What Exactly are Barrel Jeans?

What is a Barrel Jean?

A twist on the straight leg, the Barrel jean features a high waist with a wide-cut cropped leg that tapers at the ankle – which is surprisingly quite flattering.

And before you pipe in with, “why would I wear anything that resembles a ‘barrel’, indulge me.

How to Style a Barrel Jean

Similar to how we styled pleated trousers back in the day, in order to balance out the volume in the thigh, I recommend a fitted shirt or semi fitted blouse or sweater – tucked in with a belt on top – add add a jacket or blazer as your third piece. Pair this style with sneakers, booties, mules (my fave!), heels, clogs, loafers – for an updated look.

What to Wear with Barrel Jeans

Take advantage of the high waist silhouette by either tucking your top in, or by wearing something cropped or fitted on your upper half. Consider adding a belt – when’s the last time you tried that on for size?

JCrew Peggy Jean, 2021 style, no longer available

Go Parisian with a fitted stripe tee
Crisp white blouse
Crop jacket over a fitted t-shirt
Fitted cashmere sweater
Oversize cashmere sweater – 1/2 tucked

Barrel Jean by Zara — Barrel Jean, Zara | view similar, GAP

Finding Your Perfect Pair

Like with any new silhouette, it will take trying on a few pairs from various brands, to find the one that is perfect for your body type. My personal favorite is the Charlie Jean by Veronica Beard. Full in the leg, I did try this jean on and found it to be my favorite and spot on for a true barrel jean “look”.

I’ve also found some great options from Banana Republic (under $100, and in petite sizes!), Everlane (a utility pant version), Free People, and GAP, all linked for you to browse below. There is a current version of the barrel jean over at Madewell, but for me, the denim was too heavy weight for the silhouette, adding to much bulk for my liking.