Is Minimalism Back? Carolyn Bessette’s Lasting Influence

Annie Morgan
2026-03-16T13:19:23-04:00

Decades after Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy defined understated elegance, her approach to refined bags, delicate jewelry, and quietly luxurious accessories continues to shape what makes it onto our wishlists today.

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Minimalism is having a moment again, and the source of its resurgence is very clear. A recent series delving into the lives of John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette, has shed new light on the late couple’s impeccable style.

Nearly three decades after she first became a style icon, Carolyn Bessette’s understated approach to dressing continues to shape the accessories we gravitate toward today.

While her wardrobe was famously simple, it was her accessories that quietly defined the look: refined leather bags, delicate gold jewelry, slim sunglasses, and pieces that spoke through craftsmanship rather than logos.

CBK's signature minimalist style was created not through a wildly eclectic but via a capsule wardrobe, but through repetition: she wore things she loved, and she wore them time-and-time again.

Who Was Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy?

Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy was an American publicist and style icon known for her marriage to John F. Kennedy Jr. and for the understated elegance that defined her personal style in the 1990s.

Before entering the public spotlight, she worked in fashion as a publicist for Calvin Klein, where she became known for her polished aesthetic and sharp understanding of modern minimalism. Her background in the fashion industry shaped the refined, effortless wardrobe that would later captivate the public.

After marrying Kennedy in 1996, Bessette-Kennedy became one of the most photographed women of her time, admired for her quiet confidence and minimalist approach to dressing. She favored sleek silhouettes, neutral palettes, and timeless accessories rather than overt trends or logos.

Decades later, her influence remains strong; her simple leather bags, delicate jewelry, and clean-lined sunglasses still inspire modern luxury wardrobes and the enduring appeal of quiet sophistication.

The Accessories That Defined An Era

Bessette-Kennedy understood the power of restraint. Instead of layering statement pieces, she chose a few carefully selected accessories that elevated even the simplest outfit.

Nothing felt over-styled, yet everything looked intentional. Her choices embodied the philosophy that true luxury doesn’t need to be loud; it simply needs to be beautifully made.

Brands known for craftsmanship and subtle design, like Bottega Veneta, perfectly capture the spirit of this aesthetic. Their signature Intrecciato leather weave, for example, relies on texture and technique rather than visible branding; an approach that feels entirely aligned with Bessette-Kennedy’s sensibility.

What Designer Accessories Did Carolyn Bessette Own?

Hermès Birkin 40: In a tan color and in black

Hermès Kelly 28: In black Sellier

Cartier Tank Louis watch: In yellow gold with a black leather strap

Prada Spazzolato tote bag: Black patent leather

Yellow gold hoop earrings

Pearl necklace

The Return Of Quiet Luxury

This style ethos is a shift away from overt logos and statement-heavy designs. Instead, it relies on looking for timeless pieces that feel sophisticated without trying too hard.

A structured leather shoulder bag.

A slim gold chain necklace.

Black sunglasses.

Classic leather loafers.

These are accessories that complement a minimalist wardrobe rather than dominate it, exactly the kind of pieces Bessette-Kennedy gravitated toward.

Why Minimalist Accessories Work

Minimalist accessories are appealing because they offer longevity. A beautifully crafted leather bag or simple gold bracelet doesn’t feel tied to a particular trend cycle. Instead, it becomes a staple you reach for repeatedly.

This versatility is the foundation of modern luxury wardrobes. Rather than collecting dozens of trend-driven items, many shoppers are building smaller collections of exceptional pieces they can wear for years.

The result is a wardrobe that feels polished, cohesive, and effortless.

Building A Modern Minimalist Accessory Collection

If Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy were curating a wishlist today, it would likely center around a handful of timeless accessories:

A supple woven leather bag

A delicate gold chain necklace

Simple gold hoops or stud earrings

Slim rectangular sunglasses

A classic leather belt

Each piece would be chosen for its craftsmanship and versatility; items that could move seamlessly from day to night and season to season.

Why Pre-Owned Luxury Is The Perfect Choice

Minimalist accessories also lend themselves naturally to the world of pre-owned luxury. Because these pieces are designed with longevity in mind, they often remain just as desirable years later.

A well-made leather bag, a classic pair of sunglasses, or a piece of gold jewelry rarely goes out of style. Buying pre-owned allows shoppers to access these timeless designs while extending the life of beautifully crafted accessories.

For anyone building a thoughtful accessory collection, it’s a way to invest in quality while embracing a more sustainable approach to luxury.

The enduring appeal of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s style lies in its simplicity. She proved that you don’t need a wardrobe full of statement pieces to make an impact. Instead, a few impeccably chosen accessories can define an entire aesthetic.

As minimalism continues to shape fashion once again, it’s clear that her philosophy still resonates: choose fewer pieces, choose better ones, and let timeless design speak for itself.

Where To Buy Luxury Accessories?

Whether you are in the market for pristine pieces of love-worn designs, myGemma has a wide selection of designer brands with items across a number of accessory categories: from handbags and wallets to jewelry and bag charms.

You'll find big designer names, such as Hermès and Chanel, with items you can shop directly from our online store. Every item has been authenticated in-house by our army of experts before being listed on our website and app. You can shop with absolute confidence, knowing we guarantee authenticity or your money back.

Follow us on Instagram to see our latest arrivals and check out our Trustpilot reviews to see what our customers think of us.

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Where To Sell Designer Accessories Online?

If you are looking to streamline your designer accessories collection, then selling the pieces you no longer reach for is a great place to start.

At myGemma, we offer the full luxury resale experience. You can shop, trade in, consign, or sell directly through one easy-to-navigate website. However you decide you want to sell, simply fill out the online form below to receive your price quote.

When you decide to participate in the luxury resale cycle, you are helping contribute to a circular economy. This is both a positive for your wallet and for the planet.

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