Brigitte Bardot is one of the most iconic actresses of all time—a sex symbol of the 1960s, an activist, and a fashionista. You may have never seen any of her films, as they were primarily made between the 1950s and 1970s, but her photographs and persona are so influential that she continues to inspire people to this day.

It’s undeniable that no one embodies French glamour quite like her. During her heyday, Bardot sported voluminous hairstyles adorned with ribbons, wore tailored suits, mini dresses, leather outfits, and flared trousers.

When she burst onto the public scene in the early 1950s, France and the world were unprepared for her. “All the women of my generation remember her first cover of Elle in 1950,” recalled French fashion historian Nicole Parro. Bardot was barely 16 at the time. “She had short, walnut-colored hair and the magnificent posture of a dancer. She represented something that had never had a place in society or fashion before.”

To commemorate her significant milestone—turning 90 on September 28—we’ve gathered some archival photographs of this stunning blonde beauty. Who knows, you might find inspiration for your next outfit, makeup look, or even a hairstyle reminiscent of this glamorous Frenchwoman.