Grey Pinstripe Suit
Artifact IDMO 2009.3.251a-b
Object Type
Suit
Date
February 7, 1961
Maker
H. Harris
(American, Custom Tailor, London, New York)
Place MadeNew York, New York, United States
Medium
wool, metal
DimensionsOverall L center back 31 1/2 in (80 cm ); trouser L 42 in.
Physical DescriptionTwo piece grey and white pinstriped suit - Jacket and Trousers of plain weave wool. Single breasted coat has a notched rolled collar, left lapel buttonhole, two piece straight sleeves with three buttons at each sleeve placket, left chest welt pocket, two welt and flap front pockets. Jacket has no back vent. Front and partial back satin weave lining, inside right chest pocket, center back hanging loop.
Trousers have five pockets, flat front, straight creased legs with cuffed hems. Fly front closure with zipper and waistband hook fastener, belt loops.
Label with lion and unicorn crest, "H. Harris, 43 E. 59th St. New York" "Pres. J.F. Kennedy, 2/7/61".
Trousers have five pockets, flat front, straight creased legs with cuffed hems. Fly front closure with zipper and waistband hook fastener, belt loops.
Label with lion and unicorn crest, "H. Harris, 43 E. 59th St. New York" "Pres. J.F. Kennedy, 2/7/61".
Historical NoteThis suit was worn by President Kennedy, as part of his personal wardrobe. H. Harris custom pieces were essential to his "New Frontier" image—youthful, athletic, and modern. The suit features the refined, structured lines characteristic of high-end mid-century American tailoring. Kennedy preferred "subtle" pinstripes or vague checks that only became apparent up close, maintaining a professional "Oval Office" appearance from a distance. This grey pinstriped suit was a staple for professional and formal attire of the eraThe interior pocket contains a custom tailor's label from H. Harris (New York), dated 1961. This marks it as a piece commissioned specifically for his presidency.
Additional DetailsCustodial History NoteThis suit was previously owned by President John F. Kennedy. After his death, it was bequeath to Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. It was held in courtesy storage at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and donated to the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation in 1995 by Estate of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. Ownership was transferred to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library Museum collection by the Foundation in 2009.
Credit LineJohn F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA; Gift of the Estate of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis and the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation
National Archives Catalog CollectionJohn F. Kennedy Library Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 1676934)
National Archives Catalog SeriesJohn F. Kennedy Personal Collection (National Archives Identifier 1676959)
Use Restriction StatusRestricted - PartlyUse Restriction Notepermission to use image must be granted by the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum. please address requests to Museumjfk@nara.govUse Restriction Noteimage use is to be approved of by Museum staff on a case by case basis, image is not for sale by Getty, Almay, or other profit seeking photography sites.In Collection(s)
Not on view
