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Readers of this column will know that I’m a huge fan of Carolyn Bessette Kennedy’s look. So I was excited to learn that Ryan Murphy, who made Eat Pray Love and Netflix’s The Politician, is producing a biopic of her life and relationship with JFK Jr.
Sounds straightforward enough, but it turns out that recreating a style icon on screen is not easy – and the fashion police have not been impressed with the paparazzi shots captured from the set. In fact, the backlash against how Sarah Pidgeon, the actress playing CBK, was dressed during lighting tests has been breathtaking, with critics unanimous in their slamming of the wardrobe choices, calling them ‘cheap and nasty’ and an insult to her elegance.
Dress, Simkhai. Sunglasses, Gucci. Necklace, Monica Vinader. Bag, The Row. Shoes, Aeyde
I’ve been invested in CBK’s style for years, long before all the social-media accounts popped up dedicated to her outfits, and I’m afraid I agree with the condemnation – the styling is lazy and the awful clothes look like they are from Shein.
But Murphy, who has been following the online discourse since the release of the test shots, claims people are jumping the gun. He has promised he will do right by CBK and has employed a team of ten dedicated to sourcing her wardrobe. Their aim will be to include the original pieces she wore, or at least exact replicas, such as the Birkin 40 bag, brown Prada boots and famous Calvin Klein satin gown she wore with a cream scarf.
Here’s why CBK’s style is still so relevant – and the rules for achieving her effortless elegance.
★ Mix high with low. She did this with aplomb, often teaming vintage Levi’s and Gap T-shirts with Calvin Klein leather jackets and designer bags.
★ Less is more. Her style was clean and edited to a T! She actually had a small wardrobe but it always featured well-made pieces.
★ Don’t be afraid to repeat. CBK wore her favourites over and over. This is the way to justify your splurges – wear them to death.
★ Define your style. Hers mixed a muted palette with elements of surprise, such as unusual shapes and details. My favourite outfit of hers was a white shirt tucked into a black maxi skirt, both by Yohji Yamamoto, which she wore to a black-tie event. It was a unique look that’s since been copied by many, including Meghan Markle.
PINK LADY
If you’re after some breezy linen for your summer travels, WNU has some lovely pieces. I adore this grapefruit-pink shirt, which has matching shorts.
BEADY BUY
Beaded necklaces are a fun new trend this summer. I love Blythe B’s handmade collection. She began making these beautiful pieces during Covid and now business is thriving.
SPOTTED
Max Mara made a statement in Naples at royal residence Reggia di Caserta with a celebration for its Resort 2026 collection, which included a welcome dinner for stars including Gwyneth Paltrow and Sharon Stone, who wore the label’s new collection. My favourite look was Alexa Chung’s.
