Julia Roberts Has Embraced These 9 Fashion Trends Since the ’90s—Expect to See Them Everywhere This Autumn
You can't discuss Julia Roberts' fashion trends and her most memorable outfits without recognizing the consistent theme underlying them all: her unmistakable sense of self. She exemplifies how a strong identity can lead to a distinctive personal style. Julia serves as a style icon not only for those over 50 but also as a guiding figure for individuals of all ages. It's easy to recall a number of her outfits that have been considered groundbreaking. For instance, there's the bold choice to showcase her armpit hair in a sequined Vivienne Tam dress at the 1999 premiere of *Notting Hill*, as well as her barefoot stroll at the 2016 Cannes Film Festival in defiance of the strict heel requirement for women.
Given the numerous outfits she has worn, we will take a broader look at the pieces she's frequently donned, starting from her debut in the 1980s to her recent red carpet appearances and casual street style in 2026. Known for her suiting and tailored looks, she also shines in sleek gowns. Beyond star-studded occasions, she serves as a source of inspiration for everyday fashion, whether in classic blue jeans or quirky patterned cardigans. There is much to draw from.
From a personal perspective, Julia represents one celebrity who has affirmed my desire to dress for myself rather than follow trends. I've always been attracted to outfits often deemed "masculine," such as suits, trousers, or loose T-shirts. Julia not only dismisses the traditional narratives about women's fashion but entirely ignores them. When she wore an iconic Giorgio Armani suit from the men’s department to the Golden Globes in 1990, she remarked to British Vogue, "I could not have known that it was going to become this, like, statement outfit. I just thought I looked fabulous, and I still have that suit." For her, dressing isn't about rebelling against societal norms (even if it happens unintentionally); it’s about confidently being herself in the outfits that resonate with her. That is a lesson anyone, regardless of their style, can embrace.
Similar discussions arose when she waved at the *Notting Hill* premiere, revealing her armpit hair. It wasn’t an intentional moment for future discussion. She explained to Busy Phillips on her talk show, "It wasn’t so much a statement as it’s just part of the statement I make as a human on the planet for myself.” Yet, as a female navigating the public sphere, she inevitably draws attention, criticism, and "scandal." This doesn’t bother Roberts, who continues to embody a strong personal style, with or without the help of a stylist. She blends classic little black dresses with heels as easily as she does casual Birkenstocks and Bermuda shorts. This dynamic mix is both fantastic and inspiring, and while she doesn’t conform to labels or definitions of her style, I’ve noticed a recurring theme in the pieces she favors over the past 38 years. Whether you admire her acting, her fashion sense, or just the artistry of a personal wardrobe, this list is for you. Keep scrolling to discover nine of Julia Roberts' most iconic fashion trends, ranging from her 1990s style to her current looks.
**9 Julia Roberts-Approved Fashion Trends to Copy in 2026**
1. **Tailoring**
Style Notes: It’s only fitting to begin with Julia Roberts' love for suits and tailoring. Not only has she consistently opted for these styles, but she also has a natural talent for styling them. This trend began with her memorable appearance at the 47th Golden Globe Awards in 1990, where the 22-year-old simply selected a relaxed grey Giorgio Armani suit from the men's section. The influence it has had on red carpet fashion remains strong. Her *After the Hunt* co-star Ayo Edebiri replicated the look for the 2025 Golden Globes in a similar grey suit featuring a skinny gold tie, a nod to the statuette Julia won for Best Supporting Actress in 1990. Julia's fondness for suits has only grown, with her sporting various tailored looks throughout the decades and revisiting her original iconic suit multiple times.
**Shop the Trend:**
- **ZARA:** 100% Wool Relaxed Fit Suit Blazer – A stylish high-street suit jacket made from 100% wool, perfect for the upcoming season.
- **Reformation:** Frances Low Rise Relaxed Pant – Office-friendly yet chic enough to pair with various tops.
2. **Leather Jackets**
Style Notes: When Julia Roberts isn't sporting a suit, she can often be seen in a leather jacket—not only on the *Notting Hill* or *Law & Order* sets. While black is a classic choice, she has also donned jackets in brown, olive green, and red. Much like a wool or cotton blazer, leather jackets add an impressive layer to jeans or leggings and serve as a great transitional piece for summer to autumn, easily pairing with both
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Julia Roberts Has Embraced These 9 Fashion Trends Since the ’90s—Expect to See Them Everywhere This Autumn
They will be present everywhere this autumn.
