CBK - A Lesson in Minimalism

The ultimate style icon.

If you know me, you likely also know that my ultimate style icon is Caroline Bessette-Kennedy. If you are also a CBK fan, we can agree that Fall/Winter is hands down her best season for style.

The magic of CBK’s style is explained perfectly in one of my favorite quotes about her - “She was so cool and beautiful in a natural way, in an easy way.” - Sciascia Gambaccini

Similar - Saint Laurent Oval Sunglasses, Black Cashmere Scarf, Vintage Prada Sport Jacket, Camel Corduroy Pants

Simple, 90s and elegant. In my mind - the key to a CBK inspired wardrobe consists of a few basics. Key styles: Oval Sunglasses, a white buttondown, a great pair of vintage levis, and a tailored coat.

The white buttondown is something many attempt and few perfect. My favorite is easily the Nili Lotan Yorke Shirt. It’s a crisp poplin that feels perfectly worn in while maintaining shape. Other great options include this one from Reformation, and this Frankie Shop style. Caroline had a way of wearing ‘the white shirt’ for anything - dressed up at an event or paired with denim and sandals for a laid back look. Investing in a great white button down is completely justifiable - talk about cost per wear.

Vintage Levi’s are always going to be best found at the Rose Bowl Flea in LA, RLT on Beverly Blvd, and Detour Vintage on Etsy (order your waist measurement, not jean size). I look for 501s, 501xx and 505.

Especially if you’re a New Yorker - you know having both a wrap coat and a double breasted are simply necessary for staying warm and chic during the colder months. I love this wrap coat from Raey, this grey style, and this double breasted Frankie Shop coat is next on my list. In true CBK style - black and camel are the go-to’s with an occasional pop of cheetah or fur. This is the ultimate CBK boot - simple yet elegant. For a heel you can never go wrong with Manolos - The Real Real has an amazing selection of vintage pairs.

Great basics are the foundation of any wardrobe. My favorite basics that I would dub ‘CBK Approved’ are from RLT, this white tee is the best I have ever put on my body - I now own multiple black and white along with the tank. Her line is slowly growing and with each addition, I have another line on my wishlist. Flore Flore also make great 90s inspired basics.

Sunita Kumar Nair’s ‘Caroline Bessette Kennedy: A Life In Fashion’ is a great read/coffee table book for fellow admirers’, and also makes a great holiday gift.

There is so much more to say, but because this is all about CBK - less is more. Thank you for reading! x