A very special piece from the estate of French superstar Brigitte Bardot is going up for auction.

A black velvet sleeveless jacket once worn by French actress and cultural icon Brigitte Bardot has gone up for auction, drawing attention from collectors and fans around the world. The piece, which dates back to the 1960s, was crafted by renowned designer Jean Bouquin during the height of Bardot’s film career. The jacket, adorned with embroidered butterflies and trimmed with woolen fringe, will be sold alongside a signed photograph and a dedication from Bardot herself, according to reports. The auction, organized by a prominent European auction house, marks one of the few opportunities for the public to acquire clothing directly associated with Bardot, who passed away at the age of 92. Known globally as a sex symbol of the 1950s and 1960s, Bardot left the film industry relatively early but remained a powerful figure in both French and international pop culture. After retiring from acting, she dedicated her life to animal rights advocacy through her foundation, publicly urging celebrities to stop wearing fur and financially supporting activists in their efforts to protect animals. The jacket, described by auctioneer Jenny Low as “a unique opportunity to become the owner of an item created for and worn by the cinematic icon Brigitte Bardot,” reflects the designer's signature style from the 1960s. Bouquin, whose boutique opened in Saint-Tropez, became known for creating high-end pieces favored by celebrities such as Mick Jagger, Bianca Jagger, Jane Birkin, and Natalie Wood. His designs were often characterized as combining luxury with elements of the hippie aesthetic, blending elegance with countercultural flair. The jacket itself is notable for its craftsmanship and historical significance. Its velvet fabric, intricate embroidery, and distinctive trim make it a rare example of 1960s haute couture linked to one of the era’s most recognizable figures. The inclusion of a personal dedication from Bardot adds further value, offering potential buyers a direct connection to the actress’s legacy. Bouquin’s work during this period was highly sought after, particularly among the elite social circles of Saint-Tropez, a coastal town in southern France known for its association with artists, musicians, and celebrities. His ability to merge fashion with the spirit of the times made his creations stand out, and the Bardot jacket exemplifies this blend of artistry and cultural relevance. The auction comes amid growing interest in vintage fashion items tied to iconic personalities. Collectors and historians alike view such pieces as valuable artifacts that capture the essence of a particular time and person. For many, owning a garment once worn by Bardot represents more than just material possession, it symbolizes a tangible link to an influential figure who shaped modern culture in multiple ways. As the auction date approaches, speculation continues about how much the jacket might fetch. While exact estimates have not been disclosed, similar items from the same era have commanded substantial prices in recent years. The sale could set a benchmark for other memorabilia related to Bardot, who remains a subject of fascination decades after her peak in Hollywood. The jacket’s journey from the set of Bardot’s films to the auction room underscores the enduring appeal of her image and the timeless nature of the fashion she helped define. Whether it ends up in the hands of a private collector or a museum, the piece will serve as a lasting tribute to the woman who captivated audiences with her beauty, talent, and later, her unwavering commitment to animal welfare.