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Ever since I started watching Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette, I’ve been completely captivated by Carolyn Bessette Kennedy’s effortless sense of style. She rarely wore color, walked with grace and quickly rose to be the American fashion symbol of the ‘90s. Her style also transcends time. Everyone would benefit from analyzing her wardrobe — and adding some of her signature pieces to their own closets.
Any of the following Bessette Kennedy-inspired fashion pieces will quickly elevate your outfits. Not only do these tops, jeans, and shoes feel fresh and modern, but they’re also classic enough to keep you looking stylish for years to come.
13 Minimalist Pieces to Nail Carolyn Bessette Kennedy’s Effortless ’90s Style
1. Back to Her Roots: A Carolyn Bessette Kennedy wardrobe isn’t complete without a pair of Calvin Klein flared jeans. The vintage blue epitomizes her effortless ‘90s aesthetic.
2. Tailored to Perfection: On chilly days, Bessette Kennedy was often seen sporting a beige or black trench coat. From the ‘90s to today, this is a wardrobe staple everyone should own.
3. Better Than a Tee: Boat neck shirts highlight your collarbone and have an inherent French appeal to them. The style was Bessette Kennedy’s signature, and you might completely ditch T-shirts for this one.
4. Simple Shades: Small oval sunnies were the finishing touch to most of Bessette Kennedy’s looks. These little black frames make a major impact on your outfit, trust Us.
5. French-Inspired: Bessette Kennedy took a lot of inspiration from the French — especially when it came to her accessories, like a tortoise headband, which she regularly used to elegantly pull her hair back from her face.
6. Stylish Step: One shoe ruled New York City in the ‘90s — loafers. The sleek, polished style was the catchall footwear that Bessette Kennedy would wear from the office to happy hour and beyond.
7. The Uniform: A crisp white, form-fitting button-down was one of the most-worn items in Bessette Kennedy’s wardrobe, probably because of its versatility. This can be styled with skirts and jeans, and it’s a wonderful layering piece.
8. The OG LBD: Bessette Kennedy helped make the little black slip dress incredibly popular. Replicate the effortless ‘90s night out look with this mid-length option.
9. Take Your Pick: What’s more ‘90s than a knee-length pencil skirt? Nothing! Stay true to the style while adding a pop of personality with this design, available in six colors.
10. So Practical: Because Bessette Kennedy led a busy life, she needed shoes that would work with her, not against her. When she wore heeled footwear, she usually went with block heels, and she was often spotted in brown leather boots like these.
11. The Timeless Carryall: Bessette Kennedy’s demanding job at Calvin Klein required a trustworthy work bag that could hold anything and everything. This Classic Italian Leather Tote from Quince is the modern-day version, and it will last a lifetime!
12. Animal Print Goddess: One of Bessette Kennedy’s most memorable looks included a leopard print fur coat. Trés chic!
13. Best Basic of All: More than anything, Bessette Kennedy knew the value of a good basic. Her style should remind you to refresh your black tee collection with this cotton blend crewneck.
