How to Channel Your Inner Brigitte Bardot: The Ultimate Guide to 60s French Chic
When we think of French Riviera glamour, one name immediately comes to mind: Brigitte Bardot. The "Sex Kitten" of the 1960s didn't just follow trends; she created a blueprint for style that remains timeless. Her look is the perfect mix of messy, rebellious, and incredibly feminine.
If you want to master that je ne sais quoi, here is how to achieve the iconic B.B. look today.
1. The Wardrobe: Effortless Elegance
Bardot’s style was never about looking "overdone." It was about comfort meeting sensuality.
• The Bardot Neckline: Named after her, this off-the-shoulder cut highlights the collarbones and shoulders. It’s flirtatious yet sophisticated.
• Gingham Prints (Vichy): Brigitte famously wore a pink gingham dress to her wedding. Incorporate check patterns in trousers, skirts, or sundresses for a playful, retro vibe.
• The Breton Stripe: A French staple. Pair a striped Marinière top with high-waisted cigarette pants or denim shorts.
• Ballet Flats: She helped make Repetto famous. Skip the heels and opt for elegant leather flats for that "girl-on-the-go" feel.
2. The Makeup: The Smoldering "Bedroom" Eyes
The key to Bardot’s makeup is focus: heavy on the eyes, soft on the lips.
The Signature Cat-Eye
Forget the precise, sharp wings of today. Bardot’s liner was thick, smoky, and slightly lived-in.
1. Use a soft black kohl pencil to line both top and bottom lashes.
2. Smudge the edges slightly with a brush to give it a "slept-in" sultry look.
3. Apply layers of volumizing black mascara.
The Nude Pout
To balance the heavy eyes, keep the lips muted.
• Use a matte nude or pale pink lipstick.
• Overline the "cupid's bow" slightly with a lip liner that matches your natural lip color to get her famous soft, pillowy pout.
3. The Hair: Volume and Texture
You can't have the Bardot look without the "Choucroute" (sauerkraut) hairstyle—a messy, voluminous beehive.
• The Fringe: Long, "curtain bangs" that part in the middle and frame the face.
• Texture is Everything: Use dry shampoo or sea salt spray. It shouldn't look too neat.
• The Accessory: A wide fabric headband or a simple black ribbon tied in a bow can instantly transform your hairstyle.
Style Tip:
The most important accessory Brigitte ever wore was her confidence. The look works best when you feel comfortable in your own skin. Keep it messy, keep it simple, and don't be afraid to let a few strands of hair fall out of place.
