewn on tightly before you commit. Metallic low heels you can dance in, rhinestone earrings and a slim bracelet keep it light. The platinum wig goes into fluffy short curls with a silver clip. Red lipstick, softly smoked liner and highlighted cheeks finish the face. A light ukulele prop or microphone sets the musical scene.
14. Marilyn Monroe Champagne Beaded Gown Costume
A champagne beaded gown gives a softer take on Sugar Kane's stage wardrobe. Choose a lined maxi or midi in pale nude, blush or champagne with crystal embellishment and a little fringe. I'd pick a lining a shade different from your own skin, not an exact match, so the dress reads as deliberate rather than see-through. Gold peep-toe shoes, rhinestone earrings and a delicate bracelet follow. Because the dress is neutral, the short tousled platinum wig, red lip, black liner and beauty mark do the work of saying Marilyn. A vintage microphone or small instrument case makes the prop. Keep jewellery fine so it doesn't fight the beadwork.
15. Marilyn Monroe Green Bus Stop Costume
Chérie in Bus Stop wore a jade-green satin showgirl costume with dark sequins and gold fringe, and you can build a practical version from dancewear. A lined green dance leotard over opaque tights is the base, with a short wrap skirt or a firmly attached fringe panel for coverage. Dark elbow gloves, gold character shoes, sparkling earrings and a small green hair piece follow. Her stage look is deliberately less polished, so set the platinum curls slightly messy. Softened red lipstick, winged liner and rosy blush suit her. A microphone prop sets the scene. Sew every sequin and fringe section; glue lets go once you start moving.
16. Marilyn Monroe Blue Bus Stop Dress Costume
Chérie's quieter Bus Stop wardrobe makes a simple blue dress costume. A dusty-blue or pale denim-coloured midi with a defined waist, short sleeves and a softly flared skirt gives a wearable 1950s base, with a cream cardigan or light tan coat for cold October evenings. Low brown pumps, a small overnight bag and plain studs keep it understated. Wear the platinum wig in loose, imperfect curls rather than sculpted glamour waves, which suits the character. Rose lipstick, mascara, peach blush and the beauty mark keep it recognisably Marilyn. A paper bus ticket or travel tag is the prop. I'd choose this one for a cold outdoor night over any of the gowns.
17. Marilyn Monroe River Of No Return Western Costume
River of No Return gives Marilyn a Western twist. A fitted red or rust button-front blouse tucked into a high-waisted dark midi skirt, a wide belt, brown ankle boots and a cropped suede-look vest form the outfit. A light neck scarf and small hoops add detail. Pin one side of the platinum curls back so the wig stays put under an optional neutral cowboy hat; hats push wigs backward, so a couple of pins through the wig cap at the temples help. Red lipstick, brown liner and warm blush suit the outdoors look. Carry a coil of decorative rope or a rolled map, never a realistic weapon. Boots and layers make this a good pick for outdoor events.
18. Marilyn Monroe Red Saloon Dress Costume
The red saloon dress is the showier side of River of No Return. Choose a family-friendly off-the-shoulder or sweetheart midi with a fitted bodice, full skirt and black trim, with an opaque underskirt beneath. Off-the-shoulder necklines slide down when you lift your arms, so I'd add clear elastic inside the neckline or choose one with a little stretch. Short lace gloves, black character heels, a velvet ribbon choker and a small feather clip in the hair finish it. Side-parted curled waves, red lipstick, black liner, peach blush and the beauty mark do the face. A hand fan or microphone makes the prop. Mid-calf hems and block heels keep you steady.
19. Marilyn Monroe White Shirt And Jeans Costume
Her relaxed wardrobe can be just as clear as the gowns once the hair and makeup are right. For a The Misfits look, tuck a crisp white button-up shirt into high-waisted straight-leg blue jeans. Roll the sleeves neatly, leave the collar open and add a medium-brown leather-look belt. Brown cowboy boots and a light denim jacket keep you warm, and the white shirt, jeans and Western boots are the trio people associate with the film. Wear the platinum wig in loose, wind-touched curls. A natural base, mascara, rose-red lipstick and a small beauty mark finish it. A folded map or neutral cowboy hat is enough of a prop.
