Get the Look: How the Resurgence of ’90s Minimalism Is Defining Spring Fashion in 2026

’90s fashion has made a comeback in recent years. Clean lines, high-quality staple pieces and a neutral wardrobe all encompass that “less is more” look that defines ’90s minimalism. 

This style has recently been further propelled with the release of Love Story, the FX TV show depicting the tumultuous, public-facing relationship between John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy (CBK) when they started dating in 1994. Although set a couple of decades ago, this high-profile American romance has taken a new generation of fashion lovers by storm. 

CBK’s chic, polished looks are emblematic of other pop culture fashion icons at the time, like Sex and the City’s Charlotte York, Rachel Green from Friends or Shalom Harlow. And with Love Story getting plenty of attention recently, this particular ’90s minimalistic style is being dubbed as “so-CBK.”

Here’s how to shop three of CBK’s classy, tailored looks at Canadian retailers to achieve that quintessential throwback style in 2026.

Look #1: Model-Off-Duty Sleek

 

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One can never go wrong in jeans, a white t-shirt, black boots and a fitted black coat: the trifecta of closet staples.

Having a good-quality t-shirt on hand is a must, like this crew neck tee ($60) from B.C. brand Kit and Ace. ’90s minimalism was centred on a “less is more” approach, where a white t-shirt could dress a look up or down. While you can buy a simple white t-shirt from any store, quality matters for a versatile closet staple that you’ll be more inclined to reach for. 

A good pair of jeans can be hard to come by. Jeans from the local Vancouver brand, DUER, have gained popularity. They’re form-fitting with just the right amount of wiggle room. A good dark blue wash pair of jeans, like this high-rise, wide-leg pair from DUER ($139), is definitely a staple to have in your closet. Dress it up with a statement shirt, or opt for Carolyn’s look and pair it with a white t-shirt. 

A tortoiseshell headband ($14.50) from Tsawwassen-based Ma Maison and Co adds a unique touch that every outfit needs. While Carolyn sported black oval sunglasses in this look (like these from Kits Eyewear, $58), opt for a pair that works with your face shape and what you feel most comfortable in. Complete the ’90s look with black heeled boots and a black coat to bring the outfit together.  

Look #2: CBK’s Funny Face Moment

 

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Sarah Pidgeon portrays CBK in Love Story, recreating this simple, yet classy and polished look that gives Audrey Hepburn in Funny Face a run for her money. Black long-sleeve high-neck top, fitted black ankle pants and black loafers—an iconic look from CBK (and Audrey). 

If you’re a working professional, odds are you likely have staples like black slacks hidden somewhere in the closet. These pieces, like the Milan Loafer from Poppy Barley ($315), are so easy to style. If you’re feeling fancy, pair the outfit with some gold hoops. Or, if you truly want to emulate CBK, forgo the earrings altogether.

Look #3: Introducing Carolyn Bessette Kennedy 

 

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Carolyn wore a refined, modest look as she and JFK Jr. faced the press after their wedding and honeymoon in 1996. Sporting a fitted long-sleeved black V-neck, tan skirt and brown heeled boots, CBK (officially) continued to wow with her polished, tailored looks.

This simple yet stylish look to introduce Carolyn as Carolyn Bessette Kennedy is very Calvin Klein coded (where she used to work as a publicist). Carolyn typically opted for jeans or pants, so the skirt adds a certain je ne sais quoi. This is another easy-to-achieve outfit made from mix-and-match pieces, perfect for a nice dinner, a day at the office or a walk in the city with your partner.