Why Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s Style Is Trending
Ryan Murphy’s new series “Love Story,” which tells the story of John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette’s relationship, has caused a stir on social media. Viewers are discussing not only the unpleasant details of the couple’s romance but also the impeccable style of Bessette, played by Sarah Pidgeon.
Six months before its release, the series’ creators were hit with a wave of hate—fans criticized the looks chosen for Pidgeon. Costume designer Rudy Mance was then brought on board, and it was at his suggestion that viewers began emulating the main character’s style.
After her marriage, Bessette was often compared to her mother-in-law, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis—both women strove to protect their privacy from the ubiquitous reporters and paparazzi. Following in her mother-in-law’s footsteps, her daughter-in-law also became a fashion icon, thanks to her love of a formal wardrobe featuring black turtlenecks, straight trousers, and loose-fitting coats.
The understated style dubbed “90s minimalism” is currently experiencing a renaissance. Fashionistas around the world are rushing to stock up on wardrobe pieces inspired by “quiet luxury,” rejecting fleeting trends.
White shirts, iconic Levi’s 517 jeans, basic T-shirts and tank tops, pencil skirts, quality sweaters, and a classic black coat—these are the typical recommendations from influencers emulating Bessette-Kennedy’s style. No flashy prints, loud accessories, complicated hairstyles, or bold makeup—just effortless elegance.
The series introduced Caroline and her chic style to a whole new generation, who immediately appreciated her timeless look. Bessette proved that you don’t have to follow trends to be truly fashionable.
Bessette’s signature style was a sleek headband from Charles J. Wahb, which women flocked to stores for in July. The trendsetter most often wore a chocolate-amber headband with a tortoiseshell print, which, back in the ’90s and even today, was imitated not only by A-list celebrities but also by ordinary shoppers due to its affordability.
“These headbands definitely live up to their popularity,” said makeup artist Olivia Barad.
The relevance of Bessette-Kennedy’s minimalist style is largely due to its affordability. Similar basics are available in stores of all sizes, and many don’t even need to buy new clothes to emulate their idol, as jeans and neutral tops are a staple in almost every wardrobe.
“Carolyn represented the chic and quiet luxury that many women aspire to but can’t always afford. But the versatility of her wardrobe, along with accessories like affordable headbands, allows fashionistas to join the trend,” says blogger Beverly Hart.
However, Bessette Kennedy herself was unlikely to be driven by affordability—her prominent position in the fashion industry meant she always had access to luxury. “Carolyn always bought only what she truly needed and always insisted on payment, refusing gifts,” according to Sunita Kumare Nair’s book, CBK: Carolyn Bessette Kennedy: A Life in Fashion.
She stocked up on crisp white shirts, classic coats, loafers, and a plethora of black pieces, perfect for both parties and everyday wear. Her minimalist wardrobe consisted of just 30-40 items, often the same items in different colors, but always of the highest quality and impeccable cut. Hence, the Levi’s jeans, the custom-made Prada coat, and the Manolo Blahnik shoes.
How else do girls imitate Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy?
The hashtag #cbk (Carolyn Bessette Kennedy) has recently become one of the most popular online, with videos featuring it garnering millions of views on TikTok. “Every girl today feels an overwhelming desire to look like Bessette Kennedy,” says stylist Jules Fox.
Searches for “CBK engagement ring,” “CBK engagement ring photo,” and “CBK wedding dress” increased by 5,000 percent on Google Trends.
Women are emulating not only Caroline’s style but also her appearance, which also adhered to the principles of “casual elegance.” Hairdressers are noting a surge in interest in blonde hair, as seen in Bessette-Kennedy, who favored light-brown shades, as opposed to the currently trendy cool colors.
Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s hair color is truly iconic. It’s a pure, vibrant, soft blonde that looks both natural and sophisticated. This sunny, warm blonde will never go out of style, as it instantly transforms any look.
Some bloggers have gone further and started transforming their boyfriends into John F. Kennedy Jr., attempting to recreate the equally iconic style of the ’90s fashion icon’s husband. Young men, in turn, are embracing the trend, hitting the bars in button-down shirts and backwards caps, mimicking photos of Kennedy Jr. himself, who was relentlessly pursued by paparazzi.
Why is it not so easy to recreate the image of an American woman?
Despite the simplicity of Kennedy’s chosen outfit, replicating her look wasn’t as easy as it first appeared. “I’m trying to achieve that chic Carolyn Bessette look with my hair. I bought a headband thinking it would enhance my style, but it didn’t quite work out… It’s hard when you want to embody that minimalist style and fashion concept, but you feel like you’re failing,” complained Nina Vukojevic, one of the trend’s followers.
New York-based stylist Liz Teich explained that the key to recreating Bessette-Kennedy’s style is quality.
“If you want to look like Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy but don’t have her style or budget, start with quality, minimalist basics. You don’t need a lot of jewelry—a classic watch will do. Sandals with a comfortable heel and oval sunglasses will do the trick. Keep your hair and makeup simple and understated for daytime wear, and choose a roomy bag without large logos,” the fashion expert explained.
Teich’s colleague Sandra Okerulu added that such a seemingly simple and understated style might not suit everyone. When choosing looks, it’s important to consider your personality type—some women look better in flashy outfits, which Bessette-Kennedy herself avoided at all costs.
“Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s style truly became iconic thanks to its incredible ease. Her aesthetic was largely based on masterful tailoring and a special choice of fabrics… Everything seemed to come together perfectly. Her style was a perfect blend of expensive and affordable pieces, creating a look that is timeless and flattering for most people,” the expert concluded.
