The first time I saw barrel leg jeans, I hated them. I thought they looked like something a gunslinging cowboy would wear in an old Western film.

But, after seeing so many women rocking these jeans in their street style, I realised that barrel leg jeans are actually fly.

Barrel leg jeans, also known as horseshoe or ballon jeans, are heating up the runways.

Everyone – from Jennifer Lopez to Hailey Bieber – is wearing them.

However, what I love about them is that they’re versatile. So, you can dress them up or down. They’re also super comfy. Bonus.

The trick is knowing how to wear them. The wrong pairing can easily make you look bulky or frumpy.

Here are five different ways you can rock the barrel leg jeans trend and look amazing no matter the occasion.

1. Date Night Chic With A Bustier And Heels

When it comes to date night, you can’t go wrong with a bustier and barrel leg jeans. I bought two pairs of Old Navy barrel leg jeans, which I paired with a bustier top from White House, Black Market. You can see the bustier top in this post.

A fitted top paired with loose jeans gives me a more balanced, sexy silhouette.

Style Tip: Wear some strappy or sleek heels to elongate your legs. You can also pair this look with ankle boots.

2. Daytime Sophistication With A Blazer Or Lady Jacket

One of my favourite things to do is to pair my barrel leg jeans with a double breasted blazer from Zara or a dark lady jacket from J. Crew Factory.

I remember when I thought lady jackets were for old ladies. Now, I realise how sophisticated they are and how much they elevate a look.

I would rock this look to run errands or go to meetings or appointments.

Even though the lady jacket has a boxy structure, it really gives an elegant vibe to the pants, pulling the look together quite nicely.

Style Tip: Look for lady jackets that are really structured or have fun buttons that will make the look more interesting.

3. Go Casual Cool With A T-Shirt And Sneakers

If you’re looking for something a lot more toned down – basically everyday wear, you can pair your barrel leg jeans with a lightweight T-shirt or denim top and sneakers.

I got my sporty barrel leg jeans from Target.

A graphic tee adds some personality to the look.

However, I would keep a light cardigan or denim jacket on hand for those cooler days. Here in Washington, DC, the temperature swings back and forth from hot to cold in a matter of hours. So, if you live in a city like mine, carry some extra covering.

Style Tip: Look for high-waisted barrel leg jeans if you’re on the petite side. A higher waist gives you length, defines your waist and instantly gives you an effortlessly chic vibe. I’m 5’4″, so I need any length that I can get.

4. Rock Barrel Leg Jeans With A Blouse Or Button Down

If you’re looking for a more polished, feminine look, pair your jeans with a flowy blouse or a button-down shirt tucked-in or tied at the waist.

However, when it comes to the button-downs, opt for fabrics with a little bit of movement to counter the stiff denim.

Style Tip: Add a belt to accentuate your waist.

5. Denim-On-Denim For The Win

Somewhere I can hear Beyonce singing, “denim on denim on denim.”

But, Queen Bey is right. A denim top paired with denim barrel leg jeans always look stylish and put together.

Denim-on-denim is also known as a Canadian tuxedo and looks best when you choose pieces that have a similar wash.

The look is casual, but can be dressed up depending on your footwear and accessories.

Style Tip: Layer to add dimension if you don’t want to look too matchy-matchy. Also dig into your accessories box and pull out scarves, fedoras and other jewelry to pull the entire look together.

Are Barrel Leg Jeans Still In Style?

For those of you wondering whether barrel leg jeans are still in style, the answer is a resounding yes.

Although these jeans were a huge trend in 2024, that momentum has carried over into 2025.

Expect to see these jeans everywhere this summer.

Who Can Wear These Types Of Jeans?

While barrel leg jeans look best on individuals with a pear or hourglass shape, I find that they are flattering to almost everyone. I have narrow hips and am on the shorter side. But, the pants are structured in a way that give me curves.

That’s because they create the illusion of an hourglass figure.

My advice? Just try them on. Don’t let these jeans intimidate you.

I don’t like the super exaggerated jeans, so I typically avoid those. But, if you’re a fashion risk taker, go for it.

So, What’s The Verdict On Barrel Leg Jeans?

Well, I’m all about this trend. These jeans offer such terrific versatility and are very different from what I’m used to wearing, so I give them two thumbs up.

At the moment, I own three of these jeans. But, I fully plan on adding more colours to my closet.

What’s your favourite way to wear barrel leg jeans? Let me know in the comments section.

*Disclosure: This post contains some affiliate links. This means that if you click on one of the links and make a purchase, I will receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. All of my thoughts are my own and I would never recommend a product or gift that I do not stand by 100%.*

Posted By: Rogan · In: Style