FASHION
WE’LL NEVER STOP REFERENCING CAROLYN BESSETTE KENNEDY
By Flo Bellinger, 12 February 2026
Few have planted their leather-booted feet so firmly in the fashion lore as Carolyn Bessette Kennedy (or CBK, as she’s fondly dubbed). The publicist-turned-socialite catapulted to global fame thanks to her relationship with JFK Jr. – but it was Carolyn’s style, marked by timeless monochrome pieces and tortoiseshell accessories, that made her the icon she remains. Whether it was her satin bias-cut wedding gown (still referenced by brides the world over) or the carousel of tailored coats she paraded around the West Village, we all remember our first encounter with a CBK look.
Even if you haven’t heard of the 90s style legend, there’s no doubt your favourite stars have referenced Carolyn Bessette Kennedy. From Rachel Green to the Olsen Twins, quiet luxury has CBK to thank as a founding member, which also means no shortage of write-ups on Ms Bessette Kennedy’s wardrobe. But with the new Ryan Murphy series American Love Story (releasing 13 February on Disney+) promising to recreate some of her greatest looks, we figured it’s the perfect time to dig through the CBK archives. Keep scrolling for ‘fits we can’t wait to see on screen (and how to create them yourself).
THE CLASSIC WHITE SHIRT
Picture: Getty
It’s easy to sleep on pieces this simple, but a classic white shirt was CBK gold dust. The fashion-forward publicist – who began her career at Calvin Klein, no less – was known to put a personal spin on the staple. Whether she wrapped it around her waist, wore it unbuttoned or turned up the sleeves, Carolyn’s white shirt collection became a New York attraction in its own right. This look features the best of her effortlessly chic approach, with simple black trousers, strappy leather sandals and a spotless poplin blouse. CBK was also unafraid to let her clothes do the talking. Case in point: her bare neckline and minimal jewellery. The main takeaway? When it comes to 90s dressing, don’t overthink it.
GET THE LOOK:
ASOS DESIGN oversized shirt in white, £26
Good American always fits good legs skinny jeans in black, £158
Stradivarius black heeled sandals in black, £27.99
Sister Jane beaded bag in gold, £39
STATEMENT OUTERWEAR
Picture: Getty
In 90s Manhattan, Carolyn and her coats could be spotted strutting around Soho and the West Village. She was known to have a penchant for tailored silhouettes, with a bevvy of wool pea coats and crisp trenches that kept her svelte for every forecast. Besides the classic black pieces, there were several statements – like this red checkered coat – that made a lasting impression. The belted waist creates a preened and preppy silhouette bolstered by Carolyn’s flared denim and simple black boots. CBK also knew how to strike just the right balance, preventing her looks from veering too formal. Her simple beanie and roll neck bring this could-be twee 'fit back to the NYC sidewalk – the perfect blend of street style and scholarly.
GET THE LOOK:
Topshop dropped belt longline formal coat in red, £90
ASOS DESIGN sculpting super stretch flare jeans in rinse, £38
Pull&Bear High-heel ankle boots in black, £39.99
Bershka Basic beanie in black, £12.99
TIMELESS ACCESSORIES
Picture: ASOS
We’ve all dreamt of raiding Carolyn’s sunglasses drawer. There are her slimline tortoiseshell shades – which have enjoyed a revival in recent summers – and handfuls of old-school oval frames that threw some tomboy attitude on her turned-out looks. We’re also here for a CBK headband – a firm favourite of hers that we hope to see more of in 2026. If you’re not prepared to go full school-girl preppy with your hair accessories, sculpted hair ties and resin pieces are a great way to embrace Carolyn’s aesthetic on your own terms.
GET THE LOOK:
ASOS DESIGN oval sunglasses in milky tort, £14
Reclaimed Vintage hairband with cuff in tortoiseshell, £12.99
Sui Ava velvet hair head band in dark brown, £13
ARKET acetate metal oval hair clip in tortoiseshell, £19
SUBDUED STAPLES
Picture: Getty
If there’s one 90s wardrobe item to rule them all, it’s the jean. And Carolyn Bessette Kennedy had plenty of them. From capri-style cut-offs to flares and skinny silhouettes, this is a woman who knew good denim. CBK was a purveyor of minimal dressing, and her sprawling jean collection often served as the blueprint – a foundation on which she layered simple black tees and strappy sandals. Her spring-ready looks are a prime example. Carolyn often paired a demure black tank with a simple leather watch, which let her statement blonde hair do the heavy lifting. Every detail was understated but intricately thought-through, from perfect-fitting denim to a flawless pedicure.
GET THE LOOK:
ASOS DESIGN crop kick flare jean in rinse, £32
ASOS DESIGN compact cotton boat neck tank top in black, £18
RAID Iveyy block heeled strappy sandals in butter yellow, £28
Sekonda Womens Monica 20mm Analogue Watch, £49.99
Watch American Love Story exclusively on Disney+ from 13 February 2026.
