Sunday, May 22, 2011

My First Style Icon: Jacqueline Lee Bouvier Kennedy Onassis

For traditional African American Southern families like mine, the Kennedys are our version of the royal family. If there is any special on the Kennedys on television, we will watch it together and older generations discuss growing up during the Kennedy era. Regardless of political beliefs or perceptions, the world became enamored with all things Kennedy during the 1960s. But for the ladies, it was all about Jackie Kennedy! Jacqueline Kennedy served as the First Lady to John F. Kennedy, the 35th president of the United States. Jacqueline Kennedy became the youngest First Lady of the US, at age 31. Jackie Kennedy is also lovingly known as Jackie O after her second marriage after the death of JFK.
If there were Southern Belle bylaws, there would be a rule that says that Jackie Kennedy is THE style icon for all southern belles and to say differently is blasphemy!  Jackie O was my mother's first style icon and became my first style icon as well. Ever since we were little, my mom taught my sister and I all about the style and fashion of Jackie Kennedy. You would think that Jackie was her personal friend lol! She showed us pictures and made us watch specials about the Kennedys. To this day I can still hear my mom say, "Jackie loved her pillbox hats." Jacqueline's favorite designers included Chanel suits, dresses by Valentino and Givenchy, and ensembles by Dior. Her signature A-line dresses, over-the-elbow gloves, and pearls became known as the "Jackie look." She also adored jewelry by Van Cleef and Arpels. Her signature dark sunglasses and Hermes scarves were a staple in her extensive wardrobe. I believe that Jackie O's look is luxurious, classic and everlasting. I hope some day I can teach my own daughter about the style of Jackie Kennedy Onassis. Thanks mom for introducing me to my first style icon, America's sweetheart!
  Stunning as a bride at her wedding to JFK. The gown was designed 
by Anne Lowe, a black designer!


Jackie Kennedy's signature A-line dresses, white gloves, & pearls!

  







Triple stranded Kenneth Jay Lane pearl necklace made famous during her time at the White House


  

The infamous Pink Chanel suit that she wore the day her husband 
was assassinated in Dallas, Texas. 


The October 2009 issue of Vanity Fair. Jackie Kennedy is an eternal style icon!



Many designers have created collections inspired by Jackie Kennedy Onassis, especially her signature sunglasses that she is most known for. Here is the Nina Ricci "Jackie O" sunglasses collection
 



                                                        

                    Class & grace, but definitely style!

"Sex is a bad thing because it rumples the clothes." Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis


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