20. Marilyn Monroe Denim Jacket Western Costume
Adding a denim jacket and scarf turns the plain Misfits look into something sturdier for an outdoor night. A fitted white blouse, high-waisted indigo jeans and a faded denim jacket form the base, with low-heel brown Western boots, a leather-look belt and a small silk scarf in red or cream at the neck. Two shades of denim look intentional; two near-identical ones look accidental, so make the jacket clearly lighter than the jeans. Small studs suit it better than formal sparkle. Softly tousled platinum curls, natural brows, warm blush and a muted red lip finish the face. A canvas bag or paper map completes the travel feel.
21. Marilyn Monroe Black Sweater Performance Costume
A black sweater with high-waisted trousers makes a sleek Marilyn that works for a last-minute party. Choose a soft black boat-neck or turtleneck, then black cigarette trousers or a knee-length pencil skirt. Low black pumps, pearl earrings and a narrow belt follow. For a stage-ready version, pin a rhinestone brooch near the neckline and carry a vintage microphone. A monochrome outfit puts all the attention on the hair and face, so this is the version where the wig styling matters most: fluffy side-parted curls with front volume. Red lipstick, soft winged liner, a touch of blush and the beauty mark finish it. Stretch fabrics and supportive shoes help if you'll be standing all night.
22. Marilyn Monroe Lavender Midi Dress Costume
Lavender isn't tied to one famous movie dress, which is part of its charm. Look for a fit-and-flare midi with a fitted bodice, defined waist and full skirt, plus a matching narrow belt, short white gloves, pearl earrings and silver or cream pumps. A small structured handbag gives a polished daytime feel. Curl the platinum wig into rounded side-parted waves and pin it well at the nape. Rosy lipstick, black liner and softly filled brows suit the pastel. Cat-eye sunglasses or a vintage powder compact makes the prop. A petticoat adds lift, though I'd keep it light for crowded rooms, since a stiff one takes up a surprising amount of space.
23. Marilyn Monroe White Royal Gown Costume
The Prince and the Showgirl calls for a white gown with a formal feel. A floor-length dress with a fitted waist, off-the-shoulder neckline and subtle beading or embroidery is the base. A faux jewelled brooch at the waist makes an inexpensive gown look ceremonial. Long white gloves, crystal drops, a sparkly bracelet and silver pumps follow. Keep the short platinum curls smooth and close to the head. Precise red lipstick, winged liner and the beauty mark finish the face. Skip the crown; it pulls the costume toward princess and away from Marilyn. White fabric picks up every mark, so carry a stain wipe and choose a gown with no train or a very short one.
24. Marilyn Monroe Black Royal Evening Costume
A black off-the-shoulder gown gives a darker take on The Prince and the Showgirl. A fitted bodice with an ankle-length full skirt creates the mid-century shape and moves more easily than a train. Elbow-length black gloves, a rhinestone necklace, crystal earrings and pointed black pumps follow. A deep red velvet-look stole adds colour and warmth across the shoulders. Set the platinum wig in controlled curls with a lifted front wave. Red lipstick, liquid liner, defined lashes and luminous foundation finish the face. I'd choose costume jewellery with smooth settings, because rough claws snag gloves and fine fabric. A fan or small black bag is the only prop needed.
25. Marilyn Monroe Red Show Business Gown Costume
The red performance gown from There's No Business Like Show Business is bold and theatrical. Choose a lined red sequin maxi with a fitted waist and a skirt that moves, then add matching gloves, red character heels, crystal earrings and a structured red hair ornament. Place the ornament to one side so the platinum curls still show around it. Bright red lipstick, precise liner and full lashes suit the stage mood. A retro microphone or music-themed clutch is the prop. If a floor-length gown isn't practical, a red sequin midi with a chiffon overskirt gives a similar effect. Adjust the neckline and slit before the night, not in the bathroom at the party.
