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Variety Plus Icon Read Next: Dolly Parton Tribute Special: How to Watch the CMA’s Celebration Live Online
Feb 20, 2026 1:53pm PT
The Kennedys Donned Some of the Chicest Sunglasses Throughout the ’90s: Here’s Wear to Buy Exact Replicas (And Dupes) Online
FX's "Love Story" has reignited an interest in the Kennedys' '90s-chic style
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Fashion has always been cyclical, and now it’s the Kennedy ’90s style that’s back in vogue.
FX’s “Love Story” has reignited public interest in the iconic American family, as it follows the mythologized relationship between JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy — from their tumultuous beginnings all the way to their tragic end.
JFK Jr.’s style can best be described as old money meets New York City, an offshoot of his father, John F. Kennedy’s classic, preppy yet presidential look. Regardless of which one you’re drawing fashion inspiration from — perhaps both — their style has proven timeless several decades later.
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The key to mirroring their look is rooted in accessories. Sunglasses, to be more specific. John F. Kennedy famously wore American Optical’s Saratoga Sunglasses throughout his presidency, sporting them in some of his most iconic photographs. The brand relaunched in 2022 and now carries this particular style in 12 colors and three sizes, giving everyone the range to channel their inner Kennedy.
American Optical
American Optical’s Saratoga Sunglasses
His son, meanwhile, opted for an edgier silhouette, often pictured in narrow sports-wrap sunglasses and circular rimmed sunglasses — both of which Paul Anthony Kelly dons as JFK. Jr in “Love Story.” Carolyn Bessette (portrayed by Sarah Pidgeon in the series) was also a fashion icon in her own right before her relationship with JFK Jr. began. She spent the ’90s climbing the ranks at Calvin Klein, entering as a sales associate and later becoming director of publicity for the Manhattan storefront.
Like JFK Jr. and his father, some of Bessette’s most recurring, iconic looks can be traced back to eyewear. Her signature look — black oval sunglasses and a thick headband — is a style that continues to occupy the mainstream 30 years later. Her go-to pair was the Aldo from the luxury eyewear company Selima Optique, but there are dozens of more affordable dupes also available online — a few of which we’ve rounded up below.
ASSOCIATED PRESS
The show is now streaming on Hulu and Disney+, with new episodes every Thursday at 6 p.m. PT/9 p.m. ET. Created by Connor Hines and executive produced by Ryan Murphy, it’s based on Elizabeth Beller’s biography, “Once Upon a Time: The Captivating Life of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy.”
While the show was met with critical acclaim, some were quick to critique those involved once it was reported that the Kennedy family was not consulted in the making of the project. Jack Schlossberg — JFK Jr.’s nephew, who is currently running for Congress — took to social media once the show began filming last summer to blast everyone involved. Despite the ongoing drama, viewers can’t get enough of New York City’s 90s it-couple.
Shop more eyewear inspired by the stylish couple below:
RB4335 Sunglasses
Graham Oval Black Sunglasses
Luv Buzz Small Oval Sunglasses
Khal Bio-Based
Zenith Oval Black Sunglasses
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