Did someone say ’60s volume?
Brigitte Bardot’s iconic heavy bombshell with messy hair has officially been reinterpreted for the modern era. The look was socially charged, scattered throughout pop culture, and quickly became a popular bun request in salons across the country.
Jennifer Coolidge wore the look on the red carpet at the 2023 Screen Actors Guild Awards, Daisy Jones and The Six’s Riley Keough wore a decidedly Bardot-influenced style, and even Lily Collins wore a bun. Even Lily Collins’ Emily in Paris chose a French girl on the edge for her role, reflecting the same spirit of “discretion” for which Brigitte is known.
For those unfamiliar, Bardot’s signature style is the creation of great volume in the crown, with thick layers of fringe and facial framing above the cheekbones and around the chin.
Celebrity stylist David Lopez says, “It looks very big, very thick, and has a lot of fluff.” It’s acceptable to use the word fuzzy – and it’s very textured.”
Want to try this style? We asked Durif and Lopez to give us the full how-to.
How to create a Brigitte Bardot-inspired hairstyle – step by step
The version we see today is not a literal interpretation of Brigitte Bardot’s hair, but is influenced by her signature style. Celebrity hairstylist Yves Durif points out that he was actually mentored by Jacques Dessange, the French stylist responsible for Bardot’s famous bun.
That said, anyone can create a modern version of the look. It helps to have at least medium length hair with built in layers to allow for maximum volume and that flaky texture.
1. Gather Your Supplies
Before starting, you’ll want to grab the following:
- Volumizing shampoo and conditioner
- Heat styling protectant
- Volumizing mousse
- Blow dryer and/or large hair rollers
- Round brush
- Large barrel curling iron
- Texturizing powder or medium hold hairspray
- Teasing Comb
2. Wash and towel dry
Wash and condition your hair with a volumizing shampoo and conditioner. This can add volume even if your hair is already thick. For thinning hair, it can also help prevent “limp locks” and create a fuller look.
3. Apply volumizing mousse
Apply mousse to the roots of wet hair to add volume. You can also apply some heat protectant to the rest of the strands to protect them in the next step.
4. Give yourself a blowout
Lopez says the most important step in recreating a Brigitte-style look is to give yourself a super voluminous haircut. Bounce,” says Lopez. A cylinder brush will help create the perfect hairstyle and add volume, so cut your hair off and take your hair time to blow out each part.
As a heat-free alternative, Durif recommends using a curling iron instead of blowing out your hair. “Use large curlers on wet hair and roll them away from your face, regardless of anything that falls on your face,” he says. Blow dry your hair. When your hair is dry, turn your head upside down and massage the roots with your fingertips.”
5. Go back with curlers
To create more waves and texture, return with large barrel curlers on dry hair. The goal is not to create spiral curls or beach waves, but to create swooping bends and flips. For a 60s vibe, always curl away from your face. Also, for the Brigitte look, make sure to keep your bangs smoother and use curlers to create a carefree, windblown look.
6. Add more texture and volume
Lopez says, “Add a texturizing spray or root lift powder to really lift the roots.” As an alternative, use a medium hold hairspray. Whatever product you choose, be aware that a little goes a long way. Add the product to the roots and gently lift upward to manipulate your hair for more height.
7. Comb and finish with a bun
Finally, Durif says to run a fine-tooth comb through the hair at the top of the head and create a true Brigitte Bardot look. Finish the look with a half “bun banana” (also known as a French bun). Secure with bobby pins when you’re ready.