Since the documentary series, the archives of the 90s resurface and a face stands out: that of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy. Matte complexion, berry lips, low bun, discreet musk; its aesthetic inspires a new generation in search of quiet chic.
Behind this naturalness, however, hides a real method. By combining biographies, old testimonials and beauty decryptions, we can reconstruct a simple but ultra-structured Carolyn Bessette Kennedy beauty routine, which can now be adapted to any lifestyle.
Complexion and eyes: worked minimalism
First step, the skin: Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy liked a matte but velvety finish, never powdery. MAC Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation powder is often cited as its ally, applied in a light veil only where shine and redness appear.
The rest of the makeup remained just as discreet. On the eyes, a light beige shadow like Bone by Bobbi Brown unified the eyelid, completed with a very fine line of brown or black pencil, slightly blended, then a single coat of mascara to open the eyes.
90s lips: impeccable berry
His mouth has become iconic. Makeup artists regularly cite the MAC Lip Pencil in Spice shade, sometimes Cool Spice, combined with the Face Stockholm Cranberry Veil lipstick, a shiny translucent berry which outlines the contour while revealing the natural texture of the lips.
To recreate that ’90s makeup look, trace the contour then blend lightly inwards, before applying grape lipstick or with your finger for a more diffused finish. On days, she was content with a simple chic moisturizing balm, sometimes barely tinted.
Hair and perfume: the musk and blond aura
Her naturally brown hair was lightened with fine highlights, often around the face, similar to today’s Scandi blonding. To achieve this smooth and shiny fall, Carolyn relied on disciplining creams like Kiehl’s Creme with Silk Groom, ideal for smoothing a low bun or ponytail.
Last touch of his routine, perfume. Elizabeth Beller’s biography evokes a rare Egyptian Musk Oil, an Egyptian musk oil with notes of white musk, myrrh and rose, applied by touches to the pulse points for a very intimate effect, which inspired creations like Narciso Rodriguez For Her.
How to reproduce Carolyn Bessette’s beauty routine?
Focus on four elements: matte complexion, very muted eyes, translucent berry lips, demure straightened hair and a clean musk oil applied close to the skin.
Which lipstick for the Bessette-Kennedy look?
A cult combo: MAC Lip Pencil Spice or Cool Spice pencil with Face Stockholm Cranberry Veil translucent berry lipstick.
What Egyptian musk perfume did Carolyn wear?
Biographies mention Egyptian Musk Oil, Egyptian musk oil with sweet notes of white musk, myrrh and rose, applied in very small quantities.
