London, Jul 23 (IANS): Whenever actress Blake Lively gets self-conscious at showbiz events, she says she tries to reflect the confidence of the legendary Marilyn Monroe to survive the ordeal.

"I have insecurities like any girl. I used to be really shy and unconfident. I hated being tall. Walking the red carpet is scary, so I pretend to be Marilyn Monroe - someone who owned their sexuality and projected this incredible aura of self-confidence," femalefirst.co.uk quoted Lively as saying.

The 24-year-old prefers to stay at home rather than attending parties, and says she feels sexiest when she cooks.

"I really like to cook. Cooking makes me feel sexy. I think there's something so sensual about it - the smells, the touches, the flavours, the experience of creating something. And, you know, when you are doing it with someone you love, creating that together. I think it's really attractive," she said.

Though she can cook "a little of everything, but Italian food is my favourite. And chocolate!"