Cracking the Code on Carolyn Bessette Kennedy's Iconic '90s Beauty Routine

Discover the essentials behind her seemingly effortless look.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 5:00pm

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Effortlessly chic and timelessly natural, Carolyn Bessette Kennedy's classic '90s beauty is once again capturing our attention. After some serious sleuthing, this article pieces together exactly how to emulate her signature look, from her flawless complexion and minimal eye makeup to her glossy, highlighted hair and delicate, musky fragrance.

Why it matters

Bessette Kennedy's approach to beauty was refreshingly simple and relatable, paring her regimen down to the essentials every woman already has in her makeup bag. Her iconic look has long been the subject of fascination, and with a new streaming series about her life, fans are eager to decode the secrets behind her timeless aesthetic.

The details

Bessette Kennedy gravitated toward a matte complexion, occasionally opting for a softer, dewier finish. Her go-to foundation was reportedly MAC Studio Fix Powder Plus. For eyes, she kept things minimal, favoring a barely-there look with the occasional sweep of mascara and liner. Her lip routine sparked debate, with beauty experts speculating about the exact shades of her perfect red lip. As for fragrance, she was said to favor a rare Egyptian musk oil with hints of white musk, myrrh, and rose. Bessette Kennedy's hair was impressively glossy and sleek, likely achieved through frequent highlights and the use of products like Kiehl's Creme with Silk Groom.

  • The new streaming series 'Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette' is currently releasing new episodes each week.

The players

Carolyn Bessette Kennedy

An American socialite and the wife of John F. Kennedy Jr., known for her effortlessly chic and timeless '90s beauty aesthetic.

Laura Tarafa

A commerce writer for ELLE.com who conducted research and drew on her experience to identify the best products for achieving a natural, effortless beauty routine inspired by Carolyn Bessette Kennedy.

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What they’re saying

“Effortlessly chic and timelessly natural, Carolyn Bessette Kennedy's classic '90s beauty is once again capturing our attention.”

— Laura Tarafa, ELLE.com commerce writer

The takeaway

Carolyn Bessette Kennedy's approach to beauty was refreshingly simple and relatable, proving that effortless glamour can be achieved with just a few essential products. Her iconic look has endured as a timeless inspiration for women seeking a natural, understated aesthetic.