The fashionistas of Los Angeles and beyond were buzzing when Carolyn Bessette Kennedy’s iconic Prada coat went under the hammer earlier this month. With a staggering auction price of $192,000, the camel coat set a world record for any item from her wardrobe. As rumors swirled faster than a beach breeze in Malibu, some fans speculated that Kim Kardashian might have been the mystery buyer.
As one Twitter user quipped, “I swear to God if Kim K pops up with it,” the chatter painted a picture of intrigue and fascination. Others described the purchase as “dystopian” and “morbid,” adding to the drama that often accompanies high-profile auctions.
However, all guesses landed off-target. Lucy Bishop, representing The Fashion Auctioneer, clarified that the coat’s new home is not with the Skims mogul but in a prestigious museum. Although the specific institution remains undisclosed, Bishop confirmed, “It really was a mix between fans and fashion-loving women, but also really serious private collectors, museums and institutions.”
Kim Kardashian, 45, was not a random guess among the bidders. Her penchant for acquiring legendary fashion relics is as well-documented as a Hollywood starlet's red carpet appearances. In 2017, she snagged a Cartier watch belonging to Jackie Kennedy Onassis for $379,500, sharing with Vogue that wearing it to the White House made her feel “empowered.” More recently, her Met Gala appearance in Marilyn Monroe’s “Happy Birthday, Mr. President” dress turned heads nationwide.
The record-setting garment, a double-faced wool angora design, was famously spotted on Bessette Kennedy in the late '90s. It originally belonged to RoseMarie Terenzio, JFK Jr.'s assistant, before being auctioned off by Michele Ammon. Terenzio also sold additional pieces from her collection, donating a portion of proceeds to Hearts of Gold, a nonprofit aiding homeless mothers.
In the wake of the FX series "Love Story," interest in Bessette Kennedy’s style has soared, reflecting a nostalgic nod to iconic '90s fashion. Bishop remarked, “Women all over the world are still fascinated by her and still adore her.” The potential for a museum exhibition dedicated to Bessette Kennedy’s wardrobe remains a wish for many.
Although Kim Kardashian didn't score the Prada coat, she continues to captivate audiences with her fashion acquisitions. Perhaps the next iconic piece will find its way into her wardrobe, where history meets modern-day glam.