Julia Roberts’ love affair with the pantsuit is more than just a series of successful red carpet appearances. It’s a philosophy, a declaration of independence, and a masterclass in turning a piece of menswear into a symbol of feminine strength and elegance. It all began on the cusp of the nineties, when her back-to-back appearances at the Golden Globe Awards made a sensation and forever changed the rules of the game in Hollywood.
In 1990, as she accepted her award for ‘Steel Magnolias,’ America’s sweetheart walked on stage in an oversized men’s suit by Giorgio Armani. The look, a nod to Diane Keaton’s outfit at the 1978 Oscars, challenged the conservative norms of red carpets dominated by ball gowns and glamour. The press was baffled, but designers were thrilled. Roberts proved that confidence is the best accessory, and sharp tailoring can be far more alluring than a plunging neckline. The following year, she doubled down at the same event in a pinstriped skirt suit, a clear reference to the ‘power suit’ aesthetic that defined the business style of the era. Two different approaches, one idea: a suit isn’t a uniform, but a canvas for self-expression.
Since then, the actress has consistently demonstrated the versatility of this garment. In her interpretation, a suit is no longer a dull office staple. It can be bold, romantic, strict, or laid-back—it all depends on the details. Her recent looks are a living guide to the art of tailoring. For example, a classic tuxedo in her version loses any gender connotation. By adding a dazzling white shirt and sparkling jewels, she strikes the perfect balance between masculine austerity and feminine delicacy.
Roberts is not afraid to experiment. One of her favorite tricks is wearing a blazer with nothing underneath. This instantly transforms the formal outfit into an evening look, while the V-shaped neckline becomes the perfect frame for a delicate necklace. Another way to give a twist to the classic is to play with proportions and shapes. Swapping traditional trousers for Bermuda shorts removes excess seriousness from the look, making it fresh and on-trend. And wide palazzo pants, which create the illusion of a skirt when walking, update the silhouette without changing the essence of the suit.
Although the actress often prefers a neutral palette, she skillfully works with color as well. Appearing in a delicate cream-yellow suit, she transforms a strict cut into something softer and more informal. To further soften the sharp lines, she often completes her looks with romantic blouses featuring ruffles or bow ties at the neck. This play of textures and styles is another secret to her impeccable taste. Julia Roberts taught the world that a suit is not armor, but a second skin that can reveal much more about its wearer than even the most revealing dress.
