2 min readTo my surprise, Carolyn Kennedy Bessette’s go-to pair of jeans was, in fact, not a pair of Levi’s 501s—the now-legendary denim cut that has become the standard for a classic silhouette. Then again, icons don’t become icons for doing what everyone else does. Instead, the late ’90s fashion publicist and wife to John F. Kennedy Jr. opted for a classic bootcut jean—to be more specific, the Levi’s 517 silhouette.
For those who may not know, the 517 was originally designed for men, and is still available to shop today. The brand eventually designed a version on this relaxed bootcut jean for women, which is what Bessette Kennedy dubbed her tried-and-true. Naturally, the denim lover I am, I needed to try a pair for msyelf. And lucky for me, I didn’t have to wade into the depths of vintage denim—Levi’s still makes the style, albeit a modernized take on it. What’s more is that it’s currently on sale for less than $80.
After trying on the pair twice and wearing them for a day, I get why Bessette Kennedy didn’t bother with anything else. The moment I slid these on, I thought, “these are insanely flattering.” And now I need everyone to own a pair. I truly don’t know what sort of magic is happening with these jeans, given that I own other bootcut styles, but they lengthen the leg to the point where my 5’4” frame reads more like 5’7” (maybe I’m also delusional?)—and I wasn’t even wearing shoes at that point. And with a composition of 99 percent cotton and one percent Lycra, the material feels high quality with just the right amount of stretch to ensure all-day comfort.
I opted for the 32-inch inseam, which I found to be the perfect length for when I want to wear a chic little ankle boot or heel to dress them up. Of course, if you prefer to wear cool sneakers with your jeans, it might be worth considering a shorter inseam that allows you to walk freely without thinking about the bell flare dragging behind you.
Like Bessette Kennedy, I’ve been pairing these with my everyday staples, making them an easy fit with my capsule wardrobe—a white T-shirt, a simple crewneck sweater, a fitted blazer, what have you. Wear these for your off-duty moments or a casual day at the office—and if you need some style inspo, take it from the face of ’90s minimalism. If it’s good enough for her, it’s good enough for you.
Shop the Levi’s Wedgie Bootcut Jean
Levi’s Wedgie Bootcut Jean
Now 30% Off
Levi’s Wedgie Bootcut Jean
Now 30% Off
Levi’s Wedgie Bootcut Jean
Now 30% Off
Levi’s Wedgie Bootcut Jean
Now 30% Off
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