Effortless, elegant, timeless. The legacy of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s understated looks continues to linger beyond her death, proving that true style never dates. Defined by clean lines, neutral tones and elevated basics.
And so, whether you were familiar with it the first time round (when she was a muse for minimalist labels like Toteme, The Row, and Calvin Klein, where she worked as a publicist). Or fell in love with it following the hit Ryan Murphy series, Love Story, here’s our pick of the best practical staples and smart chic investments to recreate Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s signature “quiet luxury” decades on.
Liss 35 Mule Sandal, $1,395, by Jimmy Choo
Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy understood the power of a quietly striking shoe. These Jimmy Choo mules capture that philosophy perfectly: elegant, unfussy and subtly feminine. The twisted glove-leather strap and delicate bow add just enough softness, while the low heel keeps the silhouette polished yet practica – exactly the sort of understated statement she would pair with tailored trousers or a simple slip dress.
Longline Oversized Coat, $59, by Kmart
If there was one piece CBK mastered, it was the art of the great coat. This longline design, with its relaxed drop shoulders and tortoiseshell buttons, channels that same off-duty Manhattan ease. Thrown over denim or draped across a monochrome outfit, it proves that achieving Carolyn’s minimalist outerwear look doesn’t require a designer budget.
Grace Pearl Pendant, $7,980, by Paspaley
Jewellery in Carolyn’s world was never loud – it was luminous. Like this pendant by Paspaley – a single Australian South Sea pearl suspended from white gold, accented by a subtle diamond. Like many of her best accessories, it feels entirely on brand with her pared-back elegance.
Otra Eyewear Frankie Black Rectangle Sunglasses, $75, by Beginning Boutique
Sharp sunglasses were a Carolyn signature – worn with everything from tailoring to casual denim. The clean rectangular frame of these black Otra shades echoes the same minimalist edge she favoured in the ‘90s. Sleek, practical and eternally cool, they’re the kind of finishing touch that instantly pulls an outfit together.
Mini Puzzle Edge Bag, by Loewe
Carolyn’s bags were always refined yet architectural – pieces that elevated an outfit without overwhelming it. Loewe’s Puzzle Edge bag, with its distinctive geometric panels and soft grained calfskin, strikes that same balance between modern design and timeless restraint. Compact yet sculptural, it’s the sort of accessory that quietly signals impeccable taste.
Musera Mid Waist Baggy Denim Jeans, $42.95, by Shein
Despite her polished image, Carolyn’s off-duty style was refreshingly simple- and good denim was always part of the equation. These relaxed mid-wash jeans capture that effortless, borrowed-from-the-boys energy she wore so well. Styled with a crisp shirt or black knit, they become the perfect foundation for a minimalist wardrobe.
Parisian Musc, $494, by Matiere Premiere
Carolyn’s fragrance of choice has become the stuff of fashion legend: a soft Egyptian musk oil reportedly sourced from New York street vendors. Parisian Musc channels that same quiet sensuality. Built around natural ambrette seed and layered with cedarwood and delicate musks, it creates a clean, intimate scent that lingers close to the skin – subtle, personal and unmistakably Carolyn-coded.
Women Ultra Soft Ballet Flats Suvel, $140, by Everau at Ugg Express
Ballet flats were a cornerstone of Carolyn’s minimalist uniform – equal parts Parisian polish and practical comfort. This ultra-soft leather pair, finished with a delicate bow, delivers the same understated charm. Paired with tailored trousers, denim or a silk skirt, they embody the kind of effortless elegance she made look so easy.
Pull On Drawstring Pant, $460, by Bassike
Relaxed tailoring was another CBK hallmark. These tan Bassike drawstring trousers, cut from softly draping Italian cotton twill, mirror the fluid silhouettes she favoured for everyday dressing. Comfortable yet refined, they blur the line between casual and polished – the essence of quiet luxury.
Black Slouch Bag, $199, by Motto
A great everyday bag was always part of Carolyn’s arsenal, typically roomy, soft and resolutely minimal. This slouchy black tote channels that same effortless practicality with its relaxed silhouette and pared-back design. Spacious enough for daily essentials yet polished enough for work, it’s the kind of piece that becomes a wardrobe constant.
Simplified Soft Move Marl Leggings, $199, by Sweaty Betty
Long before “athleisure” became a trend, Carolyn was mastering the art of polished off-duty dressing. Streamlined leggings like these – clean, high-waisted and completely free of fussy seams – fit neatly into that aesthetic. Styled with an oversized coat or blazer, they capture the same understated sporty sophistication.
Dharma Stitch Detail Blazer, $449, by Saba
Few garments define Carolyn’s wardrobe quite like the perfect blazer. Structured yet streamlined, this Saba design – with its single button closure and subtle waist shaping – captures that same clean-lined sophistication. Worn with denim, trousers or even leggings, it’s the sort of timeless staple that anchors a minimalist wardrobe.
