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Jackie and Cassini: A Fashion Love Affair That Defined an Era

Dylan Hayes

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Jackie Kennedy And Oleg Cassini At A Fashion Show Jackie And Cassini: A Fashion Love Affair

Jackie Kennedy, the epitome of elegance and style, and Oleg Cassini, the renowned fashion designer, shared a creative partnership that forever changed the landscape of fashion. Their collaboration, spanning over a decade, produced some of the most iconic gowns and looks that defined the mid-century era and cemented Jackie's status as a global fashion icon.

The Serendipitous Encounter

The first meeting between Jackie Kennedy and Oleg Cassini was serendipitous. In 1960, as John F. Kennedy prepared for his presidential campaign, his wife, Jackie, sought a designer who could create a wardrobe that would reflect her unique style and the demands of the political stage.

Jackie and Cassini: A Fashion Love Affair

by Lauren Marino

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	31802 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	152 pages

Cassini, a Russian-born designer with a prestigious clientele, was recommended to Jackie by her close friend, society columnist Ann Slater. The initial meeting sparked an instant connection, and Cassini immediately understood Jackie's vision for a chic and sophisticated wardrobe.

A Collaborative Masterpiece

Jackie and Cassini embarked on a collaborative journey, working closely together to develop a wardrobe that would not only flatter Jackie's petite frame but also convey the image of a modern and stylish First Lady. Cassini's designs showcased Jackie's graceful silhouette, emphasizing her elegant necklines and wasp-waisted figures.

One of their most famous creations was the iconic pink silk suit worn by Jackie at President Kennedy's inauguration in 1961. The suit, which featured a simple shift dress and matching pillbox hat, became an instant fashion sensation, defining the "Jackie look" that would be imitated by women around the world.

Beyond the White House

Their collaboration continued beyond the White House years. Jackie remained a loyal client of Cassini, and the designer continued to create gowns for her most important occasions. Some of their most memorable creations include the emerald green gown worn by Jackie to the Vienna State Opera in 1961 and the white lace gown worn for her wedding to Aristotle Onassis in 1968.

A Legacy of Style

The fashion love affair between Jackie and Cassini left an indelible mark on the world of style and elegance. Their collaboration not only defined an era but also set new standards for political fashion and established Jackie Kennedy as a timeless fashion icon.

In 2018, Cassini's archive was acquired by the Dallas Museum of Art. The archive includes over 700 garments, sketches, and accessories that document the legendary collaboration between Jackie and Cassini. The collection provides a glimpse into their creative process and serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of their fashion love affair.

Shop the Book

Dive deeper into the captivating story behind Jackie and Cassini's fashion collaboration with the acclaimed book "Jackie and Cassini: A Fashion Love Affair." This beautifully illustrated volume features: