London in your lunch break: Marilyn Monroe exhibition at the Getty Images Gallery

But the dresses and costumes worn by Monroe in her films and displayed on mannequins cut to Monroes actual size are the real highlight.

As far as the images go, some of the photographs are moments captured behind the scenes in the life of Norma Jean Mortenson (Monroes birth name), during her time in New York and California.

One of her in tears because of a wardrobe malfunction during a fitting for an event at Madison Square Garden gives a rare glimpse of her vulnerability. There are several pictures of Monroe with her third husband, the playwright Arthur Miller.

Others show Monroe at ease, with titles including Marilyn Resting and Marilyn Relaxes. But in even the most candid shots, such as one of her asleep on a chair in a New York hotel room, she exudes the charm and effortless glamour of a natural-born star.

Travel time

The gallery is just a five-minute walk from the Oxford Circus tube station. Various buses are also available on Oxford Street and Regent Street.

If you need to be back for a meeting

The exhibition is in one room and viewable in one go. But should the gallery get crowded, dont leave without a glance at Monroes original dresses, located along the left wall of the gallery upon entry. Nobody should miss the intricately sequined red dress from Gentleman Prefer Blondes, nor the over-the-top, sparkling costume from Theres No Business Like Show Business, nor as the exquisite hand-embroidery on the ivory satin couture evening gown designed by Lanvin and Castillo as a personal dress for Monroe.

Each dress shows signs of wear and tear, from missing sequins to slight colour fades and stains to nearly unnoticeable rips, all adding to the authenticity. Their figure-hugging cuts and detailed embellishments underscore Monroes status as both a fashion icon and sex symbol.

If your boss is away

The gallery is just behind Oxford Street, and a short walk from the fashionable boutiques and! departm ent stores of Oxford Street

Have a bite to eat

There is a range of options across the road from the gallery on Market Place including Subway, Bagelmania, or the Mexican grill Tortilla. For other sit-down meals, try Italian-fare at Strada or Carluccios. There is also Yo! Sushi around the corner.

The details

Getty Images Gallery
46 Eastcastle Street
London, W1W 8DX
020 7291 5380
gettyimagesgallery.com

The exhibition runs until May 23.

Opening times and costs

10am-5.30pm Monday to Friday, 12-5.30pm (Saturday); free