There’s no shortage of denim trends to try this fall: high-rise, baggy, low-slung, straight-leg, wide-leg, cut-off, bootcut, and one of our favorites, barrel leg. While most types of jeans are easy to style, barrel jeans require a bit more thought due to their dramatic shape. The payoff is worth it though; when modishly executed, these jeans can enhance any outfit—be it for travel, a fancy dinner, or even a day at the office.
A few key components to consider when styling barrel jeans: first, footwear. Look for sleek, low-profile, and dainty shoes; ballet flats, slim sneakers, and minimalist mules are all stellar options. That being said, chunky shoes aren’t out of the question; we would just recommend pairing with a form-fitting or cropped tee to prevent an overly boxy look.
To get your inspiration flowing, we’ve pulled together a few different ways to wear barrel jeans. Below, find five fall-forward outfits that are ultra-easy to recreate.
Business casual
If your office dress code permits jeans, then a barrel-leg silhouette is fair game. Simply dress up the denim with a ruffled blouse and subtly heeled boots. You also may want to opt for a darker wash over a lighter one, which lends itself to a more elegant look.
Everyday errands
On the flip side of office-poised sophistication comes a relaxed, day-to-day look. The recipe for laidback ease: frayed denim, a classic boxy tee, and a pair of comfortable yet elevated sneakers. Throw on a liner jacket or chore coat—two fall favorites—and you’re good to go.
A night on the town
Headed to a dinner with friends? Try a bustier that cinches at the waist to draw attention to the barrel’s flare. Finish the fit off with a faux leather jacket, and if you want to really lean into autumn’s trendy burgundy hue, this shoulder bag from Amazon ties it all together.
Denim on denim
Double denim is a widely adopted way of styling barrel-leg jeans, likely due to its successful simplicity. Find a similar wash in a jacket and jeans, and for an extra little oomph, consider Western accessorizing with a bolo-inspired belt.
For travel
Whether you’re heading to the airport or commuting to the city, comfort is key and the bagginess of a barrel jean embodies that. To keep the look from swallowing you, a cropped jacket and delicate ballet flats balance it out.
