Downtown New York It Girls have made their choice clear: they're constantly sporting Carolyn Bessette Kennedy's preferred bag trend.
Against all expectations, after a few questionable costume choices last summer (which have since been fixed), Ryan Murphy's Love Story has become a genuine success. Consequently, the series, which depicts the romance between Carolyn Bessette Kennedy and John F. Kennedy Jr., has sparked an unexpected revival of '90s minimalism. It seems that a new generation has just stumbled upon Bessette Kennedy's iconic style. A quick glance at social media will confirm this: there is no shortage of fashion enthusiasts attempting to recreate the essence of her signature look.
What truly made Bessette Kennedy's style unique was its personal nature. She maintained a consistent wardrobe, dressing in a manner that resonated with her true self. She did not chase trends and was largely indifferent to others’ opinions. She embraced Yohji Yamamoto and Prada long before they became popular. Therefore, simply donning a basic black turtleneck and trousers does not make one embody CBK. Her style encompassed much more than that. However, I would suggest that one of the simplest ways to capture some of her spirit is through her handbags.
Carolyn favored understated black top-handle bags, often from Prada. In today's climate, where certain bags achieve celebrity status and suffer from overexposure, she can remind us all of the importance of investing in timeless pieces rather than fleeting trends. Her handbags complemented all her outfits due to their simplicity and ease of styling. Bessette Kennedy's bags were a genuine reflection of her use—they were functional. This authenticity is what established her as a fashion icon. Recently, while walking in New York, I observed several flashy vintage bags and the latest luxury It bags being carried by stylish women from Brooklyn to Uptown. However, I noticed a growing number of the most fashionable individuals opting for a simple black top-handle bag, myself included.
After Love Story premiered, I decided to purchase a sleek black Prada tote from the '90s, featuring long, slender straps with small silver buckles. While my style differs from CBK's, I echoed her spirit in this little way: by wearing something I adore and can use repeatedly. Believe me when I say this is what all the stylish girls in New York are embracing right now, and it's the most authentic means to recreate her aesthetic without imitating it directly.
Explore the trend of CBK-inspired top-handle bags:
Celine
Teen Nino Bag in Supple Grained Calfskin
Veronica Beard
Dash Leather Clutch Bag
Tory Burch
Petite Lee Radziwill Double Bag
Anthropologie
Melie Bianco Lana Shoulder Bag
Free People
We the Free Baby Emerson Tote Bag
Miu Miu
Shiny Leather Top Handle Bag
Free People
Sierra Suede Shoulder Bag
Reformation
Camille Shoulder Bag
Reformation
Peppa Top Handle
Prada
Large Leather Tote Bag
Prada
Bonnie Leather Mini Top Handle Bag
Miu Miu
Shiny Leather Top-Handle Bag
Jacquemus
Black La Croisière Turismo Bag
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Downtown New York It Girls have made their choice clear: they're constantly sporting Carolyn Bessette Kennedy's preferred bag trend.
I can't seem to get enough of it.
