5 Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy Headbands From Coach and J.Crew

I, as most New York City fashion girls, am utterly transfixed by the effortlessly polished aesthetics of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy. The recent release of the limited-series Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette prompted me to embrace quiet luxury pieces worn by the ‘90s style icon. Notably, I’m all in on Bessette-Kennedy’s signature acetate headbands, which practically became synonymous with her eternally chic look.    

Everything about Bessette-Kennedy’s style is classic and unfussy—her buttery blonde locks were no exception. Never overdone, her covetable hair was rarely styled beyond a knotted chignon or, of course, a sleek headband. To emulate her effortless appearance, I found five luxe hair accessories that look nearly identical to the flat-band picks Bessette-Kennedy made a name for—starting at just $14 apiece.  

Mere minutes after pressing play on Love Story, I snagged RPZL’s Samantha Acetate Headband. The $30 gem is the definition of CBK-coded down to its thick width and timeless tortoise pattern. Though my jet-black, high-maintenance bob is the polar opposite of Bessette-Kennedy’s honey hair, I can confirm that the style is oh-so-flattering. At this point, I’ve scored a treasure trove of hair accessories from RPZL, and the quality is unmatched considering the low price point.

If you’re not ready to commit to Bessette-Kennedy’s ultra-thick headbands, opt for this J.Crew option that boasts a more low-key look. The style has the same sophisticated air, but a thinner, easy-to-style design. Naturally, it comes in a versatile tortoise colorway that’s right on par with what CBK would grab. 

Headbands are hot right now, and they’re not going anywhere anytime soon. So, you may as well stock up on this two-pack from Anthropologie with styles going for $14 apiece. You’ll find a Bessette-Kennedy-inspired tortoise option, plus a sleek solid style that’ll look great with anything. Both bands have a super thick structure that instantly elevates every ensemble.    

This is your sign to treat yourself to a designer headband, because let’s face it: You’ll be styling it for seasons to come. I’m swooning over Coach’s leather iteration of the classic accessory. The hair band marries a polished, preppy aesthetic with subtle edge thanks to its black, glossy sheen. Plus, it doesn’t scream flashy designer (very CBK) thanks to its subtle hardware appliqué.

Before heading to checkout, be sure to consider Emi Jay’s Starlet Tortoise Headband. Let’s just say, there’s a reason why celebrities like Kendall Jenner and Hailey Bieber are fans of the expensive-looking accessory brand. You can’t go wrong with this thick, tortoise, acetate headband, which features a dainty heart detail that’ll bring in plenty of compliments. 

Run to snag these Bessette-Kennedy-coded headbands while they’re available from $14 apiece.