The story is based on the Francois Sagan’s novel of the same name. If you haven’t already seen it, trust me you should. But I won’t give out any of the plot, but instead I want to focus on the costumes. I want to give you a few ideas on how to steal some of that well known, but ever so evasive French chic, that’s so beautifully captured in the style of the main character Cecile (Jean Seberg). Here are the 4 elements, all in pretty sorbet colors, that mixed with Cecile’s beautiful face without make up, define the style of Bonjour Triestesse.
Men’s Button-downs
Cecile wears her father’s monogrammed light blue button-down over her swimsuits, and it emphasizes their close relationship. This is also a great inspiration for beachwear. Find a soft cotton men’s button-down in a light color to wear over your bikini, or one-piece. Hopefully, your boyfriend (husband, brother, father) won’t mind if you borrow theirs. You can wear it unbuttoned or tied around the waist, but make sure to roll the sleeves up. As it’s oversized, it serves well as a cover up, and protects you from the sun. It’s an unfussy, but chic style, and it’s undeniably sexy.
One Piece Swimsuits
Yes, those were the 50s and bikinis were not really an option, but Cecile’s one piece swimsuits are amazing. I forgot all about bikinis, all I can think of is a vintage style one piece in blue, yellow or red, maybe with polka dot, or a floral print. Sometimes the hottest things are those unsaid or those hidden. Long legs and short hair (or tied in a high bun) is all you need for that perfect, but simple look.
Breton Tops, White Shorts and Ballet Flats
Watching this movie, watching Cecile eating ice cream in the kitchen, then running around the woods in a simple top, white shorts and ballet flats or barefoot, I almost decided I won’t pack any other clothes for my summer vacation. These 3 pieces are keys to her style, and they are as chic today, as they were in the late 50s. And really, what more do you need? You have a simple and refined style with pieces that are easily combined.
Dresses
The two dresses that Cecile wears in the movie reflect the two timelines and the two moods. First is a black cocktail dress that she wears in Paris in the black and white part of the movie. And the other one is the white one that she wears on the night out in town during the summer. So simple, so black and white, and so timeless. Age is not important, because the two simple dresses, one in black, one in white, can be your best friends for life. With a few smartly chosen accessories you will always have something nice to wear.
In the end, the basic idea would be that with a few minimal, but well chosen pieces, you can look simply chic at any time and at any occasion. I hope that all this inspired you to watch the movie and read the book, and that it reminded you how fashion and style are all about imagination and having fun. So, go on and have fun!
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