6 Pics Of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy That Showcase Her Simple Yet Chic Beauty Looks

Ryan Murphy's FX series "Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette" brought renewed attention to a couple whose relationship defined the late '90s celebrity fascination. While JFK Jr. was always a highly visible public figure, Bessette-Kennedy quickly became an icon in her own right, known for her exquisite personal style widely regarded as the epitome of the '90s minimalism look that made a comeback. But her influence went beyond clothing. Bessette-Kennedy's beauty approach reflected the same philosophy of restraint, as she often favored luminous skin, softly groomed brows, polished and unfussy hairstyles, and an understated lip color.

Whether she was photographed during her years at Calvin Klein, walking around New York City off-duty, or attending public events alongside JFK Jr., her looks remained remarkably consistent, closely aligning with what is now recognized as TikTok's "that girl" aesthetic – a pared-down approach centered on refinement, effortlessness, and subtle polish. Looking back at Bessette-Kennedy's most iconic beauty looks reveals how choosing consistency over chasing fleeting trends shaped her lasting influence.

Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy kept her beauty approach minimal and clean during her time working at Calvin Klein. Photos from this period show her favoring a little to no makeup look and natural hair texture over anything heavy or dramatic. Even at formal events she attended alongside John F. Kennedy Jr., including the 1996 Cartier Tank watch launch reception in Switzerland, the focus remained on subtle enhancement rather than visible makeup. Bessette-Kennedy clearly nailed the no-makeup makeup look like a pro. 

Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy's off-duty looks embodied a subtle beauty style. After marrying John F. Kennedy Jr., Bessette-Kennedy's every move was photographed, and her everyday beauty routine remained consistent. Often seen donning a black coat, she wore minimal visible makeup, her hair pulled back, and narrow sunglasses that subtly framed her features. By integrating flattering accessories like headbands and sunglasses into her look, Bessette-Kennedy allowed them to function as an extension of her beauty approach.

It was rare for Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy to deviate from her understated beauty looks, but when she did, a bold red lip often took center stage. Her public appearances alongside John F. Kennedy Jr. were among the few occasions when her beauty routine appeared slightly more defined. She maintained her signature foundation of luminous skin, softly groomed brows, and polished hairstyles, allowing her red lip to serve as the primary point of emphasis.

More than two years into her marriage, Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy's beauty routine remained the same, even at high-profile red carpet events. For the star-studded December 1998 Fire & Ice Ball in Los Angeles, California, Bessette-Kennedy forwent the traditional red carpet glam, and instead opted for her usual sheer coverage, softly groomed brows, and a bold red lip to maintain her signature elegance. The contrast felt intentional, reinforcing how effortlessly she was able to elevate her public appearances while staying true to her understated approach to beauty.

Whether she was living public life as a New York City socialite or working at Calvin Klein, Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy's beauty looks remained rooted in the minimalist philosophy she came to embrace during her time at the brand. Her sheer coverage, groomed thin brows, and neutral glossy lip look at the Whitney Museum's Annual Fundraising Gala in 1999 reflected that continuity. She rarely leaned into elaborate looks, often forgoing accessories that might compete with her understated aesthetic. The result was a beauty signature defined by intentional simplicity.

Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy demonstrated that bold glam and blowouts weren't always necessary to make an impact. At the Newman's Own/George Magazine Awards in May 1999, she once again relied on subtle definition and sleek styling rather than dramatic contrast. 

That same sensibility shaped one of her most influential beauty moments: her 1996 wedding, where a sleek bun and barely-there makeup emphasized natural texture over transformation. Even on one of her biggest days, Bessette-Kennedy maintained the same restraint she brought to everyday outings.