Brigitte Bardot is one of the most enduring style icons of the 20th century. Her effortlessly sexy yet playful look defined the 1950s and 1960s, blending French Riviera chic with a rebellious edge. Whether she was wearing a gingham dress or a boatneck top with capri pants, Bardot’s style remains as influential today.
Wardrobe essentials
Off the shoulder and Bardot necklines
Brigitte Bardot popularised the off-the-shoulder neckline, which is now often referred to as the Bardot neckline. This silhouette is feminine and sultry while still appearing effortless.
How to wear:
- Choose off the shoulder tops in soft fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Look for embroidery, ruffled details or lace to enhance the vintage vibe.
- Pair with high-waisted skirts, shorts or capri pants for balance.
Gingham and Flirty Dresses
Bardot often wore gingham dresses, giving her a sweet yet seductive look. This pattern, particularly in pastel tones, became a signature part of her wardrobe.
How to wear:
- Find a fit-and-flare dress in gingham for a retro summer look.
- Choose feminine cuts like wrap dresses or halter-neck styles.
- Add a wide beltat your waist to define your shape.
Capri Pants and Cigarette Trousers
Bardot was a master of casual-chic dressing, often pairing slim-fitting capri pants with simple tops. This style is perfect for a polished yet relaxed look.
How to wear:
- Look for ankle-length cigarette trousers or capri pants in black, white or navy.
- Pair with a striped Breton top or a simple fitted tee.
- Add ballet flats for a quintessential French look.
Breton Stripes and Nautical Vibes
As a staple of French fashion, Breton-stripes were one of Bardot’s go-to pieces, especially when she was vacationing in St. Tropez.
How to wear:
- Invest in a classic navy-and-white striped top with a boatneck cut.
- Pair with tailored shorts, high-waisted jeans, or a pencil skirt.
- Add a simple basket bag to complete the effortless Bardot aesthetic.
Accessories and Styling Tips
Ballet Flats
Bardot helped to popularise ballet flats, often wearing them with casual and dressy outfits.
Where to find them:
- Look for classic black or nude ballet flats.
- Brands like Repetto, Chanel, or vintage-inspired brands offer Bardot-approved styles.
Basket bags
One of Bardot’s most famous accessories was her woven basket bag, which she carried frequently in the 1960s.
Where to find them:
- Choose a straw tote bag for a French Riviera-inspired look.
- Pair it with a summer dress or casual jeans and a tee.
Silk scarves and hair accessories
Bardot often wore silk scarves tied around her head, neck, and even on her handbag.
How to wear it today:
- Tie a small scarf around your ponytail for a vintage touch.
- Wear a printed headscarf as a headband for a chic Bardot moment.
- Drape a silk scarf around your neck for Parisian flair.
Hair and Makeup Guide
The iconic Bardot hair
Brigitte Bardot’s voluminous, tousled hair became her signature. She often wore it in loose waves, half-up styles or in a messy beehive.
How to get Bardot hair:
- Use a large-barrel curling iron to create soft waves.
- Backcomb the crown of your hair to add volume and height.
- For a classic Bardot ponytail, leave some face-framing pieces loose.
- Wear a silk ribbon or headband for a vintage touch.
Doe-eyed makeup
Bardot’s makeup was all about the eyes. Soft yet sultry, with a classic winged liner gives a doe-eyed effect.
How to get Bardot eyes:
- Use a soft brown eyeshadow to add depth to the crease.
- Apply black liquid eyeliner, flicking out into a cat-eye shape.
- Coat lashes with volumising mascara or add false lashes for extra drama.
- Keep lips natural and soft with nude pink or peach lipstick.
Fresh, barely-there skin
Unlike the heavy makeup trends of the 1950s, Bardot preferred fresh and natural-looking skin.
How to get Bardot skin:
- Use a lightweight foundation or BB cream for a natural finish.
- Add a peachy or rose blush to the apples of your cheeks.
- Keep brows soft and slightly arched, not overly defined.
The Bardot mindset
Brigitte Bardot’s style was about confidence, playfulness, and effortless beauty. She blended sex appeal with nonchalance, creating a timeless French-girl aesthetic that still inspires today.
By embracing flirty silhouettes, relaxed glamour, and classic beauty, you can bring a touch of Bardot’s magic into your own wardrobe.
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