How to Style Barrel Leg Jeans: 10 Outfit Ideas

If you are learning how to style barrel-leg jeans, begin with pieces you already wear regularly. The denim is doing something new – everything around it can stay reassuringly familiar.

Look 1: Barrel jeans with a classic tee. A simple tee keeps attention on the curved leg and gives you an easy weekend combination. Add sneakers or flat sandals and you are ready for a day that may include errands, lunch and the mysterious disappearance of several hours.

Look 2: Barrel jeans with a linen shirt. Leave it loose for a relaxed feel or tuck the front section lightly to reveal more of the waistline. White, chambray, navy, pastels, brights and soft earthy colours all work beautifully with denim.

Look 3: Barrel jeans with a fine knit. A lightweight knit finishing near the hip creates enough definition to balance the fuller leg. This is an especially useful combination during transitional weather – warm enough, but not thick-of-winter territory.

Look 4: Barrel jeans with a striped top. Stripes and denim are old friends, which makes this an easy way to try a newer jean shape. Keep accessories understated and let the silhouette provide the point of interest.

For a different denim proportion, cropped jeans offer another way to highlight your footwear and lighten the lower half of an outfit that's also perfect for petites.

One of the best things about this trend is that the silhouette is not limited to jeans. Barrel shaped pants made from lighter or softer fabrics can feel especially comfortable while still giving an outfit that interesting, curved line.

Look 8: Barrel shaped pants with a relaxed shirt. A fluid shirt softens the architectural shape of the pants. Keep the colour palette tonal for a calm, modern effect – navy with blue, olive with sage or black with charcoal all work well.

Look 9: Barrel shaped pants with a sleeveless top and light layer. This combination is useful in warmer weather or between seasons. Add an open shirt or lightweight cardigan when you want a little more coverage without hiding the silhouette.

Look 10: Barrel jeans with a simple top and statement shoe. Because many barrel styles narrow towards the ankle, they naturally draw attention to footwear. A polished flat, metallic sandal or sleek sneaker can completely change the mood.

For denim with added ease through the waist, our elastic jeans are another comfortable option worth considering.