If you still don’t know how to style barrel-leg jeans, you wouldn’t be alone. The wide-leg style – often also referred to as balloon or horseshoe jeans – flare at the thighs and taper at the ankles. It creates an exaggerated silhouette that is, unsurprisingly, divisive among even the most in-the-know fashionistas. While they aren't as controversial as the skinny jeans comeback, there still seems to be hesitation when it comes to styling them.
IMHO? Denim trends are always worth experimenting with. Recent seasons have seen jeans taken to new extremes. We've seen a wider variety of colour-ways, embroidered denim and the return of the noughties low-waist. Flared jeans are firmly back, and styles in general seem to be getting baggier by the day. The reason we remain invested in every new iteration? They bring a modern update without losing the comfort that denim offers. We’re entering an era when the proportions of our jeans seem to be getting much more avant-garde, hence this guide to how to style barrel-leg jeans while they're in season.
If you’re still skeptical, I have good news for you. They're actually really easy to style. And as with most denim, they're versatile. In fact, you can probably switch out your usual straight-leg jeans for a balloon cut without much thought. Whether you're balancing out the look with a kitten heel, or leaning into the oversized style with a borrowed-from-the-boys blazer, I'm here to prove they're a lot easier to wear than you first thought.
Read on for 7 barrel-leg jeans outfits that you'll want to wear on repeat.
Look 1: With a classic button shirt
A classic button-front shirt works with every outfit, but especially with wide-leg jeans. Add a belt to keep the proportions in check, and a suede jacket (another big trend this autumn/winter) gives the look a quiet luxury feel.
Look 2: With oversized knitwear
The boho-chic trend has become a main character when it comes to autumn/winter style thanks mainly to Chloé. A flowing ’70s top pairs perfectly with a pair of blue-wash barrel jeans. While you could opt for some clogs here, there’s also an opportunity to wear a boho platform shoe to keep with the Stevie-Nicks aesthetic.
Look 4: Go preppy
No one said you can't look put together in denim. There’s nothing quite like combining a structured blouse or jacket with your barrel jeans. Bonus points if it's tweed. We recommend wearing heels or ballet flats with this look. A denim 'fit even Coco Chanel could get on board with.
Look 5: With a crisp white shirt
If your barrel-leg jeans are a light-wash blue, it's easiest to pair them with a white shirt. The example above completes the look with mesh ballet flats, a trend we're not ready to let go of. You could also go for an embellished pair or some kitten heels.
Look 6: With a scarf top
Scarf tops have been everywhere this season, and they're a great way to balance out the wide fit of a balloon jean. Add an extra pop of colour with some bright shoes and lean into the scarf trend even further by matching one to your top as a bag charm.
Look 7: With polka dots
Want to make even more of a statement? Cast your usual blue wash aside and and opt for some distressed denim. This Free People pair feature a fun paint splatter design with a contrast drawstring waist. Your favourite white tee would definitely be enough here, but if you're on the polka dot bandwagon we love a patterned top to offset the denim. It shouldn't work, but it really does.
For more from GLAMOUR UK's freelancer Hattie Cotmore, follow her on Instagram @hattiecotmore.
