How to style your barrel leg jeans
It’s safe to say, barrel leg jeans are certainly having a moment, and this is another SS25 trend that I am fully embracing. But first, let’s clarify what this leg shape is that I am loving; the barrel is relaxed with a wide silhouette that tapers in at the ankle, creating a super-cool & contemporary balloon-like leg shape. These jeans are all about comfort without sacrificing on style, plus they seem to work for any body type (a blog coming on that later this week), and they’re flattering in a way that just works. So, let’s get styling!
Source: Pintrest
My top 10 ways to style up your barrel leg jeans
1. The classic casual look: barrel jeans & the suede ankle boots
One of the most effortless ways to look chic & put together, is to balance the relaxed shape of the barrel jean with a suede ankle boot. I’d personally avoid a heavier chunky boot as I feel this looks too heavy against the volume of the denim.
My suggestion would be either a light-washed raw hemmed barrel jean with a tan boot, or a dark wash jean with a chocolate pair. You could, of course, easily go for black pointed toe too. I would team this with a simple white tee, or fine gauge knit to keep things simple, but ‘put together’. This combination is proof that the barrel jean & boots combo works for casual coffee dates, but is polished enough for a casual office day. By having the boots peeking out from your laid-back denim, it is just enough to add a sophisticated touch and, of course, I would throw over a blazer
2. Adding your accessories: a statement belt to cinch in your waist or layering necklaces for a feminine touch
The addition of a statement belt will add to some definition to your silhouette, emphasise your natural waistline and add your own style personality to the overall look. Why not think about metallic buckles or colourful leathers to add an interesting focal point to your outfit?
I’m currently wearing mine with my gold eyelet belt from John Lewis, a simple grey marl tee from Ivy, and adding my cropped caramel suede jacket. Popping on a colourful vintage scarf to accessorise & add a 70’s vibe.
If you want to add a feminine touch to your barrel leg jeans, why not layer-up your necklaces over a simple tee. Layering necklaces will not only add a delicate feminine touch to balance the relaxed fit of barrel jeans, they will also add individuality to your look; do you want a boho vibe using different lengths & colours, a clean minimal look with gold chains, or a more ladylike feel adding pearls maybe?
3. Adding a metallic heel
There’s something about adding a metallic boot (or heel) to add some glamour to your denim. If you are heading out you could add a silk cami / tee / blouse, but tuck it in! Pop over either a tuxedo blazer, or full length coat to add a further touch of glam.
I would then accessorise with statement earrings and a clutch to elevate the outfit even further, maybe for an evening dinner. If you love a bold lip you could add this just to finish the look off perfectly.
Source: Pintrest
4. Pop on your favourite trainers
Your footwear can make or break your barrel jeans outfit, and as a Personal Stylist I get asked this question all the time at the moment.
Trainers are still such a dominant footwear choice for all of my clients (heels are definitely not in favour it seems anymore). So, whether you’re into classic white pair or prefer the colourful trainers, they’ll look great with barrel jeans. The casual vibe of sneakers pairs perfectly with the relaxed fit of the jeans, I’d just suggest rolling up the hem of your jeans slightly to show off your footwear choice, and re-iterate the casual vibe you are rocking!
5. Add a good quality boxy tee
If you are looking for a laid-back, effortless vibe, I’d suggest pairing your barrel jeans with a boxy t-shirt, my current favourite is a grey marl from Ivy. The relaxed fit of a boxy tee will balance out the high waist of the barrel jean. This combination is perfect for running errands or grabbing coffee with friends, just remember to add a small tuck (front or side) if you want to elevate your casual look, or make your outfit look more put together, without sacrificing on your comfort.
If you’re worried about proportions, stick to cropped or tucked-in tops. Leaving your top untucked can make the outfit look bulky & take away from the flattering shape of the jeans. But if it works for you, it’s a great look!
6. Add a Spring layer with a pretty cardigan
Across the UK, Spring weather can be unpredictable to say the least—one minute it’s sunny, the next it’s chilly, or those frosty mornings that result in 15 degree beautiful afternoons in the sunshine. This is where a cardigan comes in handy. This season I would opt for a pastel or neutral-toned card over a fitted tank, tee or body. I would definitely leave the cardigan open for a relaxed vibe, and pair with some ballet flats or colourful trainers. The result? A stylish, comfortable outfit that will also keep you warm.
Source: Pintrest
7. Add some structure with a blazer (of course I wanted this as No.1 but trying not to be too predictable, you know my love for blazers is solid)
To smarten up your barrel jeans, a structured blazer is your secret weapon. By choosing a more tailored garment, you are polishing up the relaxed vibe of the jeans, balancing the casual & sophisticated parts of your final look.
As Spring gets closer, you could easily add a neutral blazer to your jeans; beige, camel, ecru, or even head down the pastel route with powder pink, pistachio or butter yellow (very 2025 ladies). Or if you wanted something a bit more fun, what about a checked, herringbone or plaid blazer?
As per my previous blog, brown suede jackets are a major trend for Spring ’25 & this style compliments a barrel leg jean with such ease. Once again I’d suggest keeping what you wear underneath simple; a fitted jersey or knitted tank, or semi-fitted tee (that sits comfortably underneath your blazer’s sleeves).
8. The classic button-down shirt
There is something about a crisp button-down shirt that pairs beautifully with a pair of barrel jeans. Whether you decide to go for a classic white, soft stripes, or even a bold colour, this combo is effortlessly chic and works for so many occasions.
If you want a more polished look, I’d suggest tucking the shirt into your jeans and rolling up the sleeves to your elbow. Doing this creates a relaxed, yet put-together vibe. You could then easily add loafers, suede boots or a ballet flat to complete the look.
9. Adding a Spring trench
For those cooler and possibly wetter, spring days, the trench coat is a perfect pairing with your barrel leg jeans. Whether cropped (which I still can’t understand as they won’t keep you dry) or long, the structured silhouette of the coat adds sophistication to the relaxed vibe of barrel jeans, creating a look that’s effortlessly chic.
I would stick to classic colours; beige or camel for a timeless look, layering it over a fine-gauge lightweight jumper, finishing the look with ankle boots or loafers (don’t forget your suede protector ladies).
This is a perfect look for the transitional weather; when you want to stay warm without sacrificing your style.
10. Trendy or edgy …. I’ll go for both please
The ‘ladies that lunch’ jackets are still going strong for Spring and they are a fun way to style up your barrel jeans. Whether you are wearing one over a fitted shirt for a classic look or over a simple tee for more of a contemporary feel, adding a structured bag & some gold jewellery will give both a polished complete look.
However, if you’re in the mood for something a little edgier, how about pairing your barrel jeans with your ‘trusty’ leather jacket. The structure of the leather contrasts perfectly with the relaxed fit of the jeans, and this is a look which is so easy to dress up for a night out with a heeled boot or court, or a pointed colour pop flat?
Source: Pintrest
I’d love to hear how you are styling your barrel leg jeans (or trousers). What is your favourite suggestion from my tips?
As always, if you need any help with locating pieces, styling up items you already own or want to wear then you know where I am!