Grainy paparazzi images circulating on social media depict Carolyn Bessette Kennedy hailing a cab in a chic black slip dress, effortlessly walking the streets of New York clad in an oversized coat, all while sporting her iconic red lipstick. Nearly thirty years after her untimely passing at the age of 33, Bessette Kennedy is reclaiming her status as one of fashion’s most influential icons. The new television series “Love Story” spotlights her relationship with John F. Kennedy Jr., drawing attention to her style and grace.
In a world where flashy branding and cosmetic alterations prevail, Bessette Kennedy’s allure stems from her simplicity and authenticity. Without any social media presence or brand affiliations, she has maintained an enduring influence. “She looks so different from the people we see now on Instagram,” remarked Ashley Traher, a long-time admirer who reminisced about her early fascination with Bessette Kennedy’s effortless style.
“Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette,” produced by Ryan Murphy, revisits the couple’s whirlwind romance that tragically ended in a plane crash in 1999. The series features actors Paul Anthony Kelly and Sarah Pidgeon, the latter portraying Bessette Kennedy. Traher reflects on how Bessette Kennedy’s understated elegance continues to inspire her to this day.
Bessette Kennedy was known for her significant privacy, often expressing herself through her fashion choices rather than interviews. Sunita Kumar Nair, author of “CBK: Carolyn Bessette Kennedy: A Life in Fashion,” highlighted this aspect of her character, noting the scarcity of footage showcasing Bessette Kennedy speaking publicly. Despite her reserved demeanor, her sartorial impact remains potent, with social media accounts like @allforcarolyn and @carolynbessettepage devoted to her unforgettable wardrobe. Three of her signature coats and a little black dress are set to be auctioned at The Fashion Auctioneer this month, feeding into the growing interest in her style.
Bessette Kennedy, initially a publicist for Calvin Klein, wed John F. Kennedy Jr. in 1996, forging a unique identity independent of her mother-in-law, the renowned Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. Nair emphasized that Bessette Kennedy’s fashion choices reflected her distinctive voice rather than an imitation of others.
Retail interest in Bessette Kennedy’s style is on the rise, with stores like C.O. Bigelow witnessing an influx of customers eager to purchase items associated with her. Alec Ginsberg, whose family owns the apothecary, noted that the appeal extends beyond products—customers want to connect with the legacy of the fashion icon.
As “Love Story” unfolds, some critics have noted that the costume design struggles to fully capture Bessette Kennedy’s refined aesthetic, leading to adjustments from the wardrobe team to ensure authenticity in the portrayal of her style. That simplicity is deceptive, as it demands meticulous attention to tailoring and fit.
While the series reflects on a significant period in Bessette Kennedy’s life, observers are noticing a resurgence of interest in ‘90s fashion, particularly among Gen Z. Stylists are gravitating towards Bessette Kennedy’s clean, polished look, moving away from excessively flashy trends. Styles inspired by her are increasingly sought after, denoting a shift back towards subtlety and elegance.
Bessette Kennedy’s classic style has drawn comparisons to other iconic female figures like Princess Diana, highlighted by a sense of approachability that remains aspirational. Sarah Pidgeon, who portrays her, noted that Bessette Kennedy embodied a mystery and warmth that continues to resonate. “While her style is often replicated, there’s something inherently special about the woman behind the clothes, contributing to the lasting relevance of her image.”
As contemporary fashion circles explore these themes, Carolyn Bessette Kennedy’s legacy remains an enduring wellspring of inspiration, combining elegance and a uniquely captivating persona that continues to resonate with audiences today.