Carolyn Bessette Kennedy has long been celebrated as a style icon, but this year, her influence has surged from being a subtle reference to a worldwide sensation. The recent series by Ryan Murphy titled “Love Story,” which dramatizes her ill-fated relationship with JFK Jr., has provided viewers with an extensive showcase of her fashion choices. Over nine captivating hours, the series highlights her signature looks, including white tank tops paired with jeans, elegant black dresses, chic oval sunglasses, and stylish tortoiseshell headbands. By the end of the series, many viewers found themselves inspired to emulate her style.
Carole Radziwill, a close friend of Carolyn, has noted that trying to replicate CBK’s fashion sense might be the least authentic approach to honoring her legacy. On the Deuxmoi podcast, she remarked that Carolyn favored practicality and comfort over trends, often opting for simple hairstyles and clothing that felt true to her. She wore jeans, button-down shirts, and T-shirts, emphasizing that the essence of Carolyn’s style was to embrace one’s individuality rather than mimic someone else’s look. Her authentic self-expression is what truly defined her.
Radziwill’s insight is certainly valid. Carolyn’s allure stemmed from her unwavering confidence in her personal taste. She approached fashion instinctively, without overthinking her choices or conforming to external influences. Her style was a genuine reflection of her personality rather than a crafted image that one could replicate merely through wardrobe choices.
Nevertheless, there’s no harm in drawing inspiration from her outfits. The early episodes of “Love Story,” featuring Carolyn, portrayed by Sarah Pidgeon during her time at Calvin Klein, showcase some of her best looks. These outfits are both office-appropriate and stylish, making them ideal for a busy lifestyle. However, female characters in television often oscillate between excessively glamorous or unflatteringly frumpy attire. It raises questions as to why male characters can sport suits, while their female counterparts are often dressed in less appealing clothing.
In the premier episode, Carolyn is seen commuting in a black turtleneck, straight black trousers, and loafers, accompanied by a simple dark bag. While the simplicity of her attire may seem easy to replicate, it possesses an elusive quality that defines its chicness. Achieving the perfect fit through careful selection and trying on multiple options, rather than relying on online shopping, is crucial. Moreover, confidence in choosing understated pieces—like flat shoes without embellishments—is a significant aspect of her style.
Carolyn’s aesthetic stands in stark contrast to that of another iconic 1990s character, Carrie Bradshaw. Her wardrobe features minimal visual distractions: predominantly black and white ensembles without flamboyant colors or accessories. For instance, she might pair a black midi skirt with a silk cardigan or a white pencil skirt with a sleek black jacket—looks unlikely to attract attention on social media. While typical office attire can often be loud and exaggerated, Carolyn’s minimalist approach exudes a seriousness that is perfectly suited for professional settings, without falling into the clichés of power dressing. This allows her outfits to seamlessly transition from day to night.
Ultimately, charisma cannot be bought, nor can one acquire an innate charm or distinctive features. However, embracing minimalism in fashion offers valuable lessons: keep your overall look simple, avoid overthinking, and don’t hesitate to repeat favorite pieces. The only accessories one truly needs are a stylish pair of sunglasses and a classic flip phone.
