Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy would have likely been embarrassed by the cult following that now surrounds her personal style. The former Calvin Klein publicist turned wife of John F. Kennedy Jr. was notoriously private and self-effacing, making her elusive in life and even more so 25 years after her passing. Nonetheless, her influence on fashion only seems to grow stronger with time. The poster girl for '90s minimalism and quiet luxury, there is no closet in history more coveted than hers—with very few exceptions. And we're about to see why, as Sotheby’s prepares to present three jackets from her personal collection for their second annual Fashion Icons sale in December.
Personally gifted by Carolyn to consignor RoseMarie Terenzio—John F. Kennedy Jr.’s former assistant and confidante—each garment is a testament to the late It Girl's generosity, taste, and timeless appeal. The auction includes a vintage faux-leopard fur coat; a Prada single-breasted black wool coat Carolyn wore to Bill Clinton's 1997 inauguration; and a Yohji Yamamoto black wool jacket she wore to the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Medal event in 1997.
