Brigitte Bardot passed away at 91 at her Saint-Tropez home on 28/12. French President Emmanuel Macron noted on X that Bardot embodied a free life, becoming a legend of the century. Her film works, captivating voice, and deep love for animals resonated with audiences.

Born in France in 1934, Bardot emerged as one of the most iconic faces, models, and actresses of the 1950s and 1960s. She earned recognition as a screen siren and an enduring fashion icon, serving as a muse for designers such as: Dior, Balmain, and Pierre Cardin.

Fashion critic Isabella Biedenharn of Elle magazine noted Bardot inspired millions of women globally with her bouffant hair and bold eyeliner. Her signature pose, featuring crossed legs in tights and arms folded across her chest – famously known as the "Bardot Pose" – was widely imitated by celebrities such as: Gisele Bündchen, Lindsay Lohan, Elle Macpherson, and Rihanna.

During the 1950s, the film star frequently wore off-the-shoulder tops with wide necklines, popularizing them to the extent they became known as the Bardot neckline. She also incorporated this style into sweaters, dresses, and knit jackets. Photo: Harper's Bazaar

Brigitte Bardot also played a role in making the bikini a widespread trend. In 1953, at just 18, Bardot created a sensation when she posed for photographs on Cannes beach in a tropical print bikini. Vogue reported that sailors lined the walkways to catch a glimpse of the actress.

At a time when bikinis were not yet widely accepted globally, including in the US, the photograph created a powerful impact. What was once considered a provocative design transformed into an item adored by women. This moment also established the tradition of Hollywood stars posing as "beach beauties" during visits to the Cannes coast. Photo: AFP

One item that defined Bardot's style was super-short hot pants. She often paired them with corsets for strolls, travel, or relaxing in her garden. This hot pant trend has resurfaced in the last two years, championed by major fashion houses such as: Gucci and Prada. Photo: Pinterest

Bardot also contributed to the bohemian style's popularity in the 1960s, establishing it as a classic look. While it may be selective for wearers, bohemian remains a distinctive fashion culture, favored by those who appreciate a style with depth. Photo: Pinterest

Bardot's style also included gingham dresses, embodying a country aesthetic. In the 1950s, upon marrying actor Jacques Charrier, she wore a pink and white gingham dress, a pattern she continued to embrace for many years. This print evokes the rustic charm of rugs and tablecloths often used by farmers for dining or picnics in gardens and fields. Photo: Pinterest

Originating from the shirts of French sailors and maritime workers, the Breton top (horizontal stripes) transformed into a timeless classic, thanks to Hollywood's influence. While popular in the 1940s, Brigitte Bardot was among its most prominent wearers. Photo: Pinterest

Brigitte Bardot wore ballet flats throughout the 1960s, establishing them as her characteristic shoe style. These flats have seen a resurgence in recent years, appearing with various updates such as: embellishments, bows, and criss-cross straps. Photo: AFP

Straw hats and bags, now prevalent in fashion, were successfully championed by Bardot and Jane Birkin in earlier times. When paired with contemporary attire, these straw accessories enable fashion icons to showcase their creativity and unique allure. Photo: Alamy

Brigitte Bardot frequently enhanced her appearance with long necklaces, worn either individually or layered. This layering style has been widely adopted from the 1980s to the present day. Photo: Pinterest

In earlier times, Brigitte Bardot favored low-heeled, knee-high boots that closely hugged the leg. Today, this design remains a popular item, chosen by many women for its figure-flattering appeal. Photo: Pinterest

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