I’m Channelling Carolyn Bessette Kennedy This Spring—12 Zara Pieces I'm Choosing to Re-Create Her Style
Widely regarded as the first lady of '90s minimalism, CBK's pared-back approach to dressing has become the stuff of fashion legend. Scroll down to discover the 11 Zara pieces we think she'd love in 2026.
If, like me, you have fallen down a Love Story-shaped rabbit hole, you’re probably utterly obsessed with the style of Carolyn Bassette Kennedy. Widely regarded as the poster girl for '90s minimalism, her pared-back approach to dressing has become the stuff of fashion legend and has also solidified her as one of my most cherished style icons.
She was on my mind when I recently decided to undertake a spring capsule-wardrobe rejig, which identified a few gaps in my roster. From her signature straight-leg denim to her penchant for knee-length skirts, my options were looking decidedly bleak in comparison. But before biting the bullet and investing in any new CBK-coded pieces, test-driving the aesthetic seemed only sensible (just to ensure I truly aligned with the vibe). So, I did what I always do when in search of an expensive-looking fix: I headed to Zara.
Zara is a treasure trove of accessible, trend-led pieces that often punch way above their price point, and it quickly became clear that its digital shelves are currently full of pieces inspired by CBK, like structured skirts, soft knits, ankle-grazing trousers and supple leather loafers. It basically feels like a '90s-fashion time capsule, and a sneak peek of sorts into her enviable wardrobe.
Having sifted through reams of polished buys, below are 11 I think Carolyn herself would be eager to own, from the perfect blue jeans to a simple loose white shirt.
11 Carolyn Bessette Kennedy-Coded Zara Buys
Every wardrobe needs a versatile oversized white shirt.
Carolyn was constantly pictured in mid-wash, straight-leg Levi's jeans, but this Zara pair looks almost identical.
I can't believe these leather loafers are only £35.
This could have stepped straight out of the '90s.
This is exactly how I'll be dressing for the forseeable.
I feel like she'd pair this with strappy slingbacks and an oversized coat.
The perfect lightweight knitted top for spring.
Calvin Klein, eat your heart out.
Such an elegant fabric and length.
These have just jumped to the top of my spring wish list.
With a loose, oversized cut, this looks almost identical to Carolyn's signature blazer.
She was regularly pictured in a pair of mules just like these.
