From bowling bags to ballet flats, 2024 has already introduced a number of style trends. But if we had to pick one that will likely last into 2025, it’s the barrel leg jean.
What Are Barrel Leg Jeans?
Also called horseshoe jeans, barrel leg jeans have a relaxed fit that gradually narrows at the ankle, mimicking the curved shape of a horseshoe. While this cut might sound unusual, many fashion enthusiasts argue that it’s surprisingly flattering, offering just the right balance of looseness and shape. In essence, barrel leg jeans are a more polished version of the mom jeans popular in the 90s.
The trend first gained attention when an oversized version appeared on the Alaïa AW23 runway. Since then, variations of the style have popped up in nearly every store and have been embraced by fashion influencers worldwide.
It’s clear that barrel leg jeans have become a fashion staple for 2024. They were the standout item in Sienna Miller’s sell-out collaboration with M&S, and Bella Hadid has been spotted repeatedly wearing her Levi’s barrel leg jeans since summer.
The Debate: Flattering or Not?
Despite their growing popularity, not everyone is convinced that barrel leg jeans are versatile or flattering. To test the look, we asked Sophie Hines, YOU Magazine’s digital and lifestyle editor, and Sophie Dearden, the magazine’s fashion director, to share their takes on the style.
Sophie Hines’ Verdict:
“I’ve tried barrel leg jeans from Marks & Spencer before, and they were a disaster on me,” says Sophie Hines. “The shape made my thighs and knees look huge compared to my ankles, which I didn’t find flattering at all. As someone who spent her twenties in skinny jeans, this silhouette felt like too much of a departure.”
However, Hines admits that she’s learned to make barrel legs work for her. “The key is to make sure they’re long enough to cover my ankles and have a more subtle tapering at the bottom, rather than the exaggerated shapes seen on the runway,” she explains. Hines also notes that she enjoys the return of embellished jeans and likes to pair her barrel legs with a sparkly shoe. “I think barrel legs look best with a kitten heel or ballet pump, as trainers can make the whole look too bulky.”
Sophie Dearden’s Verdict:
For Sophie Dearden, barrel leg jeans are a hit. “I absolutely love them. As someone with fuller thighs, I find them incredibly flattering,” says Dearden. “Skinny jeans are unflattering on my shape, and mom jeans just don’t drape well. But barrel legs give me the perfect silhouette, flaring out at the hips and tapering in at the ankle.”
Dearden suggests pairing barrel leg jeans with a pair of brown suede boots and a cropped jacket for a chic look. “If you can find a pair of Dune boots, they’re a great match for the style.”
Where to Buy Barrel Leg Jeans
Barrel leg jeans are available at a range of price points and styles. For a classic take, Marks & Spencer’s collection, including Sienna Miller’s collaboration, offers great options. For something more high-end, brands like ME + EM and Reiss are also worth checking out.
Whether you’re a maximalist or a minimalist, the barrel leg jean offers a versatile style that can be dressed up or down. While the look may not be for everyone, it’s clear that this trend is here to stay for the foreseeable future.
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