Love Story: Between 90s Nostalgia and the Carolyn Bessette Effect
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Released last February, the series Love Story, which highlights the relationship between John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette, has made quite a splash. Despite some weaknesses, the blend of minimalist style, analog lifestyle, and a nostalgic playlist has made everyone addicted to the nineties aesthetic of the format, particularly the outfits of Calvin Klein’s former publicist, now seen as the fashion reference of the season!
Why does the 90s of the Love Story series fascinate so much in 2026?
Having zero knowledge about the JFK Jr. and CBK couple, and intrigued by the buzz the series created, I dove into watching it to study the phenomenon – ultimately understanding the hype it generated, even though it is not a masterpiece…
I must admit that (aside from the historical aspect for which I lack the knowledge to form an opinion) the series presents numerous artistic choices, narrative styles, and intentions that left me rather perplexed.
Nevertheless, despite these points, the 90’s mood (with its clothing, music, and the New York of that time…) ultimately manages to engulf us with the nostalgia of that era, not so distant yet so different from our own, wrapping us in a comforting feeling.
Is the analog lifestyle of the 90s envied?
Beyond the romance-people aspect, another facet of the series can explain its success: the daily life of the 90s was much more analog than our current environment.
Indeed, at the time of this romance, calls were made from payphones, landlines were just starting to lose their cords, and people read newspapers while sitting on benches enjoying the fresh air… A lifestyle that is more regretted than ever and sought after this year, explaining how the series presents itself as a breath of fresh air…
How does the Love Story series reign over all trends?
Unsurprisingly, the success (whether loved or not) of the series has generated a wave of trend videos on social media. Thus, after the dance from the fourth season of Bridgerton remixed in every way, we now observe a hype for biking in a suit with a backward cap, as well as parodies and reaction videos set to “American Wedding” by Frank Ocean.
However, the romance of the Bessette-Kennedy couple (played by Paul Anthony Kelly and Sarah Pidgeon) influences not only the creation of this type of content. The costumes from the Love Story series have also become the lookbook for spring, and the outfits of CBK and JFK Jr. are being studied from every angle in our feeds. And it must be said that the work of the costume designers deserves praise!
The story of a fashion explosion
The fashion aspect of the series, which is one of the main reasons for its popularity, doesn’t stop at the actors’ wardrobes.
Love Story also stands as witness to a pivotal period in the fashion industry. Calvin Klein was at the peak of his fame, while Kate Moss was just starting her career, and Narciso Rodriguez was beginning to spread his wings. A time travel experience into often discreet locations that adds to the curiosity.
Carolyn Bessette: Icon of 90s and today’s fashion
Whether back then or today, Carolyn Bessette quickly became regarded as a fashion icon for her very coded 90’s and minimalist style (passed down by Calvin Klein). A trademark that now fascinates a new audience, discovering her for the first time for many, and who have only one thing in mind: to adopt her iconic style.
However, nuance is needed…
Between minimalism and standout pieces
By combining high fashion pieces with more affordable ones, Carolyn Bessette over the years has crafted a wardrobe that stands out from magazine silhouettes.
Her outfits reflect the contradictory spirit of the 90s, composed of basics with impeccable cuts mixed in her own way, often centered around a standout piece.
Adding some sporty or patterned pieces, her style was complemented by simple and effective accessories, such as timeless and practical bags, elongated fine sunglasses, and the iconic tortoiseshell acetate headband!
Simple style or contagious aura?
While everyone tries to replicate the Bessette style, one thing needs to be emphasized: wearing the same pieces as CBK will not make you the fashion icon she once was. Why? Because her presence relied heavily on her aura and self-confidence, which elevated the outfits she wore!
When brands ride the Bessette effect
The popularity of Carolyn Bessette’s looks and the growth of keywords “Kennedy,” “Bessette,” and “CBK” have pushed brands to embrace the 90s trend. Take Massimo Dutti, for example, with the A Forever Story collection – whose campaign is heavily coded in Love Story.
Additionally, other brands like Bompard Paris are assembling pieces from their wardrobes to create looks inspired by CBK’s minimalist style.
Finally, Calvin Klein, showcased at its glory in the series, is bringing back its 90’s classics, making the most of this new wave of visibility.
The make-up version CBK
Beyond her outfits, the no-makeup and glowing makeup of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy is at the heart of all searches.
And while magazines and content reveal the references of her essentials – including the “Cranberry Veil lipstick” from FACE Stockholm – other brands are riding the trend to boost their sales.
We particularly think of Rhode, which just unveiled its spring collection, whose campaign was shot with Sarah Pidgeon.
Whether we embrace the series or not, one thing is certain on the trend front: minimalism, which was set to give way to maximalism, still has bright days ahead.
Photos: Pinterest
