Brigitte Bardot, Sophia Loren, Gina Lollabrigida: 50s icons proving age is just a number

As well as being a well known actress, Brigitte Bardot also popularised the bikini in her early films such as Manina in 1952. She put a statement on floral print design bikinis by posing in one at the Cannes Film Festival in 1953. At the height of her fame, she was no stranger to showcasing her jaw-dropping physique in multiple shoots, often wearing lingerie and revealing swimwear.

The actress may also be remembered for wearing her beautiful blonde locks in multiple styles.

As part of her lengthy career, she acted in 47 films, performed in multiple musicals and recorded over 60 songs.

In fashion, the now 86-year-old created a legacy by having the Bardot neckline (a wide open neck that exposes both shoulders) named after her.

Often referred to by her initials B.B, she is also French animal rights activist and singer.

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Her film credits include her roles in; Two Women, which earned her the Academy Award for Best Actress, Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow and Marriage Italian Style.

The actress was named by the American Film Institute as the 21st greatest female star of Classic Hollywood Cinema.

Sophia, now 86, is currently the only living actress mentioned on the list.

The movie star led a more quieter life in the late 1960s after starting a family.

However becoming a mum didn’t stop her from working as the opening of her restaurant in Florence last month proves.

The actress posed up a storm at her event launch wearing a white jumpsuit with a matching blazer.

Adding to her glamorous look, she wore her hair in bouncy curls and opted for carefully contoured make-up.

Sophia also took the time to say hello to her fans and blew kisses to the crowd as she made her way into the venue.

Also one of Italy’s memorable stars is actress Gina Lollobrigida.