This November 22nd marks the somber sixtieth anniversary of the tragic assassination of President John F. Kennedy in Dallas.
The shocking images of that day are etched in history, and among the enduring symbols is the famous pink suit worn by the first lady, Jackie Kennedy.
Reports from journalists at the time reveal that Jackie did not change out of her pink outfit until the day after the assassination when she arrived at the White House. The suit, initially thought to be from Chanel but, in fact, a creation by the New York brand Chez Ninon, was stained with blood.
The tweed suit had been a favorite of Jackie's and had been worn on several occasions before that fateful day. However, following the tragic events in Dallas, she decided never to wear it again, retiring both the tweed ensemble and the accompanying shirt, bag, pillbox hat, and stockings.
This historical costume holds significant emotional value and is preserved at the request of Caroline Kennedy, the couple's daughter. In 2003, Caroline decided to donate the outfit to the United States National Archives under one condition – that it not be displayed publicly.
Various media reports suggest that the pink suit, adorned with black details on the collar, sleeves, and pockets, remains in its original state, bloodstains intact. The storage conditions are meticulously maintained, with the air changed up to six times an hour and the temperature precisely controlled to preserve the jacket and skirt.
In the document signed by Caroline Kennedy, she expressed her wish that her mother's outfit not be exhibited to avoid "dishonoring the memory" of her parents and causing "grief or suffering to members of her family." It was agreed that the suit would remain out of public view until 2103, a distant future date. The decision reflects the deep respect and sensitivity towards the Kennedy family's wishes in preserving the historical significance of Jackie Kennedy's pink suit.
