Essential Fall Capsule Wardrobe Inspired by Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy
Here’s a curated list of must-have items to capture the essence of 90s fashion icon style. These pieces are not only chic and timeless but also easy to find while thrifting.
Dear Reader,
It might be 110 degrees outside in Arizona, but that won’t stop me from putting on Norah Jones, lighting my pumpkin candles, and watching all my Meg Ryan movies. Fall is a special time; it's almost like a do-over in my eyes—a chance to renew. As F. Scott Fitzgerald once said, “Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall.” I’ve personally still been healing from my breast reduction surgery, and I haven’t been able to thrift as much as usual due to my recovery, which has led to a lot of bed-rotting. During this time, I’ve indulged in an unhealthy amount of research into one of my favorite style icons, more specifically Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy. That’s who I want to focus on today. Not only was she a fashion icon in the 90s, but her influence is still prevalent today.
Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy is a truly captivating figure. She never gave an interview; instead, she let her clothes do the talking. Her style seamlessly combines minimalism, sophistication, and an innate sense of understated elegance. As the quintessential embodiment of 90s minimalism, she revolutionized casual wear by transforming it into chic fashion. She had a remarkable ability to turn a simple pair of blue jeans and a turtleneck into a striking fashion statement. With her keen eye for the perfect accessory—whether it was a delicate pearl necklace, a classic handbag, or stylish sunglasses—she effortlessly enhanced her outfits. Her looks are highly replicable, so let’s explore how we can give your wardrobe a Carolyn-inspired makeover.
As I put together this list, I noticed it closely mirrors, if not exactly matches, the one I use when thrifting for my clients. Before heading into a thrift store, I always consult images of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy for inspiration to guide my shopping. To build a wardrobe inspired by her iconic style, focus on timeless, minimalist pieces with a touch of sophistication. Here’s a curated list of clothing items that embody her signature look:
Tops
1. Classic White Button-Down Shirt - Crisp, tailored, and versatile.
2. Neutral Turtlenecks - Ideal for layering and maintaining elegance.
3. Simple Crew Neck Sweaters - In neutral colors like black, gray, or beige.
4. Plain White Tee - Understated and everyday wear.
Bottoms
High-Waisted Blue Jeans - Straight-leg or slightly tapered for a polished look. As I look through images I see she also sports a blue jean carpenter jean.
Tailored Trousers - In neutral tones such as black, gray, or navy.
A-Line Skirt - A knee-length or midi skirt in a classic color.
Outerwear
1. Structured Blazer - In black or navy, for a sharp, sophisticated silhouette.
2. Trench Coat - A beige or camel trench coat adds timeless elegance.
3. Wool Overcoat - A tailored coat in a neutral color for colder weather.
Dresses
1. Slip Dress - In a neutral or muted color, for a chic and effortless style.
2. Shift Dress - Simple and elegant, in classic shades like black or navy.
Shoes
1. Black Pump - A classic, comfortable pair for a polished look.
2. Leather Ballet Flats - Neutral-colored flats for everyday wear.
3. Ankle Boots - Sleek and simple, in black or brown leather.
4. Flip Flops - Simple and easy to slip on. I recently bought a pair of Havanas for $30 because its rumored to be the brand she would always be spotted in.
Accessories
1. Pearl Necklace - A delicate, understated piece that adds a touch of elegance.
2. Classic Handbag - A structured leather bag in a neutral tone, such as black or beige.
3. Sunglasses - Timeless and understated, with a classic frame shape. Hers were made by Selima Optique
4. Headband - Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s exact headbands are still available at C.O. Bigelow in Manhattan's Greenwich Village neighborhood.
5. Watch - The Quintessential Timeless Cartier Tank Watch. It’s rumored that JFK Jr. gave Jackie’s Cartier watch to Carolyn.
Additional Pieces
Silk Scarf - In a neutral or simple pattern for added sophistication.
Cashmere Sweater - Soft and luxurious, in a versatile color.
Minimalist Jewelry - Simple gold or silver pieces that enhance without overpowering.
You can also find these pieces featured in my Instagram story sales. I hope you enjoyed this article as much as I enjoyed researching and writing it. Here’s to celebrating 90s minimalism and a heartfelt thank you to Carolyn for being such an enduring fashion icon.
xx Madalyn