Jackie Kennedy’s Pink Chanel Suit – A Mystery Unsolved
The assassination of President John F. Kennedy in Dallas, Texas on November 22, 1963, is a moment that is etched in the memories of many Americans. The bloodstained pink Chanel suit worn by his wife Jacqueline Kennedy that day has become an iconic symbol of that tragic event.
But what happened to the suit after that fateful day? The answer to this question has remained a mystery for decades.
The Pink Chanel Suit – A Symbol of Tragedy
The pink suit was a classic Chanel design made of wool boucle fabric. It featured a fitted jacket with a collarless neckline and four patch pockets with gold-tone buttons.
The matching skirt had a straight Silhouette and was knee-length. Jackie Kennedy paired the suit with a pillbox hat in the same shade of pink.
The first lady wore this outfit on her trip to Texas with her husband, where they were greeted by enthusiastic crowds as they traveled through Dallas in an open car. Tragically, shots were fired from the sixth floor of the Texas School Book Depository building, killing President Kennedy and injuring Governor John Connally. Jackie was seated beside her husband when he was shot and his blood spattered on her pink suit.
The Fate of the Pink Suit
After the assassination, Jackie refused to change out of her blood-stained clothes as she boarded Air Force One with Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson and other officials for the flight back to Washington D.C. She later explained that she wanted people to see what had been done to her husband.
Once they arrived at Andrews Air Force Base, Jackie changed into a black dress before accompanying President Kennedy’s body back to the White House. The pink suit was taken from her and never seen again.
Theories About What Happened
There have been many theories over the years about what happened to Jackie’s pink suit. Some people believe that it was destroyed because it was a painful reminder of the tragic event. Others suggest that it was secretly stored away in the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) or the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum.
In 2003, a former New York Times reporter named Frank Johnston claimed that he had discovered the pink suit in a locked vault at NARA. However, this claim has been disputed by officials at NARA who state that they have no record of ever having possession of the suit.
The Legacy of the Pink Suit
Despite its disappearance, Jackie’s pink Chanel suit has become an iconic symbol of her strength and courage during one of America’s darkest moments. The outfit is still talked about today as a fashion statement and tribute to Jackie’s impeccable style.
In 2003, Chanel released a limited edition replica of the suit as part of their Fall/Winter collection, with proceeds going to benefit cancer research. The pink suit also inspired countless designers over the years, with many paying homage to its timeless design.
Conclusion
The mystery surrounding Jackie Kennedy’s pink Chanel suit continues to captivate people decades after her husband’s assassination. Although its whereabouts remain unknown, its significance as a symbol of tragedy and resilience will never be forgotten.