Blue Suit
Artifact IDMO 2009.3.209a-b
Object Type
Suit
Date
1960-1962
Maker
H. Harris
(American, Custom Tailor, London, New York)
Place MadeNew York, New York, United States
Medium
wool, cotton, synthetic metal
DimensionsJacket: Overall center back L 32 1/2 in (82.6 cm )
Trousers L 45 in.
Trousers L 45 in.
Physical DescriptionTwo piece plain weave wool blue suit: with jacket and trousers
Single breasted jacket with notched rolled collar, two button closure with two flap pockets at the waist and one welt pocket at the proper left chest. No back vent.
Trousers have straight legs with cuffs, sharp creases in legs with five pockets, a front fly closure with metal zipper and hook fastener.
Single breasted jacket with notched rolled collar, two button closure with two flap pockets at the waist and one welt pocket at the proper left chest. No back vent.
Trousers have straight legs with cuffs, sharp creases in legs with five pockets, a front fly closure with metal zipper and hook fastener.
Historical NoteThis classic navy blue wool suit was a cornerstone of President John F. Kennedy’s wardrobe during his time in the White House. It was expertly crafted by H. Harris of New York, a bespoke tailor Kennedy favored not only during his Senate years but continued to rely on throughout his presidency.
While Kennedy was often associated with pinstripes, this solid navy ensemble represents the definitive "presidential" look he established—defined by a natural, unpadded shoulder and a slim, two-button jacket. The deep, uniform color and fine wool weave provided an authoritative yet understated presence for Oval Office business and televised addresses, reflecting the timeless "New Frontier" style that became a global symbol of American leadership.
Additional DetailsWhile Kennedy was often associated with pinstripes, this solid navy ensemble represents the definitive "presidential" look he established—defined by a natural, unpadded shoulder and a slim, two-button jacket. The deep, uniform color and fine wool weave provided an authoritative yet understated presence for Oval Office business and televised addresses, reflecting the timeless "New Frontier" style that became a global symbol of American leadership.
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
