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.
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Read on for 7 barrel-leg jeans outfits that you’ll want to wear on repeat.
Look 1: With a classic button shirt
Christian Vierig
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.
Aligne Henry Slim Barrel Jeans
Look 2: With oversized knitwear
Edward Berthelot
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