Barrel jeans are not necessarily chic. Their shape and significantly outwardly curved legs seem strange and a little intimidating at first glance, especially if you don't often experiment with balloon-like clothing. But this denim style has maintained itself as one of the top trends in recent seasons, and for good reason. Celebrities from Serena Williams to Zoe Saldaña and labels like Alaïa, Agolde and many others have worn them more have released their own versions. As unusual as they may seem, these bottoms can be useful in almost any wardrobe.
Celebrity stylist Manny Jay (whose clients include Monaleo and Jackie Aina) believes their popularity is due to how good they can look on anyone. “They offer versatility while maintaining a chic, modern feel, which is why I think they're here to stay,” he says BEING. “Their unique fit, fitted at the waist, flared at the leg and tapered at the ankle, works with almost any style of shoe, whether you wear heels, sneakers, flats or boots,” adds Jay.
It makes sense why barrel jeans feel so alien. Unlike '70s flares or Y2K-style low-rise jeans, these styles aren't making a nostalgic comeback. Instead, their roots are unclear, although they appear to have their origins in 1920s French workwear. But that hasn't stopped her from becoming popular with many. Finally, these jodhpur-look jeans suit all body types and are a fun way to play with your style, whether boho, streetwear or “corporate”.
Tibi and Free People have a few variations of jeans that take on the barrel trend. Check out the Tibi Sid if you're looking for a relaxed silhouette that's easy to pair with your everyday basics. Free People's Kinsington has a loose fit, the brand's Good Luck Mid-Rise option comes in 17 different styles and sits below the natural waist (it's also available in regular, short and long sizes).
“They manage to make almost anything look effortlessly cool,” adds celebrity stylist and designer of his eponymous label Marc Desir.
Keep scrolling to learn how to style barrel jeans for all shapes, including plus sizes and petite sizes. Also read tips on what you can wear this denim style with, even in winter.
How to style barrel jeans for petite body sizes
Because barrel jeans inherently play with silhouette, it's important to choose the right pieces to complete your outfit and stay away from anything that might overwhelm a smaller figure. For example, Desir says, “If you choose an oversized jacket, skip the oversized T-shirt.” Instead, opt for a fitted shirt or crop top to keep the look clean and well-proportioned.”
It's also important to know your stride length. As with all petite sized jeans, if the jeans are too long, they may appear shorter instead of elongating and creating the illusion of length. The cropped cut of these jeans is particularly helpful for petite body sizes and those with shorter legs.
How to Style Barrel Jeans for Plus Size Figures
The advantage of barrel jeans, especially when compared to straight-leg or baggier and shapeless cuts, is that they can help accentuate an hourglass figure, just as contour can help sculpt and lift cheekbones. Which barrel jeans are best for tall figures depends on where they sit.
“A high-rise style that hits the narrowest part of your waist is ideal for accentuating curves,” says Jay. “Pay attention to the length and decide whether you want them to fall to the ankle or above for a more personalized finish. The right fit can create a beautiful hourglass effect while keeping the look slim.”
How to style barrel jeans for winter
Every outfit looks better with a visual sense of harmony. To achieve this with barrel jeans in winter, Desir recommends “pairing them with a fitted tee and an oversized but slightly cropped jacket for contrast.” They also pair beautifully with tucked-in sweaters to make the jeans make a statement .” Leather jackets and cozy turtlenecks also work well, especially if they have bold colors or a print, he adds.
When wearing winter shoes, avoid collisions between the hems. To achieve this delicate balance, Desir likes to pair his barrel denim with fashion favorites like the Maison Margiela Tabi boots, Doc Martens or classic Chelsea boots. However, he warns: “I would stay away from boots that are too clunky, though. If the trousers already have that noticeable shape, adding too much volume at the bottom can spoil the look.”
If you want to wear the denim style with winter boots, go for something fur-lined and sleek (like the Vigo from Maguire) rather than something boxy that would be more suitable for an après-ski look.
What clothes and accessories look best with barrel jeans?
https://www.instagram.com/p/DCeoFjoxrsz/?igsh=MXJ0dDA4YmZ5YXd2ZA==
Accessories enhance your style and individuality and enhance any outfit you pair them with, whether they're crop tops layered like a dancer or bag charms hanging from your Telfar shopper. This also applies to barrel jeans. Because their shape is also eye-catching, they are ideal for a maximalist approach where more is more.
“Pair it with layered jewelry or a baseball cap—even a sleek high ponytail can elevate the look,” Jay offers. “The possibilities are endless, so don't be afraid to experiment and make the look your own.”
Styling tips will help you figure out what to wear with this trendy denim style, but the most important thing is how you feel. Finally, Jay says, “The key to making something look fashionable is confidence. When you feel good, it shows.”