How to Style Barrel Leg Jeans
Introducing this season’s most covetable jean – the barrel leg. Not sure what to wear with this standout denim shape? Don’t be intimidated by the name – they’re easier to wear than you may think. Read on to discover barrel leg jeans styling tips from our denim experts at Trilogy.
What are Barrel Leg Jeans?
Barrel leg jeans are a denim silhouette mainly characterised by their unique, wide silhouette that tapers in at the ankle, creating a super-cool and contemporary balloon-like silhouette. Initially popularised by Citizens of Humanity with their dramatic horseshoe shape, barrel leg jeans now come in various shapes and sizes. With a host of slimmer options now available, you can go as dramatic or subtle as you like with your look.
How Should Barrel Jeans Fit?
Barrel leg jeans usually come in a high or mid-rise, and they should fit closely at the waist before falling into a baggier fit from the hip all the way to the ankle, where they narrow in. Some versions are more sculptural, giving that dramatic horseshoe shape, whereas others will fit closer to the leg, more reminiscent of the classic mom jean. So, what’s the difference between a barrel leg and a straight leg? Primarily, the curved outline of the barrel silhouette differentiates it from a classic, relaxed straight jean.
What are the Best Brands for Barrel Leg Jeans?
This season, there are some great barrel leg denim options from iconic designer denim brands including AG with their high-rise curved barrel Hattie, FRAME’s brand-new Candle Jean and MOTHER’s cool girl shape the Half Pipe.
How to Wear Barrel Leg Jeans
The great thing about the barrel leg is its versatility – it’s fashion-forward whilst offering a universally flattering fit that looks super-modern and endlessly cool. Read on to discover our best styling tips for the leg shape of the season.
Casual Barrel Leg Jeans Outfit Idea
Perfect for everyday wear, the barrel leg’s relaxed silhouette makes it perfect for casual styling. Try a crisp button-up shirt, styled with a box-fresh trainer for a comfortable but put-together outfit.
Smart Outfits for Barrel Leg Jeans
Whilst the barrel leg is the perfect casual denim staple, it can just as easily be dressed up with the addition of a waistcoat top and a trendy kitten heel. The beauty of the barrel is that it does all the hard work for you with its distinctive silhouette - meaning you can keep your colour palette pared-back and still achieve that refined but eye-catching look.
What to Wear with Barrel Leg Jeans in the Office
Barrel leg jeans can be workplace-friendly too – go for a cleaner dark wash paired with a shirt or blouse and loafers, then finish the look with a sharp tailored jacket or blazer.
Different Styles of Barrel Leg Jeans
Black Barrel Leg Jeans
Especially wearable during the colder months, black barrel leg jeans are a great, subtle way of incorporating this new season silhouette into your denim collection. A faded black-grey is perfect for styling with cool-toned blues – from a classic crew neck jumper to a quality wool coat. Barrel leg jeans in cleaner, darker black washes are ideal for dressing up for a smarter look with heels and a blouse; or wearing to the office with a blazer.
White Barrel Leg Jeans
Your new favourite summer pair: white barrel leg jeans. White, cream and ecru shades are a must-have for your summer denim collection - and the barrel leg is no exception thanks to its loose, airy fit. Style with a bright printed blouse and tan leather accessories for season-long wear.
Blue Barrel Leg Jeans
A blue jean is a true classic, whatever the leg shape. Making it super-easy to experiment with the trend, barrel leg jeans come in a spectrum of blues this season – from timeless light washes to smart dark washes.
Pair your blue barrel leg jeans with a soft sweatshirt and easy trainer for the perfect laid-back casual look. For a more luxe take, try layering a lightweight neutral knit with a beige or cream jacket and scarf, using tonal shades to add depth to the look.
High-rise Barrel Leg Jeans
Whilst still great for everyday wear, dress up a pair of high-waisted barrel jeans with a tucked in silk blouse or satin cami.
Mid-rise Barrel Leg Jeans
Mid-rise barrel leg jeans give a slightly more relaxed, low-slung look. Best for that off-duty look, wear with relaxed knitwear, tees or shirting.
