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Your New '90s Style Inspiration Is Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy

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If you've not heard of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, it's time to get to know. The oft-referenced '90s style pin-up worked her way up from being a saleswoman at a Calvin Klein's Boston mall store to become the brand's director of publicity in Manhattan. Propelling her into the spotlight, however, was her meeting and marrying the son of JFK and Jackie Onassis, John F. Kennedy Jr., after which her every move - from domestic arguments outside of their Tribeca apartment to meals out - were documented by a paparazzi hungry for the next couple du jour.

Tragedy struck in July 1999 when the couple were killed in a plane crash in Martha's Vineyard, along with Carolyn's sister. The couple live on in our minds, and Bessette-Kennedy's personal style is still fawned over.

Her minimalist aesthetic and choice of men's blazers and crisp white shirts stood in stark contrast to the fabulous glamour of her mother-in-law and other famous politicians' wives of the time. Her loose hair and barely-there makeup, Alice bands and pencil skirts all embodied the effortless and moderate look of the decade, and now sit on a thousand Pinterest boards.

When Alessandro Michele's Gucci maximalism is enjoying a full reign, and Céline, post-Phoebe Philo, could be completely transformed under Hedi Slimane later this year, a look back at the understated style of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy is a dose of simplicity in the current climate of clashing textures and prints.

Ahead, we've rounded up our favourite looks turned out by Carolyn, from slick workwear to weekend casual get-ups. Click through to find all the minimalist inspiration you'll ever need.

This is how we're wearing our white shirt: with an open collar, folded cuff, and black trousers. Extra points for a sweet gold evening bag.

Photo: Evan Agostini/Getty Images

Mules? Check. Bandana? Check. Blazer? Check. Weekend style sorted.

Photo: Getty Images

We're digging oversized mannish blazers this season, and as CBK makes clear, all that's needed is a swipe of wine-stained lipstick.

Photo: Getty Images

Those square-toed boots could be a Uterqüe new season drop, if you ask us.

Photo: Getty Images

Okay, has a stronger case been made for bringing back elbow-length gloves? We think not.

Photo: Getty Images

Commuter looks being turned out by both Kennedys here. The micro sunnies, Alice band and top-handled bag give Carolyn the edge though.

Photo: Getty Images

Further proof that your black turtle neck and blue denim needs nothing more than a black coat.

Photo: Getty Images

Another fabulous bandana, we'll be copying this look next time we do some weekend window shopping.

Who'd have thought a red jacket and bootcut jeans could look this cool?

Photo: Evan Agostini/Liaison

Forget corseting details, all you need is a well-structured dinner jacket.

This riverside photo has us remiss to pack away our teddy coat from winter.

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