26. Marilyn Monroe White Feather Showgirl Costume
White feathers bring out her extravagant musical-film side. Start with a lined white satin midi or a modest fitted jumpsuit, then add a removable feather-trimmed wrap at the shoulders. White or silver character heels, sparkly earrings and short satin gloves follow. Keep the hair feather small, a single clip rather than a big plume, so you don't block anyone's view. Lifted platinum curls, red lipstick, long lashes and a glowing base finish it. Mixing bright white with ivory looks dingy side by side, so check every white piece together in daylight. Feather boas shed, so shake the wrap outdoors before wearing. A microphone prop or star clutch sets the stage.
27. Marilyn Monroe Sparkling Performance Gown Costume
The sparkling illusion gown is famous, but for a party I'd build a fully lined, modest version. Choose a champagne, pale blush or beige maxi covered in rhinestones or sequins, with a fabric that contrasts slightly with your skin and opaque lining from neckline to hem. Neutral pointed pumps, crystal earrings and one bracelet are enough. Wear the platinum wig in short, softly tousled curls, with your own hair pinned flat underneath. Red lipstick, winged liner, luminous foundation and the beauty mark finish the face. A vintage microphone is the only prop. Stretch lining and sewn embellishments make it comfortable for hours.
28. Marilyn Monroe Gold Premiere Dress Costume
Her fitted gold lamé gown is one of the looks most tied to her public image, and it makes a dramatic premiere-night costume. Find a metallic gold maxi with sunray pleating, a fitted waist and a deep but secure halter neckline, or attach a pleated gold overskirt to a lined metallic bodysuit. Gold pumps, crystal drops and a narrow cuff follow. I'd skip a necklace entirely, since the neckline and fabric already carry the look. Compact polished platinum curls, red lipstick, black liner and highlighted cheekbones finish it. A small gold clutch or a mock premiere invitation is a fun prop. Fashion tape and a soft lining keep the halter where it belongs.
29. Marilyn Monroe Black Turtleneck And White Pants Costume
A fitted black turtleneck with high-waisted white ankle trousers is one of her best-known casual looks, and her off-screen wardrobe leaned on simple slacks and knits like these. Add black ballet flats or low loafers, cat-eye sunglasses and small hoops or pearls. A narrow black belt sharpens the waist. White trousers are the tricky part: buy opaque ones and wear smooth nude underwear, or the outfit looks unfinished in photos. Relaxed platinum curls, red lipstick, defined lashes, peach blush and the beauty mark finish the face. A paperback or vintage camera is a low-key prop. It's the version I'd suggest for a busy night out.
30. Marilyn Monroe White Shirt And Black Capri Costume
A tied white shirt with high-waisted black capris gives a clean monochrome Marilyn. Roll the sleeves to the elbows and knot the shirt at the natural waist, with a fitted tank underneath so the knot never gapes. Black ballet flats, cat-eye sunglasses, pearl studs and a slim belt follow, and a red neck scarf adds one bright vintage accent. Relaxed platinum curls suit it better than sculpted waves. Mascara, soft winged liner, red lipstick and the beauty mark finish the face. A book, compact camera or rolled script makes the prop. Swap the capris for wide-leg cropped trousers or loafers if they suit you better; the silhouette holds.
31. Marilyn Monroe Striped Top And Shorts Costume
Stripes and shorts make a light, warm-weather Marilyn. A fitted striped boat-neck top in navy-and-white or red-and-white goes with high-waisted tailored shorts, a wide coordinating belt and canvas flats or low espadrilles. Tie a silk scarf at the neck or over the hair, and add white cat-eye sunglasses. If the scarf goes on the head, leave the curls at the front showing; a scarf that covers the whole wig hides the one thing that says Marilyn. Red lipstick, winged liner, rosy cheeks and the beauty mark finish the face. A small woven bag or camera is the prop, and high-waisted cropped trousers work if you'd rather not wear shorts.
