American Icons: Jackie Kennedy Onassis

When we consider the role of the modern day First Lady, much of what we imagine can be credited to the standard set by the iconic Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. During her time in the White House, Jacqueline Kennedy, also known as “Jackie”, helped redefine not only the role of First Lady, but also the increasing independence of women in society. Gone were the days of mindlessly smiling through silly luncheons and choreographed public appearances – Jackie O made it very clear of her intent to rewrite the rules of what it meant to be a First Lady. 

In addition to her journalism background and linguistic pursuits (she was fluent in French, Spanish AND Italian), Jackie Kennedy was heralded for her advocacy of the arts and keen attention to aesthetics. Throughout a presidency that eventually became known as “Camelot”, Jackie and her husband were known to play host to various artists, composers, and playwrights just as often as they did world leaders and other prominent political figures. Jackie also kick-started efforts to refurbish a long-neglected White House and helped promote the preservation of many important historical artifacts.

Alongside her dynamic contributions to preserving a proud American culture and supporting the arts, Jackie Kennedy was also known as a trendsetter in the fashion world. Her iconic style personified grace and elegance with a confident sense of independence. Jackie Kennedy’s fashionable appearance, in addition to her naturally photogenic look, earned her spots on numerous “Best Dressed” lists throughout the 1960s. Soon enough, women began to reimagine their wardrobe in search of achieving the chic, sophisticated “Jackie O look”.

Of the many defining characteristics of the iconic Jackie O look, the most influential was her signature over-sized sunglasses, eventually referred to as Jackie O’s. These unique shades were a lavish addition to Jackie Kennedy’s exquisite wardrobe that worked to maintain the subtle mysteriousness that solidified her elegant look. Still a mainstay in popular fashion, the Ray-Ban Jackie Ohh and other equally as beautiful Sunglasses inspired by the Jackie O style can be seen on the faces of those looking to achieve that chic, fashion-forward look. These popular Sunglasses have become a staple of modern fashion due to their ability to capture the unique beauty and elegance exemplified by the iconic Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. 

Words of an icon: “Once you can express yourself, you can tell the world what you want from it.” –Jackie Kennedy