The enduring allure of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis extends far beyond her time as First Lady, captivating fashion enthusiasts and historians alike. Recently, a piece of her history – a striking purple wool coat worn on the momentous night her husband, John F. Kennedy, was elected president – fetched a remarkable $50,800 at a Sotheby’s auction. This event underscores the continued fascination with the Kennedy family’s style and the significant value placed on items connected to pivotal moments in American history. The sale highlights the power of Jacqueline Kennedy fashion and its lasting impact on popular culture.
A Coat Steeped in History: The 1960 Election Night
The coat, worn on November 8, 1960, represents more than just a garment; it’s a visual symbol of a changing era and the dawn of a new presidency. Jacqueline Kennedy, then eight months pregnant with John F. Kennedy Jr., made limited appearances during the campaign. Her presence was carefully curated, and this particular appearance, witnessing her husband’s victory, was especially poignant.
The image of a radiant Jacqueline Kennedy in the purple coat, standing beside the newly elected president, was instantly iconic. It graced the cover of Life Magazine just weeks later, cementing the look in the public consciousness. The coat’s simple yet elegant design, featuring pleats, a rounded collar, and six buttons, perfectly embodied the sophisticated style that would come to define her.
The Significance of the Color Purple
While the designer of the coat remains unknown, the choice of color – a vibrant shade of purple – is noteworthy. In the early 1960s, purple wasn’t as ubiquitous in fashion as it is today. It was a bold choice, suggesting a sense of royalty and optimism, fitting for the wife of a man about to enter the White House. The color also subtly contrasted with the predominantly masculine tones of the political landscape, highlighting Jacqueline Kennedy’s unique presence and style.
The Auction and its Aftermath: A Testament to Enduring Style
The Sotheby’s auction, held in New York City, saw intense bidding for the coat. Initially estimated to sell for between $6,000 and $8,000, the final price of $50,800 – over six times the high estimate – demonstrates the extraordinary demand for Kennedy memorabilia. This isn’t an isolated incident; items associated with the Kennedys consistently achieve high prices at auction, reflecting their enduring legacy.
The coat was consigned by an anonymous donor with ties to the Kennedy family, adding another layer of intrigue to its provenance. According to Sotheby’s, the coat had been shared amongst a small circle of friends during their pregnancies, and the current consignor was the daughter of the last friend to wear it. This personal connection further enhanced its appeal to collectors. The auction house noted that the coat retains its vibrant violet hue even after sixty-five years.
Beyond the Coat: The Broader Appeal of Kennedy Style
The success of this auction isn’t solely about the coat itself. It’s a reflection of the broader fascination with vintage fashion and the enduring influence of Jacqueline Kennedy’s style. She wasn’t just a trendsetter; she understood the power of clothing to convey a message and shape a public image. Her elegant suits, pillbox hats, and carefully chosen accessories became synonymous with grace, sophistication, and a modern approach to First Lady fashion.
This interest extends to other items owned by the Kennedys. In March of this year, a pair of John F. Kennedy’s underwear sold for $9,100 at a Julien’s Auctions event, proving that even the most personal items can become valuable collectibles. This demonstrates a deep-seated curiosity about the lives of this iconic family. The demand for historical clothing continues to grow, fueled by a desire to own a tangible piece of the past.
The Legacy Continues
Morgane Halimi, Sotheby’s global head of Handbags and Fashion, aptly described the coat as capturing “both an intimate personal story and a defining moment in American history.” The extraordinary response to the auction underscores the enduring power of objects that intersect history, emotion, and impeccable design.
The sale of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis’ election night coat serves as a powerful reminder of her lasting impact on fashion and American culture. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of classic style and the captivating allure of a bygone era. As more Kennedy artifacts come to auction, we can expect continued interest and high prices, solidifying their place in history and the hearts of collectors worldwide.
