Despite being in the throes of summer, as an autumn person at heart, I'm already making note of the outfits that will be taking off next season. This week, courtesy of one of the chicest women over 50, I spotted a French-inspired jeans-and-shoe pairing I'm convinced stylish dressers will be relying on in just a few weeks' time.

Starting with a French-girl-approved foundation, Julia Roberts slipped into a pair of relaxed, high-waisted jeans, finishing her outfit with the closed-toe shoe trend set to dominate once sandal season comes to an end: elegant white ballet flats.

A Timeless French Girl Formula

A styling combination lifted straight from the French fashion playbook, and one I'm certain we'll be seeing all over the streets of Paris as summer gives way to autumn, the fresh neutral shade always looks considered, brightening and refining even ultra-casual outfits.

Whilst Julia wore her jeans and white ballet flats with a ruffled blouse, this combination works just as well with simple T-shirts, offering a fresher alternative to the classic jeans-and-black-flats pairing that makes your styling feel that much more considered.

The Essential Pieces to Shop Now

To recreate this effortlessly chic look, fashion insiders recommend investing in a pair of relaxed, high-waisted denim and a classic pair of white leather ballet flats. Brands like Reformation, Le Monde Beryl, and Sézane are currently offering standout options that perfectly capture this timeless aesthetic.

As the fashion world anticipates the seasonal shift, Julia Roberts' recent street style appearance serves as a harbinger of the relaxed, refined elegance that will define autumn wardrobes. It is a testament to the enduring power of classic, well-executed basics.