RYAN MURPHY'S 'LOVE STORY' PROVES CAROLYN BESSETTE KENNEDY'S ‘90s STYLE IS TIMELESS
Like the rest of the world, we spent the weekend binge-watching Ryan Murphy’s new show Love Story, which documents the relationship between JFK Jr and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy. And, again, like the rest of the world… we’re there for the clothes.
If you haven’t yet seen Love Story, we urge you to watch it - once you’re done reading this, which we promise to keep spoiler-free. The show feels like a time capsule into a ’90s New York that no longer exists: old-timey restaurants with white tablecloths, references to a then-unknown Kate Moss and a then very-known Prince, and, of course, some excellent ’90s fashion.
The looks come mainly from Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, played by Sarah Pidgeon, though JFK Jr, played by Paul Anthony Kelly, does put up a good fight for ’90s menswear.
The Muse
But while Love Story gives us a beautifully costumed version of Carolyn, it also reminds us of something important: the real CBK didn’t need a script. Long before she was played on screen, she was quietly defining an aesthetic that still dominates moodboards today.
The show may reintroduce her to a new generation, but the original blueprint was already there, captured by paparazzi lenses, not costume departments.
Style Recipe
Before we had The Row, we had CBK and her minimalist altar. CBK mixed high and low brands, quite literally, wearing Calvin Klein dresses with a GAP cap, carrying a Hermès Birkin bag with a pair of Havaianas flip-flops, and pairing a Prada overcoat with Carhartt trousers.
It’s a style recipe that was later adopted by fictional It-girl Carrie Bradshaw (played by Sarah Jessica Parker, who actually dated JFK Jr, fun fact) and should be adopted by you too.
Carolyn favoured a minimal colour palette of black, white and other neutrals, subtly elevating her look with accessories like her signature headband or an iconic handbag. She was especially fond of bags by Prada and Hermès. Understated yet impeccable: chic but effortless, easy-breezy yet perfectly put together. We have put together our It-Girl edit so you can (try to) replicate her inimitable style.
The Edit
Carolyn was rarely photographed without a pair of her signature, almond-shaped sunglasses.
Bottega Veneta Almond Sunglasses Black
When she did add a pop of colour to her outfits, it was often with a silk scarf in her hair. Probably a Hermès one.
Hermès Red Brides de Gala Scarf 90
A true girl on the go, Carolyn favoured a big bag and was often seen carrying a classic black Hermès Birkin.
Hermès Birkin 35 Black Epsom PHW
Animal print is a neutral. This Fendi coat is so Carolyn.
Fendi Printed Coat
Every '90s It-Girl owned a Judith Leiber clutch, and CBK was no exception.
Judith Leiber Crystal Minaudière Clutch
Some women follow trends. Carolyn set a tone, and we’re still dressing by it.
