Ingrid Bergman was the embodiment of natural beauty, understated elegance, and timeless fashion. Unlike many of her Hollywood contemporaries, Bergman’s style was refreshingly simple, sophisticated, and effortlessly chic. From her sharp tailoring in Casablanca to her relaxed European-inspired looks, her fashion choices emphasised clean lines, neutral tones, and classic silhouettes.
If you want to channel Ingrid Bergman’s refined yet effortless style, this guide will show you how to master her fashion, hair, makeup, and accessories.
Key Fashion Elements
Menswear Inspired Tailoring
Bergman was a pioneer in masculine-meets-feminine dressing, often wearing structured blazers, wide-leg trousers, and crisp shirts.
How to Wear it Today:
- Invest in a tailored blazer in neutral tones (black, grey, navy, or beige).
- Pair high-waisted trousers with a button-down shirt or light knit sweater.
- Choose wool, tweed, or linen fabric for a vintage chic feel.
- Roll up your sleeves for a nonchalant, effortless look.
Trench Coats and Classic Outerwear
Bergman’s role in Casablanca solidified her love for trench coats, which became one of her signature looks.
How to Wear it Today:
- Look for a structured trench coat with a belted waist for a flattering fit.
- Opt for camel, beige, or khaki tones for a timeless, vintage look.
- Pair with tailored trousers or a flow midi skirt for a balanced silhouette.
Effortlessly Elegant Dresses and Skirts
While Bergman embraced menswear, she also loved feminine yet understated dresses, often in simple cuts and soft fabrics.
How to Wear it Today:
- Choose wrap dresses, shirt dresses, or a-line midi dresses for a soft, elegant feel.
- Stick to muted colours like cream, navy, and earthy tones.
- Look for delicate details like lace collars or soft pleats to complete the Ingrid Bergman look.
Casual European Chic
Bergman had an innate ability to make casual dressing feel sophisticated, often wearing knitted sweaters, loose trousers, and elegant flats.
How to Wear it Today:
- Opt for lightweight sweaters or turtlenecks, tucked into trousers for a polished feel.
- Choose breathable linen blouses and simple skirts for effortless daywear.
- Stick to minimal accessories and classic leather shoes for an elegant finish.
Timeless, classic footwear
Ingrid Bergman’s shoe choices were always practical and chichi favouring low-heeled pumps, loafers, and elegant flats.
How to Wear it Today:
- Choose leather loafers, ballet flats, or oxford brogues for a vintage touch.
- For a dressier option, go for classic rounded-toe pumps in a neutral shade.
- Avoid overly embellished shoes – Bergman’s style was about timeless simplicity.
Accessories & Styling Tips
Silk Scarves & Headbands
Bergman often accessorised with silk scarves, either tied around her head, neck or handbag.
How to Wear it Today:
- Wear a printed silk scarf around your neck for a classic vintage touch.
- Use a headscarf or headband to style your hair effortlessly.
- Tie a scarf on to your handbag for subtle elegance.
Minimal Jewellery
Unlike many Hollywood stars of her time, Bergman’s jewellery was understated and delicate.
How to Wear it Today:
- Choose simple pearl or diamond stud earrings.
- Wear a delicate gold or silver chain with a minimal pendant.
- Avoid flashy or oversized jewellery – Bergman’s elegance was in her simplicity.
Classic Leather Handbags
Bergman’s choice of handbag was structured and understated, always practical and chic.
How to Wear it Today:
- Choose a structured leather handbag in brown, black, or beige.
- Opt for medium-sized bags, not oversized but large enough to carry your essentials.
- Look for vintage inspired top-handle bags for an authentic vintage touch.
Hair and Makeup
The Natural Ingrid Bergman Hairstyle
Unlike the heavily sculpted curls of 1940s Hollywood, Bergman’s hair was soft, natural, and slightly undone, reflecting her effortless charm.
How to Get her Hair Look:
- If you have shorter hair, style it in soft curls with a side part, brushing out for a natural effect.
- If you have longer hair, try a low bun or chignon, keeping it simple and elegant.
- Use a light hold mousse or styling cream to enhance natural waves without stiffness.
Fresh Complexion
Bergman’s beauty was celebrated for being natural and radiant, with minimal makeup and glowing skin.
How to Get her Skin Look:
- Use a lightweight foundation or tinted moisturiser to keep the skin looking fresh.
- Apply a soft pink or peach blush for a natural flush.
- Keep skin hydrated and luminous with a dewy setting spray or light powder only in key areas.
Soft & Defined Eyes
Bergman’s eyes were expressive and full of warmth, often enhanced with simple definition rather than dramatic liner.
How to Get her Eye Look:
- Use neutral matte eyeshadows in taupe, beige, or warm brown to add soft depth.
- Apply a light coat of mascara to open up the eyes without looking too heavy.
- Skip the dramatic eyeliner – if needed, apply a thin brown or grey pencil liner and smudge it for a soft finish.
Muted, Natural Lips
Unlike the bold reds of the 1940s, Bergman often wore soft pinks, nudes, and peachy tones on her lips.
How to Get her Lip Look:
- Choose satin or matte lipstick in a rosy pink, peach, or muted coral shade.
- Apply lipstick with your fingertips for a more natural effect.
- Skip the ultra-glossy finishes – Bergman’s lips always looked soft and refined.
The Ingrid Bergman Mindset
Ingrid Bergman’s style was about effortless beauty, quiet confidence, and timeless sophistication. She proved that less is more, embracing classic pieces, minimal makeup, and refined tailoring.
By focusing on clean lines, structured silhouettes, and a neutral colour palette, you can bring a touch of Ingrid Bergman’s Old Hollywood grace into your modern wardrobe.