From Calvin Klein to Prada—Everything I'm Buying in 2026 to Look Like '90s CBK
Busy watching "Love Story" and building my dream wardrobe.
I'm not going to lie: I had my doubts about Love Story, Ryan Murphy's series on FX about Carolyn Bessette and John F. Kennedy Jr. I, like so many others spanning all generations, feel an attachment to the couple, and particularly, to Bessette. She's been my number-one style inspiration for much of my life, not because of the labels she wore, but because of how she wore clothes—with ease and elegance, whether she was donning jeans and flip-flops in Cape Cod or attending a museum gala on the Upper East Side. The paparazzi photos taken from the set of the series nearly ruined it for me, but I'm glad I gave it a chance. It is just right, so much so that I cannot stop watching, which, in turn, has transformed my Instagram feed to be even more CBK-focused than normal.
While I wait for episode four to drop, I thought I'd use my time wisely and get to work sourcing some pieces that check off those same boxes that Bessette's style always achieved. Much of her wardrobe was made up of classic, elevated basics, but she also wasn't afraid to test the boundaries, adding in more artistic pieces by Yohji Yamamoto and the occasional bold print, from leopard to plaid. The curation below is meant to mimic that balance, as well as modernize it, including all 2026 pieces that could still feel at home in Bessette's closet. From Calvin Klein and Prada to Kallmeyer and Toteme, keep scrolling to shop all 32 items on my Carolyn Bessette inspired timeless shopping list for 2026.
A CBK-Inspired Timeless Shopping List for 2026
I've been in love with this collarless blazer since it debuted on the runway. Though the shape is perhaps a bit boxier than what Carolyn Bessette preferred in the '90s, I think today, she would have loved the interesting shape.
This cashmere-silk sleeveless knit is a dream, whether you pair it with a pencil skirt like it's styled above or with Carolyn's favorite jeans, Levi's 517s.
These jeans have a similar look, with a subtle flaring at the bottom, however, they have a lower waist, which is becoming more and more popular in 2026.
I can't stop thinking about these perfect Jimmy Choo leopard-print loafers. They remind me of Carolyn's iconic snakeskin heeled loafers by Prada, and are perfect to go with jeans and a sweater.
For a chilly morning at the Cape, I can totally see modern-day Carolyn wearing this maxi cardigan coat by Lisa Yang with jeans, flip-flops, and a
Duh. It's literally called the Bessette headband.
This dress is so Carolyn coded, both IRL and in the show, Love Story. The real Carolyn wore one like it with long velvet opera gloves, but in the show, Sarah Pidgeon donned the Calvin Klein strapless frock more simply. I can actually see her wearing it with this jacket and these loafers as well for a more dressed-down, day-after look.
Since I already own and love the reissued version of Carolyn's favorite Prada from 1995, I thought I'd look into another shoulder bag that feels like her. I adore the kisslock closure on this Jil Sander alternative.
Skirts were an area where Carolyn had a bit of fun, so I feel like she'd be very into this chocolate-brown, velvet column skirt from Blazé Milano. The texture and color combine to create such a rich piece.
Carolyn rarely wore jewelry, but when she did, it was usually just a simple pair of pearl studs.
A classic, elegant tank top to style with jeans, skirts, and more.
I think Carolyn would have loved High Sport. Their pants are so easy to toss on and look sophisticated in.
A classic choice that makes every outfit better.
For galas and beyond.
This satin pencil skirt would have gotten so much wear at the Calvin Klein office.
The perfect boots for wearing with black skirts and white button-down shirts.
A simple turtleneck in the front, a daring statement in the back.
Just a really good belt.
Though she loved her classic blue 517s, Carolyn wasn't afraid to venture out into other denim options, like khaki or brown jeans.
Jamie Haller's loafers are beloved by fashion people everywhere for their sleek look and ultra-comfortable fit.
The blue lenses are a stretch, but I think modern-day Carolyn would be down to try them.
I mean, I had to include this incredible Nour Hammour coat in leopard-print pony hair.
Another piece of jewelry Carolyn made an exception for: Cartier's Tank watch.
Everyone thinks of Carolyn Bessette's city style, but her laid-back looks at the beach were just as chic.
Easy.
We usually saw Carolyn carrying a black bag, but I think she would have loved this cognac-colored Prada tote, at least once she beat it up a little.
Pearls were her thing, clearly.
The elegance! I can't stand it.
I get the feeling that these would have been heavy in Carolyn's 2026 rotation, just like they will be in mine.
Perfect for tucking into skirts and jeans.
Maybe this is a stretch, but I think the cool texture of this skirt would have called out to Carolyn, especially in her younger years.
