Black and White Pinstripe Suit
Artifact IDMO 2009.3.249a-b
Object Type
Suit
Date
1950-1963
Date Worn1/28/60
Maker
unknown
, no label
Medium
Wool, zipper, buttons
DimensionsTrousers: Overall L 42 in (106.7 cm )
Jacket: Overall L center back 33 in (83.8 cm )
Jacket: Overall L center back 33 in (83.8 cm )
Physical DescriptionTwo piece black and white pinstriped twill weave wool suit with jacket and trousers
Single breasted jacket with two buttons and a notched rolled collar. Jacket has left lapel buttonhole, two piece straight sleeves with four buttons at each mock placket opening, left chest welt pocket, two welt and flap front pockets. Jacket has no back vent, full plain weave fabric lining, and an inside right chest pocket
Trousers have a flat front with straight creased legs with cuffed hems, fly front closure with zipper, four pockets, and belt loops. There are no labels inside jacket or trousers.
Single breasted jacket with two buttons and a notched rolled collar. Jacket has left lapel buttonhole, two piece straight sleeves with four buttons at each mock placket opening, left chest welt pocket, two welt and flap front pockets. Jacket has no back vent, full plain weave fabric lining, and an inside right chest pocket
Trousers have a flat front with straight creased legs with cuffed hems, fly front closure with zipper, four pockets, and belt loops. There are no labels inside jacket or trousers.
Historical NoteThis black pinstriped suit, from John F. Kennedy's personal wardrobe, was worn by the future president on January 28, 1960, during a notable photography session with Otto Bettmann.
The photoshoot on January 28, 1960, occurred during a pivotal moment early in John F. Kennedy’s campaign for the presidency. During this period, Kennedy's campaign was carefully choreographed to emphasize his accessibility and confidence.
Choosing a pinstripe suit for this high-stakes photoshoot was a deliberate choice that balanced tradition with a modern, "presidential" edge. This specific suit style was significant for JFK at that moment because it projected authority and maturity. Kennedy faced a major hurdle: his age. At 42, he was frequently criticized for being too young or "boyish" for the Oval Office. Pinstripes have historically been associated with the banking and legal professions—industries built on trust and gravity. The vertical lines of a pinstripe suit create an air of formality and "weight," helping Kennedy look more like a seasoned statesman and less like a junior Senator. Power suits, like this one, became a staple in his wardrobe.
Additional DetailsThe photoshoot on January 28, 1960, occurred during a pivotal moment early in John F. Kennedy’s campaign for the presidency. During this period, Kennedy's campaign was carefully choreographed to emphasize his accessibility and confidence.
Choosing a pinstripe suit for this high-stakes photoshoot was a deliberate choice that balanced tradition with a modern, "presidential" edge. This specific suit style was significant for JFK at that moment because it projected authority and maturity. Kennedy faced a major hurdle: his age. At 42, he was frequently criticized for being too young or "boyish" for the Oval Office. Pinstripes have historically been associated with the banking and legal professions—industries built on trust and gravity. The vertical lines of a pinstripe suit create an air of formality and "weight," helping Kennedy look more like a seasoned statesman and less like a junior Senator. Power suits, like this one, became a staple in his wardrobe.
Custodial 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
