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American Love Story Overhauls Costume Approach After Styling Backlash

Murphy’s team has formed a 10-member style advisory board to guide wardrobe choices using original Bessette-Kennedy items for accuracy

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A tortoise shell headband and kick-flare jeans are among the key elements of Bessette-Kennedy's signature look.
The fashion publicist's laid-back style has been lauded for more than two decades.
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Overview

  • First look images released in mid-June showing Sarah Pidgeon in Converse sneakers and modern hair color drew widespread criticism for straying from Bessette-Kennedy’s minimalist 1990s style.
  • Murphy explained those images were from lighting and color tests rather than final costumes as filming commenced ahead of a Valentine’s Day 2026 premiere.
  • He has enlisted a 10-member style advisory board to guide costume decisions with period-accurate references and sourcing.
  • The production has secured original items from Bessette-Kennedy’s wardrobe—including Prada boots, Manolo heels and Birkin bags—to bolster authenticity.
  • JFK Jr.’s nephew Jack Schlossberg condemned the series for proceeding without family consultation and called for profits to be donated to the John F. Kennedy Library.