The Underrated Style of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy

Any woman whose mother-in-law was Jacqueline Kennedy-Onassis (I just wrote a post all about Jackie’s style too) would have been a little nervous when it came to filling in Jackie’s fashion shoes. However, Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy was a strong, opinionated lady who knew what she liked. Today, I will be focusing on the underrated style of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy and how she changed fashion forever.

Although when we think of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s life we think of her untimely death, there is so much she contributed to life and fashion while she was alive. Modern street style would not be the same if it were not for Carolyn. Today, you can easily draw the similarities of the Duchess of Sussex’s style (Meghan Markle) and the iconic Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s style.

I particularly like the slight touch of retro that Carolyn always seemed to add to her wardrobe whether it be the high heeled knee high boots, circular sunglasses, or large square pockets. This is definitely more in line with how I like to style my own outfits which just goes to show how much she has shaped the American sense of casual style. There is something very timeless about the overall neutral color palette Carolyn always used, too.

When it came to evening wear and formal events, Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy typically went with a chic black, white, or navy color. I can most definitely see how Meghan Markle took inspiration for her wedding gown from Carolyn! Both were sleek and timeless, but most importantly put the focus on the lady wearing it.

Another striking feature in Carolyn’s closet is that nothing was overwhelming her natural beauty. Like her mother-in-law, Carolyn was more interested in the tailoring which really allowed her to always look sleek and timeless.

One last element that I cannot forget to mention is the simple hair and makeup Carolyn was most often seem wearing. She really kept her makeup to a minimum and only every once in a while added a pop of color with red lipstick. Carolyn’s hair is also very sleek like her wardrobe. She usually wore her hair down, but for special events she pulled it all up into a low bun.

Overall, I feel that Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy is not getting the respect she deserves when it comes to how much she shaped modern fashion. So much of modern street style has been inspired by here timeless wardrobe. I hope this post will help her fashion legacy and give her the recognition she deserves!

Much Love,
Sarah