We're going to be straightforward—these are the designers that should have dressed CBK on screen.

We're going to be straightforward—these are the designers that should have dressed CBK on screen.

      A Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy documentary is currently in production, and while I’m thrilled to see her return to the cultural scene, I must express my disappointment: the early glimpses of her wardrobe have been quite lackluster. The actress playing her bears a slight resemblance, but the styling leans more towards suburban mall brands rather than the minimalism of Fifth Avenue. It lacks the sharp tailoring, intentional luxury, and the impression that each item was thoughtfully selected, rather than just taken from a rack. CBK was not one for maximalism; she was very discerning. She bought fewer pieces, but when she did, they were well-crafted, devoid of logos, and often subtly expensive. (Notably, she famously removed the Prada tag from her ski apparel.) As someone who has thoroughly examined countless CBK street style photos, I’m advocating for specific brands that should have influenced the costume mood board. These brands truly capture the understated strength of her wardrobe and would have done her justice on screen.

      **Essentials From The Row**

      If anyone is currently embodying CBK's spirit, it’s The Row. The brand’s tailoring, color palette, and lack of logos reflect a luxury that whispers sophistication, and I suspect that her street style photos have frequently influenced the brand’s designs.

      - Fabian Leather Jacket

      - Alfidis Pleated Brushed Cotton and Cashmere-Blend Twill Wide-Leg Pants

      - Katara Ribbed-Knit Tank

      - Anitas Off-The-Shoulder Cape-Effect Cotton-Poplin Top

      - Enea Cotton Wide-Leg Pants

      **Accessories From Khaite**

      With sleek sunglasses, structured bags, and walkable heels that hint at subtle allure, it all exudes an “Upper West Side, but with an editorial twist.” CBK epitomized the Khaite aesthetic without even knowing it.

      - Benny Leather Belt

      - Loop Bead-Embellished Leather Sandals

      - Cate Leather-Trimmed Calf Hair Tote

      - Loop Leather Sandals

      - Lotus Small Textured Leather-Trimmed Canvas Tote

      - Cage Leather Sandals

      **Philo-Era Celine**

      The understated elegance of Phoebe Philo’s era at Celine seems perfectly suited for a contemporary CBK—sophisticated, intellectual, and effortlessly chic. If she were ever to participate in a campaign, it might be one persuading Philo to return to Celine.

      - Linen Crew Neck Blouse

      - Wayfarer Gradient Sunglasses

      - Leather Big Bag Bucket Small

      - Vintage Long Skirt

      - Silk Midi Length Skirt W/ Tags

      **Additional Staples From Toteme**

      Toteme offers refined basics that feel comfortable yet polished, akin to something she’d wear for a trip to Dean & DeLuca. The sharp outerwear and sleek knits exude “quiet confidence.”

      - Gathered Woven Top

      - Garderob Stretch-Jersey Midi Dress

      - Organic Cotton-Poplin Shirt

      - Garderob Tencel Lyocell and Organic Cotton-Blend Jersey T-Shirt

      - Garderob High-Rise Slim-Fit Organic Jeans

      **Evening Wear From Phoebe Philo**

      If the biopic features an event scene (which it should), the ideal choice is custom Phoebe Philo. It is understated yet impactful—just as CBK was.

      - Slicked Slip Dress

      - Parachute Skirt

      - Towelling T-Shirt Dress

      **Vacation Wear From Tove**

      For weekends in the Hamptons or casual getaways, Tove masterfully balances airy and structured designs. It’s minimalism infused with just the right touch of romance, featuring linen items that flow with the breeze (and the film's score).

      - Vina Gathered Stretch-Jersey Maxi Dress

      - Georgina Oversized Cotton Shirt

      - Izel Linen Bandeau Top

      - Devi Draped Gathered Jersey Maxi Dress

      - Mai Stretch-Jersey Straight-Leg Pants

      **Minimalist Statements From Jil Sander**

      There’s a unique quality to Jil Sander’s tailoring and collar finishes, which convey a level of refinement akin to an art exhibit. It’s fashion that doesn’t overexert itself—and neither did she.

      - Asymmetric Satin-Trimmed Wool-Twill Midi Shirt Dress

      - Metallic Leather Sandals

      - Wool-Gabardine Pants

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We're going to be straightforward—these are the designers that should have dressed CBK on screen.

If a biopic about Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy is ever produced, these are the contemporary minimalist brands we would like to see dressing her wardrobe—from The Row to Toteme and Phoebe Philo.