Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis: A Legacy of Style and Literary Acumen
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, the former First Lady of the United States and renowned editor, remains an influential figure in American culture. Serving as the First Lady from 1961 to 1963 alongside her husband, President John F. Kennedy, Jacqueline emerged not only as a symbol of elegance but also as a multifaceted contributor to the literary world.
Iconic Style and Cultural Impact
Jacqueline’s sophisticated and effortless style is encapsulated in her preference for tailored suits, pillbox hats, and oversized sunglasses. Her fashion choices transcended mere aesthetics, becoming benchmarks for style and grace, which continue to inspire fashion enthusiasts to this day. Her ability to embody sophistication while making it appear effortless is a testament to her status as a cultural icon.
The Connection with Saint Dupont
One of the notable highlights of Jacqueline’s legacy is her affiliation with the luxury brand Saint Dupont. The connection dates back to her early days as First Lady when she received a specially crafted Black Lacquer Saint Dupont Line 1 pen, embellished with the initial “J” in yellow gold from French Minister of Culture André Malraux. As an avid Francophile, Jacqueline admired the lightness and elegance of the pen, which prompted her to commission a matching piece from the same brand almost a decade later. This partnership solidified the pen’s status as a symbol of luxury during her era.
Modern Farewell to a Classic
In 2025, Saint Dupont honors Jacqueline’s legacy with a revamped version of the original ballpoint pen, which was first introduced decades ago. The updated design features a more ergonomic shape and a solid brass construction, providing a balance of weight and comfort that appeals to both men and women. The pen is available in five distinctive variations, showcasing Saint Dupont’s signature lacquer and intricate guilloche patterns.
The Legacy of a Prolific Writer
Beyond her fashion icon status, Jackie was a dedicated letter writer and her correspondence reflects her unique voice and perspective. Her letters, often addressed to notable figures such as John Steinbeck, are now sought after by collectors and historians alike. A recent auction featured memorabilia, including signed letters, underscoring the enduring fascination with her life and relationships. As highlighted by Newsweek, these personal tokens offer insight into her connections and the impact she had on others.
A Career in Literature and Publishing
Jackie’s literary contributions did not end with correspondence. She authored and co-authored several works throughout her life, significantly impacting the publishing landscape. After the passing of her second husband, Aristotle Onassis, she took on the role of an editor at Viking Press and later at Doubleday, nurturing emerging authors and helping to publish nearly 100 works during her tenure.
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis’ enduring appeal lies not only in her pioneering style but also in her contributions as a writer and editor. She remains a timeless figure, whose legacy continues to resonate through both the worlds of fashion and literature.