'I Hated Denim Until I Tried Barrel-Leg Jeans – This Is How To Style Them'
Welcome to Reality Check: a new regular franchise from the ELLE fashion editors that asks: how well do the season's biggest trends really work in the wild? This week, we explore the different ways to wear the controversial barrel-leg jean silhouette for the season ahead.
As someone who spent years avoiding denim, finding the right pair of jeans felt like an impossible task. The slim shapes and high rises that dominated for so long didn’t feel authentic to my personal style or body shape, and instead I found myself leaning into looser tailored trousers that gave me a sense of ease and confidence.
But recently, as I’ve become more attuned to my body, focussing on movement and self-care practices, I’ve felt a shift in my perspective – and a new-found desire to experiment. I could have dipped my toe back into the wild world of denim with a classic 501 or universally flattering straight-leg style, but instead, I found myself drawn to something decidedly more exaggerated, even a little controversial... enter, the barrel-leg jean.
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Distinguished by their curved, voluminous leg that tapers back in at the ankle, barrel-leg jeans – also known as 'horseshoe jeans' – entered the fashion scene courtesy of Alaïa's AW23 show, and they've been trending practically ever since. Everyone from Sienna Miller and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley to Katie Holmes is a fan, and now, as a result of researching this article, I can confirm that I am, too.
I spent the last few weeks playing around with styling different barrel-leg designs from the likes of Citizens of Humanity, Frame and M&S, and was surprised to discover how versatile and wearable they are. Perfectly bridging that gap between comfort and style, they offer just the right amount of volume while still maintaining a polished edge, meaning they can easily be dressed up or down. In short, they're an essential addition to any wardrobe – even for the usually denim-averse like me.
To prove it, I've put together four different ways to wear horseshoe jeans for the season ahead – each of which is easily replicated, seriously chic, trend-led, comfortable and flattering to boot. I'm a size 14 and prefer a looser fit, so if you're like me, simply size up to get that perfect low-on-the-hips relaxed look and feel.
How to style barrel-leg jeans
Relaxed off-duty chic
Made from regenerative, non-stretch cotton, these Citizens of Humanity Horseshoe Jeans are the perfect shape for a laid-back, off-duty vibe. They have an effortlessly oversized fit with a curved, tapered leg that hits right at the ankle. To keep things casual but pulled-together, I paired them with a cozy sweatshirt and added some structure to the outfit with a boxy blazer, before finishing off the look with a vintage Fendi bag for instant elevation and adidas Sambas that just meet the hem (socks will be on show so choose an intentional pair).
Get the look:
Horseshoe High-Rise Barrel-Leg Jeans
The Relaxed-Fit Sweatshirt
Samba OG Shoes
Plaid Double-Breasted Wool-Blend Blazer
Double denim with a tonal twist
Denim-on-denim has always been iconic, and it feels particularly of-the-moment with a barrel-leg silhouette. I styled Frame's super-voluminous Bubble High Rise Barrel Jeans with a slim-but-structured denim shirt to create the perfect contrasting proportions. To elevate the look further, I leaned into tonal layering, using accessories in subtle blue tints to bring the whole outfit together – though you could do the opposite with bright pops of colour for a stronger style statement (red would work particularly well here).
These mid-wash jeans have an exaggerated barrel-leg silhouette, with a distinct curve that’s especially noticeable when the hem is cuffed. While most barrel legs hit at the ankle, rolling these jeans down creates a longer silhouette, perfectly complementing the peek of a heeled boot.
Get the look:
The Bubble Jean
The Classic Denim Shirt
£130.00 at withnothingunderneath.com
Leather Valerie Ankle Boot
The Gio Sunglasses
Prim and polished
Who said barrel-leg jeans can't be feminine, too? I paired the M&S Mid Rise Relaxed Horseshoe Jeans with a ladylike silk polka dot pussy-bow blouse for a high-low look that feels playful yet refined. Adding satin ballerinas, sunglasses, delicate jewellery and a belt to cinch the waist, I'd wear this look for a dinner with friends or smart daytime event. Simply swap the flats for heels (I'm especially loving the combination of sheer hosiery and strappy sandals right now) and add a slick of red lipstick, and you're ready for a night out, too.
Get the look:
Mid Rise Relaxed Horseshoe Jeans
Kat Pussy Bow Shirt
Aurora Satin Flats
Outta Love Dunglasses
Autumn casual
Barrel-leg jeans vibe perfectly with cosy cashmere and the season's trending barn jackets, meaning you can tick off multiple trends in one easy look. I opted for Free People's Mid-Rise Barrel Jeans in an autumnal green shade, adding a classic cashmere roll-neck for warmth and to balance out the silhouette. The waxed jacket adds texture as well as a much-needed extra layer, while patent Mary-Janes (or slimline loafers) serve to smarten the whole ensemble. For me, this outfit is already becoming a go-to for the season, and a no-brainer for days when I want to feel relaxed but still look put-together.
Get the look:
Good Luck Mid-Rise Barrel Jeans
Pure Cashmere Roll Neck Jumper
Stella Slipper
Cori Waxed Jacket
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