Ryan Murphy’s new FX series “Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette” is sparking a revival of interest in JFK Jr.’s iconic style. The show’s costume designer, Rudy Mance, aimed to portray the Kennedys accurately, especially through their clothing.
K JFK Jr’s style was characterized by his willingness to try new things and take fashion risks. He regularly wore suits with bold accessories and experimented with different combinations of menswear pieces. His wardrobe philosophy reflected his globe-trotting lifestyle and experiences.
The show features meticulously recreated outfits from actual footage and invented looks inspired by John’s daily life. Many of the styles are based on or inspired by his everyday photos, showcasing a mix of upscale menswear and quirky accessories.
While some may argue that JFK Jr.’s style was only appealing due to his conventionally attractive appearance, the show highlights that dressing well and expressing personal panache is its own reward. The “JFK Jr. effect” is inspiring young men to adopt John’s style, but it’s not about emulating his looks; it’s about feeling grown-up, pulled-together, and adventurous.
The revival of JFK Jr.’s style serves as a reminder that fashion can be a powerful tool for self-expression and confidence. As content creators continue to pay homage to the iconic style, it’s clear that John’s influence will endure long after his passing.
Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/style/fashion/2026/02/27/love-story-fashion-jfk-effect