Muse of the Moment: Anna Karina

We're loving the 1960s Danish singer-actress' cute, quirky style

By Andrea Kasprzak
Published: May 14th, 2010 | 2:25pm

Fact: 1960s French pop stars and actresses are like sartorial porn. Who doesn't wish for Bridgette Bardot-mastery of the smoldering, sooty eye and teased half up-hair-down style (which Sienna Miller cited as her Met Gala hair inspiration and totally nailed in Alfie). Or strive for just an ounce of Jane Birkin's casual sexiness with her leggy denim and bangs?

Recently smitten with Sylvie Vartan radio (a perfect playlist for daydreams of farmer's markets, wet braided hair, and tan lines peeking out of gingham sundresses), we rediscovered another totally iconic muse of the time.

A total Cinderella story, Anna Karina moved to Paris in 1958 at the age of 17. The Danish beauty became muse and wife to director Jean-Luc Godard, and appeared in his film Le Petit Soldat in 1960. The actress-model-cabernet singer is definitely talented and adorable, but we can't get enough of her cute, quirky wardrobe. Whether pouting in a floppy straw hat or pulled together in a fitted trench, the look is playful while still remaining completely chic.

Judging from Milly's Fall 2010 collection, it seems we're not the only ones with a serious case of closet envy. The feminine line sent models down the runway in berets, kicky minis, and colored tights that made us eagerly anticipate autumn. But why wait until next season to steal the style? Look for pieces in primary hues and classic cuts, like this trench from J.Crew. Or pull on a pretty peter-pan-collar blouse, pair of sailor shorts, or simple sundress. For the ultimate accessory, line lashes liberally with a heavy, intense layer of onyx eyeliner.

Icon Trench, JCrew, $298, Hat, Urban Outfitters, $34; Marc Jacobs sailor short, Bluefly, $95; Chanel eye liner, Neiman Marcus, $28