Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, famed for her timeless and effortless style, was more than just the wife of John F. Kennedy Jr. She was a woman with dreams, aspirations, and a story that left a lasting impression on the American public. Her untimely death alongside her husband and sister in a tragic plane crash in 1999 left many wondering about the path she could have followed.
Born with a natural flair for fashion and a charismatic personality, Carolyn’s journey began far from the glamour of the fashion world. After graduating from Boston University with a degree in education, she started her career as an events organizer for a Boston nightclub management company, per Marie Claire. However, it wasn’t long before her innate style and magnetism caught the attention of the fashion industry.
Carolyn soon found herself working at a Calvin Klein store in Boston, where her keen eye for fashion didn’t go unnoticed. Recognizing her talent, the company quickly promoted her to a position handling celebrity relations in New York. It was this role that brought her into JFK Jr.’s orbit, sparking their high-profile romance.
In 1995, amid media frenzy over an explosive argument between the couple that made headlines, Carolyn made a bold decision. She chose to step away from her flourishing career at Calvin Klein to focus on her personal life. This move marked a new chapter in her life as she started her life with JFK Jr.
Though she was now part of the American political royalty as a member of the Kennedy family, Carolyn wasn’t content resting on her laurels. According to Real Housewives of New York star Carole Radziwill, a close friend and wife of John’s cousin Anthony, Carolyn had aspirations of pursuing a master’s degree in psychology. This unexpected, potential career pivot revealed a deeper layer to Carolyn, showcasing her empathy and understanding.
Could Carolyn have utilized these skills to provide counsel to others or become a beacon for mental health advocacy? Might the shadowed past of the Kennedy family have influenced this decision to delve into psychology? We can only speculate. Yet, one fact stands clear: Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy embodied ambition, drive, and resilience. She stood at the precipice of making her mark, not merely as a Kennedy, but as an individual fueled by her own dreams and aspirations.
Before you go, click here to see all the women JFK was accused of having affairs with during his marriage to Jackie Kennedy.. 
