Blake Lively pretends to be Marilyn Monroe when she walks the red carpet to help radiate an "incredible aura of self-confidence".

The stunning star is hailed as a style icon and regularly steps out looking perfectly preened. However, Blake gets negative thoughts before stepping out at a big event and uses the confident attitudes of old screen icons to tackle her anxieties.

"I have insecurities like any girl. I used to be really shy and unconfident. I hated being tall. Walking the red carpet is so scary, so I pretend to be Marilyn Monroe - someone who owned their sexuality and projected this incredible aura of self-confidence," she revealed to British magazine more!

Blake is famed for her role as stylish Serena Celia van der Woodsen in hit drama series Gossip Girl. The 24-year-old star feels she has to show off her fashion credentials in real life too.

"There's a lot of pressure to constantly find the best designer outfits. As a teenager, my mum was constantly after me to dress better. She encouraged me to dress up and discover my own style," she explained.

"I love fashion and shopping though, just like any girl."

Blake boasts an enviably slim frame. However, the blonde beauty doesn't spend hours in the gym toning up.

"I don't exercise, but I will start one day. I'm 24 now, so I guess I've been very, very lucky that it doesn't show that I like to eat. I should probably start working out I guess!" she laughed.