Cropped Barrel Leg Jeans
Consider a cropped barrel leg jean your new favourite for the warmer months. Style with a short-sleeved, flowy blouse and your favourite sandals for an effortless warm-weather outfit.
What Shoes to Wear with Barrel Leg Jeans
There are plenty of footwear options when it comes to barrel leg jeans, thanks to their adaptable ankle-length cut.
How to Wear Barrel Leg Jeans with Trainers
The easiest shoe for everyday styling, pair your barrel leg jeans with sneakers for weekend wear all year round.
How to Wear Barrel Leg Jeans with Boots
When the weather cools, you may prefer to opt for a boot – consider a lug sole ankle boot that slips effortlessly under the inseam of your barrel leg jeans.
How to Wear Barrel Leg Jeans with Heels
After a more polished look? Take your barrel leg jeans out after dark with a pointed-toe heel to add a luxe touch to a relaxed, contemporary denim shape.
What Tops to Wear with Barrel Leg Jeans
Thanks to their relaxed look and feel, barrel leg jeans pair well with anything from your favourite tee to easy knits and silky blouses. Consider barrel leg jeans a cool, modern update on the relaxed denim you know and love – a tucked in blouse and heels will give a cool and classy evening look, whilst a lightweight cashmere knit, puffer coat and trainers make the perfect look for everyday errands.
Designer Barrel Leg Jeans Brands
Barrel Leg Jeans FAQs
Who Should Wear Barrel Leg Jeans?
Anyone who wants to experiment with an easy, modern denim trend that’ll be sticking around for a while!
Where Should Barrel Leg Jeans Hit?
Most barrel leg jeans should hit around the ankle, though some styles such as AG’s Hattie Crop come up a bit shorter for a cropped fit. These styles are especially great for the summer months.
What Body Types Look Best in Barrel Leg Jeans?
Thanks to its versatility, the barrel leg is the perfect denim shape for any body type. With the contrast of a fitted waist that falls into a wider leg before tapering in again, the barrel leg creates a naturally curved silhouette. This not only gives a super-cool and stylish look, but a comfortable and flattering one too.
Can Barrel Leg Jeans be Worn in a Professional Setting?
Absolutely! Though this will of course depend on your workplace’s individual dress code, there’s no reason a barrel leg jean can’t be smartened up for office wear. Try pairing with a tailored jacket, shirt and loafers.
How to Care for and Maintain Barrel Leg Jeans?
Like all denim, you shouldn’t over-wash your barrel leg jeans in order keep them in tip-top condition. When you do wash them, turn them inside out and stick to a cool, gentle cycle before air drying on a flat surface to avoid any stretching or damage to the fibres. To add lasting-power to your denim – read our full denim care guide.
What Top Goes with Barrel Leg Jeans?
Pair a high-rise barrel leg jean with a tucked-in shirt for a classic finish, or a loose, flowy blouse for a more bohemian take on the trend. Alternatively, a waistcoat or silk shirt is perfect for dressing up your barrel leg jeans for the perfect high-low look. A cosy cashmere jumper or cardigan also makes a great pairing.
How Do Barrel Leg Jeans Compare To Straight-leg Jeans?
Straight leg jeans tend to offer a leaner, stovepipe silhouette, whereas the barrel’s tapered ankle gives the leg a unique, curved silhouette.
What Shoes Go With Barrel Leg Jeans?
Loved for their adaptability, barrel leg jeans will pair perfectly with anything from your favourite ballet flats to everyday trainers or heeled boots.
Are Barrel Leg Jeans Suitable For All Seasons?
Yes – you can style barrel leg jeans all year round. Through the warmer months, opt for sneakers with barrel leg jeans and a simple tee or crisp shirt. Through the transitional months, add light layers such as a knitted vest and bomber jacket or oversized blazer. Pair barrel leg jeans with a timeless wool coat, cashmere accessories and a chunky boot for crisp, wintery days.
Shop our full collection of barrel leg jeans, or head to our denim style guide for more styling advice.
