JFK Jr. Core: Effortless Style For Modern Men

The other day, I stepped outside and was immediately almost run over by a biker. The funny part was that the twenty-something man barreling toward me was riding a classic collegiate road bike with drop handlebars that he seemed almost too large for. He was also dressed head-to-toe in perfectly laissez-faire attire, right down to the backwards cap. As someone thoroughly obsessed with Love Story, I almost instinctively tossed my hair into a side part and bit my lip at the JFK Jr. look-alike—even though he was the one who had nearly caused a catastrophe.

But perhaps that’s fitting, considering the famously chaotic love story between Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy and John F. Kennedy Jr. 

In the past month, since Love Story’s release, I’ve been entirely preoccupied with the revived advocacy for Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s style. Turns out, the series’ style inspiration isn’t just for the girls. The boys are also taking a page from JFK Jr.’s style book. 

Men’s fashion is channeling major JFK Jr.-core energy, with its three-piece suits, pleated dress pants, and “normal guy” energy. 

JFK Jr. was never trying to be fashionable, yet he somehow became a blueprint for men’s style. He was preppy without ever feeling Vineyard Vines and business-ready without being formal. With his baggy pants, crewneck sweaters, linen pieces, and, of course, a backwards cap, JFK Jr. was a perfect match for CBK’s effortless sophistication. Even in sporty attire, his style was smart, sensible, and ultimately cool.  

It’s funny how a style that feels so simple can suddenly feel so aspirational again. Maybe it’s the nostalgia, maybe it’s the quiet confidence—but JFK Jr.-core proves that sometimes the most effortless looks leave the biggest impact. And if the boys are finally catching on? Even better.

If you’re ready to channel that low-key, off-duty Kennedy energy, scroll down to my FizzyPicks and start building your own modern-day love story wardrobe.

POLO RALPH LAUREN
Men's Lightweight Windbreaker
$185

POLO RALPH LAUREN
Logo-Embroidered Waffle-Knit Wool And Cotton-Blend Polo Sweater
$170

RALPH LAUREN
Classic Fit Slub Linen Shirt
$185

LE ALFRÉ
Le Rugby Classique Rugby Shirt
$125

J.CREW
Cashmere V-Neck Sweater
$178

THEORY
Riland Crewneck Sweater
$195

FRAME
Wide Leg Trousers
$548

ABERCROMBIE & FITCH
Pleated Baggy Trouser
$95

ABERCROMBIE & FITCH
Essential Slim Ribbed Henley
$50

ZARA
Relaxed Fit Flowy Shirt
$69.90

THE ROW
Holman Vest
$1,150

SPORTY & RICH
Signature Logo Embroidered Crewneck
$175

SPORTY & RICH
BH Riding Club Gym Short
$110

SPORTY & RICH
SRC Oversized Shirt
$210

ASOS
Sleeveless Deep V Neck Regular Shirt
$34.99

J.CREW
Classic-Fit Linen Trouser
$128

KHAITE
Vito Hat
$580

TODD SYNDER
Seersucker Cap
$98

BUCK MASON
Japanese Cool Cashmere L/S Knit Polo
$168

BUCK MASON
Japanese Denim Ford Standard Denim
$198