This article explores the upcoming auction of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy's iconic wardrobe, highlighting her lasting influence on minimalist fashion. It delves into the provenance of the items, from direct gifts to her assistant to pieces acquired by a private collector, and discusses how this event offers a unique opportunity for fashion enthusiasts to own a part of her legendary style, especially in light of recent media portrayals.
Own a Piece of Timeless Elegance: Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy's Wardrobe Goes Up for Auction
The Enduring Allure of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy's Distinctive Style
In October 1998, a seemingly ordinary photograph captured Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy walking her dog in Tribeca. Yet, her appearance—draped in a perfectly tailored camel Prada coat, with her hair neatly swept back—transformed everyday restraint into a profound fashion statement. This image, characterized by its cool, composed, and almost austere aesthetic, has since become a perpetually referenced fashion moment of the late 20th century. It frequently appears on digital mood boards and social media dedicated to her distinct style and '90s chic. Now, decades later, this very coat, along with other items from Bessette-Kennedy’s personal collection, is being showcased in Chelsea as part of an auction celebrating her enduring sartorial impact.
A Glimpse into the Auction: Curated Pieces from a Fashion Icon
Today, independent auctioneer Lucy Bishop, known as The Fashion Auctioneer, has commenced bidding on 25 exclusive lots from Bessette-Kennedy’s wardrobe. Four of these items originate directly from Bessette-Kennedy’s own closet, having been given to Rosemarie Terenzio, John F. Kennedy Jr.’s longtime assistant and former staff member at George magazine, in the 1990s. The remaining garments possess a more intriguing backstory, sourced from an anonymous private collector who also lent her Bessette-Kennedy treasures to the costume department of Love Story, a television series executive produced by Ryan Murphy.
Highlighting the Coveted Collection: Iconic Coats and Tailored Separates
Among the most anticipated items in the auction are two different camel Prada coats that Bessette-Kennedy frequently wore in the late 1990s. One of these is famously associated with her 1998 dog walk, and both were often seen during her outings with JFK Jr. in downtown New York. Also available is an eggshell-white Prada coat, which Terenzio recalls Bessette-Kennedy giving her, deeming it "too Miami" for New York's climate. A Yohji Yamamoto evening ensemble, featuring beaded cuffs, reflects the sleek and serious aesthetic she favored for formal gatherings, including White House events. Additionally, a selection of Prada separates—including a camel skirt, structured outerwear, and glossy patent shoulder bags—showcases the disciplined and consistent uniform she wore daily.
The Legacy of Generosity: Rosemarie Terenzio's Connection to Bessette-Kennedy's Wardrobe
Rosemarie Terenzio shared her memories with Vogue, describing Bessette-Kennedy as a "fairy godmother" who was exceptionally generous with her time and clothing. Terenzio noted that Bessette-Kennedy possessed a keen eye for what would suit her, and her gifts were always perfectly chosen. Terenzio cherished these pieces for many years and believes it is now time for others to appreciate them. This sentiment underscores the personal connection and thoughtful curation behind the auction.
The Journey to Auction: A Decade of Determination
The auction, meticulously organized by Bishop, has been nearly a decade in the making. Bishop was first approached by the private collector—who wishes to remain anonymous due to various non-disclosure agreements—almost ten years ago while working at a London auction house. Her initial attempt to propose the auction was met with skepticism from management, who believed there would be no interest. Bishop, however, held a different view.
Renewed Efforts and Verified Provenance: The Second Attempt at Sotheby's
Last year, during her tenure at Sotheby’s, Bishop made another attempt to organize an auction featuring Kennedy-Bessette’s personal effects. Remembering Terenzio's past gifts from Bessette-Kennedy, she reached out. She introduced herself and inquired, "You don't happen to still have those clothes, do you?" Terenzio confirmed she did, leading to Bishop's first CBK auction in December 2024. This initial sale saw three coats—a black Prada, a vintage leopard print, and a Yohji Yamamoto jacket—fetch a combined $177,600, purchased by designer Sarah Staudinger, a long-time admirer of Bessette-Kennedy's style. The success of this sale clearly demonstrated the market's interest.
The Current Sale: Direct Gifts and Unverified Acquisitions
For the current sale, four more garments are directly traceable to Terenzio. She expressed her trust in Lucy, acknowledging that Bishop deeply understands the emotional value of these beautiful clothes. These items include the two Prada coats most frequently photographed on Bessette-Kennedy and carry the highest estimated values in the auction. Their clean lines, neutral tones, and impeccable tailoring perfectly embody the disciplined elegance that continues to define modern minimalism.
The Mysterious Provenance: Unverified Items from a Dedicated Collector
The remaining 21 pieces are from the anonymous private collector, a devoted Bessette-Kennedy fan who first contacted Bishop years ago. According to the auction catalog, this collector acquired the items in 2017 via eBay from a seller who presented them as "seen on Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy." Subsequent communications revealed additional items, with the seller claiming they originally belonged to Bessette-Kennedy, obtained from a former George magazine staffer in 2011. Despite Bishop's efforts, she has been unable to contact either the staffer or the original seller, thus rendering the provenance of this collection unverified. The sale estimates for these items reflect this uncertainty.
Television's Influence on Fashion Authenticity: The Love Story Series
Meanwhile, the ongoing discussion surrounding the television series Love Story has created a vibrant backdrop for the auction. When initial images from the show were released last year, viewers meticulously scrutinized every detail, from the hair color of Sarah Pidgeon (cast as Bessette-Kennedy) to the subtle inaccuracies in the cut of a camel coat. This intense public interest highlighted the iconic status of Bessette-Kennedy’s images in New York. Bishop noted that everyone recognizes her distinctive camel coat, and the strong reaction confirms how iconic those images remain.
Bridging the Gap: Authenticity in Production and Fashion's Lasting Impact
The production of the show subsequently adjusted its approach. Several authentic vintage pieces, identical to those Bessette-Kennedy wore, were sourced, including items from the very same private collector participating in this auction. Bishop believes the final outcome of the series is now significantly closer to reality, remarking that the show looks "fantastic" and that there's a clear difference when original vintage pieces are utilized. For devoted followers of Bessette-Kennedy, the chance to view these garments in person transcends a mere shopping experience; it represents a significant, almost sacred, journey. The items will be publicly displayed at 149 West 27th Street in Chelsea on Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Bidding is currently open and concludes on March 3rd.