32. Marilyn Monroe Red Polka Dot Dress Costume
A red-and-white polka dot dress gives a cheerful 1950s Marilyn without copying one gown. Choose a fit-and-flare midi with a sweetheart or halter neck, fitted waist and full skirt, then add a white belt, white pumps, short gloves and pearl earrings. Dot size matters more than you'd think: medium dots read as fifties from across a room, while tiny dots look like a modern day dress. A soft petticoat adds shape but should still let you sit. Bouncy side-parted curls, a red lip matched to the dress, winged liner, blush and the beauty mark finish it. A white handbag or compact is the prop, and a cardigan or sleeves add warmth.
33. Marilyn Monroe Striped One-Piece Swimsuit Costume
A retro striped one-piece makes a pinup-style Marilyn for pool parties and warm climates. Choose a structured suit with wide straps, a secure neckline and low-cut legs, then layer opaque black shorts or a short wrap skirt over it for public wear. Wedge sandals, cat-eye sunglasses, hoops and a wide-brim hat follow. A wide brim can flatten the curls, so set the wig with extra hold or tie a printed scarf under the hat. Long-wear red lipstick, defined lashes and cream blush finish the face. A striped beach bag or folded towel is the prop. A fitted striped romper gives the same effect where swimwear isn't appropriate.
34. Marilyn Monroe Baseball Costume
Marilyn glamour with a mid-century baseball outfit is a playful nod to her famous baseball connection. Tuck a white baseball-style shirt into a high-waisted navy circle skirt or tailored shorts, and add striped knee socks and clean white sneakers. Wear a navy cap tilted back so the platinum curls show at the front; a cap pulled straight down hides the hairline that makes the look work. Use a generic number or your own name on the shirt rather than a team logo. Red lipstick, winged liner, peach blush and the beauty mark keep the glamour, and pearl studs make a funny contrast. A soft foam ball and light glove are safe props, and the sneakers make it easy to walk.
35. Marilyn Monroe Classic Portrait Costume
A studio-portrait costume rounds things off with a black off-the-shoulder midi. Look for a fitted bodice, defined waist and softly flared skirt, then add sheer neutral stockings and black peep-toe pumps. Pearl drops, a rhinestone bracelet and a velvet choker or fine necklace finish the clothes. The platinum wig is the centre of this look, so give it glossy side-parted curls with volume at the forehead. Luminous foundation, softly arched brows, fine winged liner, red lipstick and the beauty mark make the portrait face. Hold a satin glove or vintage compact for posing. It doesn't depend on one movie, so you can reuse every piece, and a cropped cardigan adds warmth.
What Goes Under a 1950s Dress
Her silhouette depended on structure underneath, and modern dresses rarely have it built in. The right underlayers make an ordinary dress look like the period version.
- Smooth shapewear or a long-line bra. It gives the defined waist and a smooth line under satin and sequins.
- A light petticoat. It lifts any fit-and-flare skirt. Keep it soft enough to sit in comfortably.
- A slip or lining. Use one under anything sheer, beaded or pale. It also stops sequins scratching your skin.
- Fashion tape. It holds halter and strapless necklines in place, though it won't stick to damp skin, so apply it before you get warm.
- Gel heel grips and cushioned insoles. Pointed pumps and peep-toes are the shoes most likely to cut short your night.
Do a full dress rehearsal at home: wig, makeup, shoes and all. Sit, lift your arms and walk up stairs. Most fit problems show up in the first ten minutes, which gives you time to fix them before the party.
Her Hair and Lipstick Do Most of the Work
Her wardrobe was far more varied than the white halter suggests: pink and gold gowns, stage sequins, fitted fifties dresses and plain jeans with a white shirt. Whichever you pick, the wig and makeup are what make it Marilyn, so spend your time there first. Then add comfortable shoes and one clear prop. Fit and movement matter as much as accuracy; add lining, proper underlayers or a longer hem wherever you need it, and the costume will be easier to wear all night.
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