Let's talk about the ultimate “It Girl” before Instagram was even a thing, Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy. Carolyn was the ultimate cool girl, but not in a “look at me” kind of way. She was more like “Oh, this? I just threw it on,” except that “this” was a crisp, perfectly tailored white shirt and some effortlessly chic black pants that probably cost more than our entire closet. So, let’s take a closer look at our one and only Carolyn’s style and fashion inspos.
Early Life
Born in the ‘60s and rising to style fame in the ‘90s, Carolyn was a breath of minimalist, timeless air in a world where everyone else was bedazzling everything. And to top it off, she married JFK Jr., officially becoming American royalty. Imagine Jackie O and Marilyn Monroe rolled into one and with a dose of ‘90s grunge. Yeah, that was Carolyn.
The “I Woke Up Like This” Vibe
Carolyn's style was iconic because she took simplicity to a whole new level. She had this uncanny ability to look incredibly put together with minimal effort (or at least, that’s what she made it look like). Her wardrobe was filled with monochromatic looks, sleek silhouettes, and a palette that basically stuck to neutrals. Black, white, and camel were her power colours. Think black turtlenecks, silk slip dresses, oversized sunglasses, and that hair, a perfect buttery blonde that seemed to always fall just right.
And let’s talk about her makeup: barely-there but totally flawless. She was the queen of the “no makeup” makeup before it became an Instagram trend, nailing that natural look we all wish we could achieve without looking like we just rolled out of bed.
“I’m Not Like Other Girls, I Wear Flats” Moment
Carolyn loved her Manolo heels, but let’s take a moment to appreciate that she was often spotted in ballet flats. Yes, flats, people. Somehow, she managed to make this the peak of sophistication. She taught us that you don’t have to sacrifice comfort for style, a concept that my collection of unworn heels in the back of my closet is very grateful for.
Effortlessly Glamorous and Mysterious
Here's the tea: Carolyn didn’t just have style, she had vibes. She was the girl who’d walk into a room, and everyone would just know she was someone important. Yet, she wasn’t all over magazines giving interviews or spilling secrets. She kept her life private, which only added to her allure. Carolyn was, in essence, the OG of “main character energy.” I mean, imagine showing up to any event with JFK Jr. on your arm, rocking a chic slip dress, and just existing in that perfectly mysterious way.
How to Channel Your Inner Carolyn
Now, if you're thinking, “How do I live my best Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy life?” Here are some quick tips:
1. Keep it simple – Stick to timeless pieces. Think: crisp white shirts, black trousers, and lots of neutrals.
2. Embrace the slip dress – Yes, it’s back, and yes, it’s still fabulous. You don’t need a reason, just a good dress and the confidence to pull it off. 3. Minimal makeup, maximum impact – Try the “no makeup” makeup look. Or, honestly, just go for good skincare.
4. Perfect the hair flip – Carolyn always had that slightly messy, effortlessly cool hair. You don’t need a blowout every day. Just keep it chill.
5. Channel your inner mystery – Don’t post everything. Save a little for yourself. Let people wonder!
Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy didn’t just leave us with an unforgettable style legacy; she reminded us that true chicness is about simplicity, elegance, and a little mystery. She was that girl before we even knew what “that girl” meant. So, the next time you’re tempted to over-accessorize, take a page from Carolyn’s book. Less is more, babe.
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