Words by Sophia Miller
The 1970s had their flares, the 1980s their acid wash and the 2010s their skinny jeans – but 2025’s defining denim trend has to be the barrel leg. Also sometimes called horseshoe, carrot or balloon jeans, barrel-leg jeans are characterised by their curved silhouette that’s fitted at the waist, wider around the knee and tapered at the ankle. Try a pair, and you’ll find they’re surprisingly flattering and easy to wear – with a voluminous point of difference that gives even the simplest looks that little extra something. Here are four ways to style this season’s ubiquitous jeans for warm weather.
Wondering what shoes to wear with barrel-leg jeans? The dramatic denim shape lends itself particularly well to delicate kitten heels. The extra height gives you leeway to play with unexpected silhouettes even further by way of an asymmetric T-shirt or blouse that draws attention to shoulders. The result: very ‘cool girl goes out-out’.
That’s the evening outfit sorted – but what about the day-after coffee run? Balance the volume of your barrel-leg jeans with a slim cami or vest top, add a pair of sneakers, throw on your favourite cap, and you’re ready to go. The key is to ensure your jeans are cropped enough to show a few centimetres of ankle for the most flattering result.
A tailored pairing favoured by fashion editors sees barrel-leg jeans coupled with a longline waistcoat or button-up top. For the summer months, add a pair of barely-there flat sandals to avoid detracting from the sharp silhouetting up top – then swap them out for loafers or ankle boots when the weather takes a turn.
If you’re lucky enough to have a more relaxed office dress code, here’s an outfit idea that’ll help you smarten up your denim. Lean into loose with an oversized shirt worn over barrel jeans in your wash of choice, then add a contrast touch (à la the wrong shoe theory) by way of ballet flats – Mary Jane or otherwise. Smart and comfortable: just how we like it.
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