PROFILE: Mr John F. Kennedy

Words - Taj Hayer 

As the US readies itself to welcome a new President in January 2021, we take a look at the most stylish resident of The White House. 

Credited with being influential in the relaxation of dress codes for men, JFK was a man that knew how to dress in the office and at home, with a style inherently influenced by the Ivy League. Good, looking, charismatic and at ease with himself and his style, he presented a new America and one that was free of the fussiness of its predecessors. 

As a young man, his style was typical of the Thirties, and images of the time show a fondness for wide lapels, accessories like collar pins and boutonnieres and a willingness to play by the rules. His style as a younger man was more daring than as President as suits were more daring, colours were lighter and less conformist and knitted ties and double breasted suits were not clothes that were becoming to a man that was leader of the free world. The suits were more often than not from Brooks Brothers, go whom JFK was a big fan. The go-to look for suits was slim, shoulders with little padding and flapped pockets with slim notched lapels on a single breasted jacket. 

As times have changed, the President has become even more iconic for his off duty style than he was for his Presidential style. Khaki slacks paired with vibrant socks and either boat shoes or penny loafers, he epitomised the gentleman at home in the Fifties. The weekend look was not about refinement, but about showcasing a sense of the responsible, reliable American husband and father, that was athletic and could easily enjoy a beer and a barbecue with. 

Accessories were of course, important. Day to day these would often include a pair of aviator sunglasses, 14 carat gold cufflinks, his Omega watch, a white pocket square and of course, the incredible Jackie on his arm. 

Accessories were of course, important. Day to day these would often include a pair of aviator sunglasses, 14 carat gold cufflinks, his Omega watch, a white pocket square and of course, the incredible Jackie on his arm.