Jacqueline Kennedy, better known as Jackie Kennedy, remains an enduring symbol of fashion and elegance.
Her impeccable style and sophisticated fashion choices not only captured the hearts of Americans but also left an indelible mark on global fashion.
This transformation from Jacqueline Bouvier to a worldwide fashion icon was catalyzed by John F. Kennedy's election as President, making her the First Lady of the United States from 1961 to 1963.
This article explores when and how Jackie Kennedy became a fashion icon, examining her influence on fashion trends, designers, and the cultural impact of her style.
The Early Days: Establishing Her Style
Before becoming First Lady, Jacqueline Lee Bouvier's fashion sense was already garnering attention.
Born to a wealthy family, Jackie had access to the finest clothes and designers from a young age.
She studied at Vassar College and George Washington University, where her sophisticated yet understated style began to take shape.
Even during her courtship with John F. Kennedy, Jackie’s fashion choices were noted for their elegance.
She favored tailored suits, classic lines, and high-quality fabrics, setting herself apart from the more flamboyant styles of the time.
However, it wasn’t until her husband’s inauguration as the 35th president that Jackie Kennedy’s style would elevate her status to that of a global fashion icon.
Jackie Kennedy as First Lady: The Fashion Renaissance
When John F. Kennedy was elected president in 1960, Jackie Kennedy stepped into the role of First Lady with grace and poise.
Her new public platform allowed her to influence fashion on a broader scale, and she seized the opportunity to set trends that would define a generation.
The Inauguration Ensemble
Jackie Kennedy's ascendancy to fashion icon status began with her husband’s inauguration on January 20, 1961.
She wore a stunning Oleg Cassini-designed ensemble featuring a wool coat, matching pillbox hat, and elbow-length gloves.
This outfit wasn't just meticulously elegant; it represented a fresh, modern approach to First Lady fashion. The inauguration look solidified her image in the public eye and set the tone for her role as a style icon.
The Pillbox Hat and Other Signature Styles
One of Jackie's most enduring fashion legacies is the popularization of the pillbox hat. This simple yet chic accessory became her signature piece and was quickly adopted by women across America and beyond.
Designed by Halston, the pillbox hat was both practical and stylish, embodying Jackie’s approach to fashion.
Jackie also championed tailored suits, A-line dresses, and sleeveless shifts, each characterized by clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic.
Her affinity for pastel colors, such as powder blue, pinks, and yellows, added a soft femininity to her look.
She often accessorized with pearls, oversized sunglasses, and chic gloves, further refining her sophisticated style.
Embracing French Fashion
Jackie Kennedy's influence extended to the designers she chose, many of whom were French.
She had a particular affection for the works of Hubert de Givenchy and Coco Chanel, which she frequently wore during her official duties as First Lady.
Her decision to embrace French fashion was significant; it positioned her as a bridge between American elegance and European haute couture.
By promoting French designers, Jackie not only showcased her cosmopolitan taste but also elevated America’s fashion profile on the world stage.
Her support helped globalize fashion, encouraging America to embrace more international styles and trends.
The Cultural Impact of Jackie Kennedy's Fashion
Jackie Kennedy’s fashion choices had a profound impact on American society. She brought a sense of glamour and sophistication to the White House that had not been seen since the days of Dolley Madison.
Her style was not just about clothing; it was an extension of her persona—graceful, poised, and polished.
Influencing Women's Fashion
The public's fascination with Jackie Kennedy's style led to what became known as "Jackie Look." Women across the country imitated her outfits, hairstyles, and even her mannerisms.
Retailers quickly caught on, offering affordable versions of her attire and making high fashion accessible to the everyday woman.
Jackie’s influence extended beyond aesthetics; she also impacted the fashion industry economically.
Designers and brands saw increased demand for items she wore, resulting in significant boosts in sales. Her endorsement was akin to a modern-day celebrity influencer, albeit on a far grander scale.
The Role of Media
Media played a significant role in solidifying Jackie Kennedy's status as a fashion icon.
Magazines like Vogue, Life, and Harper’s Bazaar featured extensive coverage of her outfits, often with detailed breakdowns of her look.
Photographs of Jackie attending state functions, traveling abroad, or simply spending time with her family were eagerly consumed by the public.
This widespread media coverage amplified her influence and established her as a trendsetter whose impact went well beyond the walls of the White House.
The media portrayal of Jackie as a style icon further reinforced her cultural significance, immortalizing her in the annals of fashion history.
Jackie Kennedy’s Enduring Legacy
Despite her tenure as First Lady lasting less than three years, Jackie Kennedy’s influence on fashion remains unshakeable.
After the tragic assassination of President Kennedy in November 1963, Jackie continued to resonate as a symbol of elegance and resilience.
Her iconic pink Chanel suit, worn on that fateful day, became a poignant symbol of her grace under pressure and further cemented her legacy.
Post-White House Influence
Jackie Kennedy's fashion influence didn’t end with her role as First Lady. In the years that followed, she continued to be a style icon, known for her chic casual looks and understated elegance.
Her marriage to Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis in 1968 introduced a new chapter of her fashion evolution, showcasing a more relaxed yet sophisticated style that remained true to her roots.
Modern-Day Inspirations
Contemporary designers often cite Jackie Kennedy as an inspiration, and her timeless style continues to be a reference point in fashion circles.
Her influence can be seen in collections from high-profile designers and in the wardrobes of modern influencers and celebrities.
The timeless appeal of her style lies in its simplicity and elegance—qualities that transcend fashion’s ever-changing trends.
Jackie Kennedy’s transformation into a fashion icon began the moment she assumed her role as First Lady of the United States.
Her impeccable sense of style, characterized by clean lines, elegant ensembles, and an affinity for French designers, set her apart as a beacon of grace and sophistication.
The widespread media coverage and public admiration for her fashion choices amplified her influence, making her a trendsetter and a symbol of American chic.
Her legacy endures not just in fashion but also in the cultural history of the United States.
Jackie Kennedy's unique ability to combine elegance with accessibility paved the way for future First Ladies and public figures, ensuring that her influence would be felt for generations to come.
From the pillbox hat to her tailored suits, Jackie's timeless elegance continues to inspire, making her an everlasting fashion icon.
