Vogue College Presents welcomed author Sunita Kumar Nair and WWD’s Fashion Editor Hikmat Mohammed to speak at the College for the first industry college-wide talk of the new year to discuss Sunita’s accalimed book ‘CBK: A Life in Fashion‘. MA Fashion Journalism and Editorial Direction student, Bethan Gwynne reports…
Vogue College of Fashion had the privilege of hosting Sunita Kumar Nair, author of the acclaimed CBK: A Life in Fashion, a book that has captivated the fashion literary world. In a lively discussion with Hikmat Mohammed, fashion editor at WWD, Sunita shared insights into her creative process, personal connections to Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, and the meticulous research that shaped her book. Guided by Hikmat’s thoughtful questions, the event unfolded into an engaging hour-long exploration of the enigmatic style icon, Carolyn Bessette Kennedy.
At its heart, CBK: A Life in Fashion is more than a book; it’s a heartfelt tribute to an icon who redefined effortless elegance. Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, known for her minimalist aesthetic and captivating mystique, mesmerised the world in the 1990s. Sunita’s book seeks to immortalise her enduring influence on fashion. With a foreword by designer Gabriela Hearst and a preface by former British Vogue Editor-in-Chief Edward Enninful, the book exudes sartorial authority. Each page features stunning photography, from archival images to curated visuals that highlight Bessette Kennedy’s understated yet commanding style. Her wardrobe—characterised by sleek sheath dresses, tailored pantsuits, and elegant accessories—remains timeless and relevant decades later.
The narrative is enriched with personal anecdotes from fashion luminaries like Calvin Klein and Michael Kors, offering readers an intimate glimpse into a woman who embodied the philosophy of “less is more.” Nair’s meticulous research and sharp eye elevate this work from a coffee-table accessory to a profound exploration of the intersection of fashion and identity.
The discussion began with Sunita recounting her first encounter with Carolyn—spotting her on the cover of a gossip magazine.
“There was just something that stood out… even though it was on the cover of a gossip magazine, she just stood out,” she recalled.
Sunita’s admiration for Carolyn was palpable as she spoke about her favourite pieces from Carolyn’s wardrobe, including the iconic Yohji Yamamoto AW98 obi gown paired with velvet opera gloves worn to the Municipal Art Society gala in 1998.
Though deeply passionate about fashion from a young age, Sunita’s career path wasn’t linear. She studied Classics at Manchester University and initially considered pursuing law. However, a transformative dinner conversation with Laurence Olivier’s grandson redirected her ambitions. A year as a trainee buyer at Arcadia led to an internship at Dazed and Confused magazine, igniting her interest in writing and styling. This trajectory included roles at Wallpaper magazine, The Sunday Times Style, and assisting in New York and at W Magazine, where she delved deeply into Carolyn’s world.
Sunita identified a gap in the market for a comprehensive exploration of Carolyn’s influence. Despite her untimely death in July 1999, Carolyn’s style continues to inspire. Sunita recounted a conversation with a Central Saint Martin’s lecturer who noted that at least one student annually uses Carolyn’s looks as design inspiration.
“That’s the smartest kid in the class, right?” remarked Fabien Baron, quoted in the book.
Pinpointing what made Carolyn’s style so unique is no easy task. The book dissects key elements like “the white shirt,” “the slip dress,” and “the casual.” Yet, it is Carolyn’s overall commitment to pared-back elegance that captivates. Emerging in the 1990s as a counterpoint to the bold maximalism of the 1980s—characterised by broad shoulders, bright colours, and oversized accessories—her aesthetic was a breath of fresh air.
“She was unique in her choices,” Sunita explained. “I think she really should have been wearing Chanel or Dior, given her social standing and who she was married to. But she just went her own way, and she chose designers that were really only for the fashion crowd, I think. Like Jil Sander, Helmut Lang, and Yohji Yamamoto.”
Before becoming JFK Jr.’s wife, Carolyn was a career woman in her own right. Her rise from the Calvin Klein shop floor to director of show productions demonstrated her innate sense of style. She quickly became part of Calvin’s inner circle, alongside muses like Kelly Klein.
“I think because she was on the radar of the design room, Calvin would then notice her,” Sunita noted. “She quickly became part of Calvin’s inner circle, and she would hang out with Kelly Klein.”
Carolyn’s style, a blend of simplicity and sophistication, solidified her place in history as an icon of class and elegance. This was no small feat, considering her mother-in-law was Jackie Kennedy Onassis. Beyond her fashion choices, Carolyn’s life in the public eye was challenging. Sunita reflected on the relentless scrutiny Carolyn endured after marrying into the Kennedy family.
Drawing parallels to figures like Hillary Clinton and Courtney Love, Sunita highlighted how the 1990s press often vilified women associated with high-profile men. Carolyn was no exception, bearing the brunt of criticism while striving to maintain her privacy. Despite these challenges, Carolyn’s legacy endures. Her untimely death at 33 immortalised her as a style time capsule, inspiring modern icons like Meghan Markle, Angelina Jolie, and Hailey Bieber.
“There is this inspirational side to her, and an aspirational side, that I think we can all draw from,” Sunita observed.
For fans of Carolyn Bessette Kennedy or those who believe in the power of timeless style, CBK: A Life in Fashion is a treasure trove of inspiration. It’s a poignant reminder that true icons don’t merely follow fashion—they shape it. With its elegant design and compelling storytelling, Sunita Kumar Nair’s book is destined to become a cherished addition to the collections of fashion enthusiasts worldwide.
Words by Bethan Gwynne, MA Fashion Journalism & Editorial Direction student
Images by Ella Cranfield, BA (Hons) Fashion Communication & Industry Practice student
