The couple got married in an extremely private ceremony
In September 1996, the two got married in a low-key ceremony with around 30 to 40 friends and family on Georgia’s Cumberland Island. Invitations were extended just a few days in advance, and guests had a short window to RSVP. As a result, nobody knew that they were there, keeping away the paparazzi. They had a floral-themed three-tier cake, but it was Carolyn’s dress that stole the spotlight. It was a long Narciso Rodriguez slip dress featuring a cowl neck, and the designer himself said that her sense of style wasn’t a “production” and that she always kept things looking natural, even when wearing a supposedly complicated piece.
John also wore a simple look with a navy suit and white shirt paired with a light blue tie. Carolyn’s sister Caroline was matron of honor, and Anthony Radziwill served as John’s best man.
Carolyn often supported charitable causes and worked with nonprofit organizations
Before her wedding, Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy quit her job due to a potential conflict of interest. At the time, John had just launched his political magazine, George, which would have made it difficult for Carolyn to keep working in fashion PR, as the magazine would have had many fashion ads in it. Carolyn was involved in the creative aspect of George but was also a major player in the nonprofit world, working with the Robin Hood Foundation and Newman’s Own. She was also interested in making documentaries. Over the years, Carolyn would appear at a variety of charity events and fundraising dinners to support the likes of NYC-based environmental organization Riverkeeper. They also showed support at the “Brite Nite Whitney” Fundraising Gala.
Her style continues to influence people after “Love Story” on FX premiered
It’s been over 20 years since John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy tragically passed away at such a young age. Their love story, which has long been plagued by rumors of affairs, has been given new life in the FX show “Love Story.” The show stars Sarah Pidgeon as Carolyn and Paul Anthony Kelly as John. The show has logged 25 million hours of watch time as of March 5, 2026. With a new generation being introduced to the couple (and their style), Carolyn’s style has dominated social media, with TikTokers recreating the minimalist outfits for their audiences. Stylist Liz Teich spoke to The Guardian, commenting, “Everyone is trying to copy her outfits after watching ‘Love Story.’”