The legendary Italian actor Sophia Loren is known for many things: her Oscar-winning performances, her signature feline flick of eyeliner, a few passionate love affairs, and of course, an inimitable style of style. Think: Curve-hugging midi dresses with sweetheart necklines, linen eyelet tops worn languidly off the shoulder, capri pants with a casual button-down, and structured colorful swimsuits.

And nowhere does her eye for fashion feel more at home than in the dog days of summer, where she has typically been found cruising down the Amalfi Coast and Bay of Naples, or lounging by the pool of her villa outside Rome. And when she’s not spending her days villas around Capri or Sorrento? You’ll find her on the Greek island of Hydra, cruising the Caribbean, or city-breaking in Barcelona.

Here, we pay tribute to the legendary Italian actor—and her summer vacation fashion—across 15 vintage photographs capturing her spirit of effortless, La Dolce Vita glamour. It’s proof that true style only becomes more alluring with time—much like the star herself.

Anna Cafolla is American Vogue’s news editor, working across fashion, beauty, culture and living from London. Previously, she has worked at Dazed, Cosmopolitan, and ELLE, and has written for The Guardian, The Face, AnOther, and Conde Nast Traveller. She will hold you hostage until you agree to her restaurant recommendations. ... Read More