Iconic Kennedy Sunglasses from the '90s Inspire New Fashion Trends

JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette's classic eyewear looks are back in style thanks to the new FX series "Love Story"

Feb. 20, 2026 at 9:53pm

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The new FX series "Love Story" has reignited public interest in the iconic fashion of JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy in the 1990s. Their signature sunglasses styles, including JFK Jr.'s narrow sports-wrap frames and Carolyn's black oval shades, have become sought-after looks that can now be replicated with modern reproductions and dupes available online.

Why it matters

The renewed fascination with the Kennedys' 90s style highlights fashion's cyclical nature, as trends from decades past continue to influence contemporary style. The show's popularity has also sparked some controversy, with JFK Jr.'s nephew criticizing the project for not consulting the Kennedy family.

The details

JFK Jr.'s style was a blend of his father's classic, preppy look and a more edgy New York City aesthetic, often seen in his choice of narrow sports-wrap and circular rimmed sunglasses. Carolyn Bessette, who worked her way up at Calvin Klein, became known for her signature black oval sunglasses and thick headband look. While Bessette's go-to shades were from the luxury brand Selima Optique, more affordable dupes are now widely available online.

  • The new FX series "Love Story" premiered in February 2026 and is streaming on Hulu and Disney+.
  • American Optical, the brand behind JFK's iconic Saratoga Sunglasses, relaunched the style in 2022.

The players

JFK Jr.

The son of President John F. Kennedy, known for his classic yet edgy New York style, including his choice of narrow sports-wrap and circular rimmed sunglasses.

Carolyn Bessette

Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, who rose through the ranks at Calvin Klein and became known for her signature black oval sunglasses and thick headband look.

John F. Kennedy

The 35th President of the United States, known for his preppy yet presidential style, including his fondness for American Optical's Saratoga Sunglasses.

Jack Schlossberg

JFK Jr.'s nephew, who is currently running for Congress and has criticized the makers of the "Love Story" series for not consulting the Kennedy family.

Selima Optique

The luxury eyewear company that produced Carolyn Bessette's signature black oval sunglasses.

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What’s next

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The takeaway

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