How to wear the barrel-leg jean trend

If there’s one denim silhouette that’s it this season, it’s horseshoe jeans. “You can’t scroll through your social media without seeing someone in them,” says Los Angeles-based stylist Kirsten Reader. Also known as barrel or balloon leg jeans, this style is fashioned with a fitted waist through the hips then “balloons” out somewhere mid-thigh with a curved, wide leg, and then tapers back in at the ankles. While these jeans won't be everyone's favorite, if styled correctly, the trend feels fresh for fall and is a master class on owning a cool and modern look.

If this silhouette has you over a barrel on how to wear it, we’ve asked a few experts on how to style horseshoe or balloon jeans. Unique in its look, it can seem intimidating, but these jeans are actually quite versatile. A quick fit note from Reader: Barrel jeans run large as the intention is to wear them looser, so if you prefer them more fitted at the waist, size down.

Balance the proportions of the look

Balloon jeans are all about volume. To keep the pants the focal point, wear them with a more fitted top. A trick New York City-based celebrity and fashion stylist Brendan Cannon employs is to lean into the refined, relaxed fit by pairing horseshoe pants with an oversized T-shirt and a tailored vest. “Creating this silhouette gives that chic appearance of not trying too hard but it’s very calculated,” he says.

Taking this trend by storm, boho brand Citizens of Humanity boasts several horseshoe jeans in their arsenal, and the Horseshoe frayed high-rise wide-leg jeans are one of the more classic examples. They're cut for a relaxed fit with an edgy fray, and the wash proves endlessly versatile in winter white.

With distressed detailing throughout, paint splatter features, oversized patch pockets, and contrast drawstring waist, the We The Free Moxie Pull-On Barrel Jeans are all about excess, so keep your top fitted to counterbalance the low-slung, slouchy tapered silhouette.

Play with the rule of thirds with big pants and a small top

Following the rule of thirds when putting together outfits (a silhouette looks more well-proportioned when the top takes up one-third of the outfit, leaving the remaining two-thirds for the bottom), Cannon points to the “big pant, small top” combo to provide duality with voluminous horseshoe pants. Add a blazer or cropped oversized jacket to complete the look. The Reformation Alanis Mid Rise Barrel Leg Jeans are designed to be relaxed with a slouchy fit and wide leg. Made with organically grown cotton, the light wash pairs well with a cropped tee or sweater for the fall.

Keep it simple with plain accessories and a tank

Paying homage to another trend this season, the ballet flat, Reader pairs a fitted tank, flats, and a good belt for an effortless and chic take on the balloon jean. “The juxtaposition of [the ballet flats’] delicate appearance with the modern and tougher look of horseshoe jeans really plays off the ‘wrong shoe’ theory look (a hack that involves picking the most unexpected shoe to finish off a look).” Throw on a white tank when the weather is still warm, and when temps drop, top it off with a knit jacket. Add in a tote bag and you’re set for the day.

The A-line leg of the Urban Outfitters BDG Rih Extreme Baggy Mid-Rise Jean offers a throwback slouchy loose fit that softens over time thanks to the non-stretch denim. It’s finished with stitched detailing at the knees for just a hint of an edgy vibe, which plays nicely with the softness of a ballet flat.

Dress them up with a blazer and heels

Jeans are always welcome at the “fancy” table, provided you know how to accessorize them. “Don’t be afraid to dress up [barrel jeans] for a night out with a beautiful pump and a dressy tank top,” says Reader. “Top it off with a blazer and a clutch.”

Old Navy’s Extra High-Waisted Non-Stretch Black Balloon Ankle Jeans give off a pumped-up ‘90s vibe that pairs great with this season’s oversized blazer for elevated style. The clever secret-smooth front pockets also offer a smoothing effect for zero added bulk.

Cut from rigid denim blended with 80 percent regenerative cotton, the high-rise Frame +Net Sustain Long Barrel high-rise tapered jeans have curved legs that gently taper at the ankles creating the perfect accompaniment to an elegant cashmere sweater and a pair of pumps for a night out.

Play with the unexpected by adding boots

For a sleek look, Reader pairs horseshoe jeans with a flat or heeled boot. “To play up on the fashion trend, a kitten heel boot gives it a fresh look for the fall,” she adds. Top it off with a slim lightweight knit tucked in. “I’m partial to a turtleneck when the temperature begins to drop.” Keep the sleek look with a shoulder bag and you’ll look sophisticated with an edge.

The OGs of oversized jeans (hello, 501s), Levi’s Made In Japan Barrel Women's Jeans cinch at the waist like a paper bag to create an exaggerated barrel-shaped leg. Because they are constructed with a relaxed, looser fit, and a slight taper cropped at the ankle, the overall slightly curvy shape is perfect for an ankle boot with a sharply contrasted pointy toe.

Get sporty by adding a pair of sneakers

When you’re looking for a casual shoe to wear with your balloon jeans, Reader suggests going for a vintage slim-look sneaker like the adidas Gazelle, while Cannon warns against high-tops. Top that off with a sweatshirt and a crossbody bag. “It updates a cozy casual look, making it more fashionable than boring, thanks to the statement shape of the jeans,” says Reader.

The Everlane The Utility Barrel Jean is complete with a waist-nipping high rise, a cool curved leg, and an easy cropped length. Plus, it has utilitarian details like accent stitching and patch pockets for a craftsman-inspired look, creating an ease to your sporty and casual vibe.

When in doubt, put a belt on it

Belting your horseshoe jeans is a chic way to turn around an outfit when your creative juices aren’t flowing, says Cannon. “Belt it and tuck a button-down or any free-flowing blouse into your pants,” he explains.

The high rise nature of DL1961’s Taylor Barrel Ultra High Rise 27" Vintage Light voluminous barrel leg jean is perfect for belting, with its fitted waist and hip transitioning into a tapered leg that hits ankle length. It features light stitching and brushed silver hardware, and the vintage-inspired wash looks especially nice paired with a crisp white button-down.

For an unforgettable look, make it monochromatic

Everyone loves a monochromatic moment. Cannon suggests matching your jeans with a similar color top, jacket, or shoes to create the ultimate put-together look. Instead of fretting over exact matches, pair complementing tones from the same color family.

The Citizens of Humanity Horseshoe Wide-Leg Cropped Jeans are a frayed hem pair in gray-wash denim that act as a great anchor for an all-gray monochromatic outfit. Go for a simple tucked-in shirt, thick cardigan, bodysuit, or turtleneck, along with a suede bootie for a complete fall outfit that flatters and elongates your figure.