Carolyn Bessett Kennedy’s legacy continues to influence fashion nearly 30 years after her tragic passing in a plane crash. Known for her elegant yet understated style, she’s left behind a mark that resonates even today.
One standout item from her wardrobe is a $36, ¾-inch tortoiseshell headband by French brand Charles J. Wahba. This piece has recently surged in popularity, thanks in part to social media, particularly a TikTok video that highlighted its connection to Bessett Kennedy.
According to Co Bigelow Pharmacy owner Ian Ginsberg, this trend has drawn numerous fashion enthusiasts to their West Village store, where they still stock these iconic headbands. “I think it was a TikTok video that ignited the interest,” he mentioned, referring to a tourist from the Netherlands who filmed it during their 2023 visit to New York.
While it’s unclear when the store initially started selling the French-made accessories, Ginsberg suspects that Bessett Kennedy may have played a role in popularizing them among shoppers.
The topic of Bessett Kennedy has resurfaced due to the upcoming FX drama, *American Love Story*, which focuses on her and John F. Kennedy Jr. As a result, many are gravitating toward the places she frequented, as confirmed by reports from 2023.
Her style—characterized by minimalistic, no-frills accessories—was frequently captured by paparazzi, showcasing her with oval black sunglasses and understated pieces.
Sales of these headbands have boomed, especially after being featured on TikTok, with Ian noting that there wasn’t a major revival before this surge in interest. “Demand never really died,” his son Alec added, emphasizing the steady appeal of Bessett Kennedy’s aesthetic.
Makeup artist Olivia Ballard shared her enthusiasm, stating, “The headband is definitely worth the hype. They feel very high quality with various widths and colors.” Comfort is essential for her, and she appreciates the diverse patterns and colors that resonate with her taste.
Carolina Dellio, the beauty manager at the store, recollects that when she started a decade ago, the range was limited to just three colors of tortoiseshell. Now, more vibrant shades, like hot pink and coral, are available, appealing to a younger demographic.
Co Bigelow, a family-run establishment since 1838, has attracted diverse clientele, from Eleanor Roosevelt to modern-day influencers. It’s not just a pharmacy; it epitomizes a rich history intertwined with fashion.
Accessories expert Natalie O’Rourke creates displays to highlight the tortoiseshell headbands, ensuring they catch customers’ eyes. Aside from Co Bigelow, they can also be found at Zitomer on Madison Avenue, where Bessett Kennedy was known to shop for various items.
These hair accessories are available in approximately 80 salons and shops across the country, though the brand itself lacks any online presence. Bessett Kennedy, known for her minimalist approach, often combined power pieces from high-end brands with simple, practical items.
Her timeless fashion sense continues to inspire many today. Ballard expressed, “So many New Yorkers and TikTok users are drawn to her style—it’s clean, classic, yet distinctively hers.” This fascination lies in her unique ability to make even simple outfits appear effortlessly chic.
Influencer Beverly Hart reiterated this sentiment, noting that while other icons may showcase fashionable yet impractical clothing, Bessett Kennedy’s looks remain practical and accessible for daily wear. Her signature outfits, comprised of comfortable shoes and simple silhouettes, are relevant now, making her legacy enduring.
