7 times Meghan Markle channeled Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s iconic style

Over the years, Meghan Markle has repeatedly drawn inspiration from Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, the 1990s style icon whose refined, minimalist aesthetic continues to influence fashion decades later. Most recently, she leaned into her signature brand of quiet luxury for her latest appearance in Beverly Hills.

From red-carpet evenings to casual outings, Meghan’s wardrobe choices often echo Carolyn’s effortless elegance, proving that timeless simplicity never goes out of style.

1. Wedding dress admiration turned inspiration:

Long before her own royal wedding, Meghan expressed admiration for Carolyn’s iconic 1996 wedding dress by Narciso Rodriguez. In a 2016 interview with Glamour, she called it “Everything goals.” 

Meghan added, “Classic and simple is the name of the game, perhaps with a modern twist. I personally prefer wedding dresses that are whimsical or subtly romantic.” Two years later, her own 2018 bridal gown by Clare Waight Keller reflected a similar ethos, sleek, understated, and elegant.

2. First Royal outing homage:

For her first official royal appearance after her engagement to Prince Harry in 2017, Meghan wore a camel Joseph skirt, a fitted black jumper, and knee-high boots, paired with a black purse. 

The ensemble mirrored an outfit Carolyn wore in 1996 during a public appearance with JFK Jr. outside their Tribeca apartment. At the time, fashion experts highlighted their shared ability to project individuality through minimalist pieces.

3. The casual classics:

Meghan’s casual wardrobe has also echoed Carolyn’s understated style. For her first public appearance as Harry’s girlfriend in 2017, Meghan wore ripped Mother jeans paired with a crisp white Misha Nonoo Oxford shirt.

It was an outfit strikingly reminiscent of Carolyn’s Labor Day look in 1996, which featured rolled-up sleeves, ripped jeans, and tousled hair. Both women clearly favor a relaxed yet polished approach to everyday dressing.

4. Eveningwear elegance:

Meghan has repeatedly chosen evening looks that nod to Carolyn’s signature simplicity. In 2016, she wore a Cedric Charlier strapless gown reminiscent of Carolyn’s gala ensemble at the Municipal Arts Society in 1998. 

Similarly, her preference for asymmetric necklines, seen in her 2018 Black Halo ‘Jackie O’ dress, echoes Carolyn’s White House appearance in 1998, blending minimalism with modern sophistication.

5. Monochrome and minimal accessories:

Both Meghan and Carolyn share a love for monochromatic ensembles and restrained jewelry. Meghan’s monochrome looks, like her outfit for the 2019 Smart Works launch (Jigsaw trousers and a Misha Nonoo shirt), mirror Carolyn’s all-black ensembles at Hyannis Port in 1998. 

Accessories are always understated, from delicate chains to simple gold hoops, reinforcing their philosophy that less truly is more.

6. Everyday chic in 2023–2026:

Even in casual settings, Meghan channels Carolyn. In a 2023 appearance at the Invictus Games, Meghan wore a J.Crew top and Frame skinny jeans, recalling Carolyn’s post-honeymoon denim-and-T-shirt combination. 

More recently, in an Instagram Stories video from March 16, 2026, Meghan arranged flowers wearing a wide velvet headband and black turtleneck, both staples of Carolyn’s wardrobe, filmed playfully by Prince Harry.

7. Recent red carpet looks:

Meghan’s 2025 Paris Fashion Week appearance further demonstrated her admiration for Carolyn’s clean, modern lines. She wore an all-cream ensemble from Balenciaga’s Spring/Summer 2026 collection, including a button-down blouse, wide-leg trousers, and matching shawl, layered with black pumps and a clutch. 

The look reinforced Meghan’s dedication to timeless simplicity, a hallmark of Carolyn’s style. From weddings to casual outings, Meghan Markle has consistently drawn inspiration from Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s minimalist elegance.