L'HISTOIRE: Jackie Kennedy Onassis' 1970 Boho-Chic Dress
She arrived at La Côte Basque restaurant in New York City in a striking red dress that continues to inspire. The boho-chic comeback of late, whether at Valentino or Chloé, echo the true trendsetter's 1970 ensemble.
L’HISTOIRE explores fashion history moments you should know, from what actors wore on a red carpet to celebrities who made cameos on the runway. Some are unsung, and some are better known. Each is part of the fabric of today’s fashion world, be it barrier breakers or culture makers.
Serving as the First Lady of the United States requires wearing many hats, and Jackie Kennedy Onassis was one who wore them, literally and figuratively, with grace and distinction. She was admired not only for her resilience, but also for her style and praise as a fashion icon, inspiring wardrobes and brands around the world to this day. From her pillbox hats to her tweed skirt suits, every accessory and piece became an emblem of refined taste in the White House. Things changed afterwards, however.
Kennedy arrived at La Côte Basque restaurant in New York City on November 14, 1970, wearing a red ruffled organza dress paired with a gold velvet bow cinched at the waist. This frock reflected a shift in her wardrobe, moving away from her buttoned-up sets to a more relaxed look that aligned with the evolving trends of the late 1960s and early 1970s. This semi-sheer look blended her classic feminine look with understated ease. The cascading ruffles carried an ethereal and almost romantic quality, while the velvet gold belt added a touch of sophistication. This bohemian-inspired look resonated with the free-spirited sensibilities of the time, proving that her sartorial choices were always in tune with contemporary trends.
Over five decades later, Kennedy's red ruffled dress still feels remarkably relevant. The boho-chic aesthetic—marked by flowing fabrics, earthy tones, and romantic detailing—continues to inspire designers and dominate runways. Chloé’s Fall/Winter 2024 collection by Chemena Kamali and Alessandro Michele's Valentino, for example, mirror components of Jackie O’s iconic ensemble. (She was famously a Valentino client, too.) These recent designs embody a modern interpretation of boho-chic, with delicate textures, soft hues, and flattering, flowy silhouettes that seamlessly blend the past and present.
Jackie’s red dress serves as a reminder of how timeless her style truly was. It’s not just the garments she wore, but it's also the poised way she carried herself that continues to captivate today’s fashion enthusiasts and designers alike. To recreate the look, opt for a Siedrés' floor-length option, Ulla Johnson's plissé satin number, or Asos' more affordable take.
