A Fashion Lesson in Styling the Barrel Jeans Trend Like a Pro

“What’s the deal with barrel jeans?” asked one of my friends. “It seems like everyone is wearing them—(even some non-jeans-wearing people have been swayed), so should I hop on the wave now, or will they fall out of style soon?”

I encouraged her to purchase a pair without hesitation. Not only are barrel jeans one of the biggest denim trends of fall 2024, but their inherent effortlessness makes them destined for the long haul.

Defined by a snug fit in the waist, a billowing silhouette throughout the thighs, and a tapered hemline around the ankle, barrel jeans are naturally striking. “The bold and voluminous shape of these roomy pants can instantly amp up any outfit,” says celebrity stylist and creative consultant Marissa Pelly.

One glance at Pelly's Instagram page reveals barrel jeans cooly styled with fall essentials like leather bomber jackets and sharp blazers, including Alaïa’s cult-favorite Round Jeans. During the Fall 2023 fashion week circuit, the Parisian label showcased the light wash barrel jeans styled beside a sculpted denim jacket. Their modern twist on the age-old Canadian tuxedo arguably catalyzed the fashion industry’s barrel-jean obsession.

Since then, this statement-making denim trend has found its way into numerous collections. “Some of the best barrel jeans on the market are from brands like Agolde, Entire Studios, and A.W.A.K.E. Mode,” says Pelly.

Coveted designs by Toteme, Nili Lotan, and Frame have also risen the ranks and sold out online. “I think these pants have become so popular because they’re just as comfortable as flattering,” Pelly notes.

This also explains why stylish celebrities have hopped on the barrel jeans bandwagon. In the past few months, Katie Holmes has swiftly turned this trend into one of her signature styles by elevating laid-back wardrobe staples like button-down shirts, knit sweaters, and oversized shackets.

Jennifer Lopez has also co-signed the look—mainly wearing the baggy jeans trend with form-fitted turtlenecks, shearling-lined UGG boots, and glossy designer handbags—in true J.Lo fashion.

But you don’t have to be an A-lister to dabble in this fashion-forward denim silhouette. And although barrel jeans might seem intimidating, there are plenty of streamlined ways to approach them. Suppose you want to take barrel jeans for a casual spin. The stylist recommends coordinating them with a simple white T-shirt layered beneath a cozy cardigan and pairing them with loafers styled with socks. The preppy combination is gaining traction amongst the savvy It-girl crowd. Most importantly, Pelly says to ease into barrel jeans by wearing them with your comfortable pieces, like your favorite boots or your go-to jacket." Adapting it to your taste helps it work alongside and not against your personal style.”

And to transition your look into the evening," Pelly suggests a sleek leather jacket and adding lots of jewelry into the mix. Then, swap your loafers for heels—the tapered hem of your barrel jeans will look great hovering above a pair of pumps.”

For corporate gals who want to wear their barrel jeans to work, Pelly has an office-friendly outfit formula that will get the job done, too. “Enhance your denim pants with a tailored blazer worn over a high-neck bodysuit,” she says. Then, finish things off with chic ankle boots.”

Feeling inspired to give barrel jeans a try? Go ahead and take notes from Pelly’s style playbook. It's the perfect time to test-drive these bottoms—with virtually every denim brand carrying a version. Keep scrolling for more barrel jean options ahead.

More Styling Ideas for Barrel Jeans

Pair your barrel bottoms with a pragmatic barn jacket to tackle two trends at once. Opt for slightly distressed or embellished jeans to play up the texture of your outfit.

“There’s nothing I love more than wearing a turtleneck and my favorite long wool overcoat,” says Pelly. “I’ll usually call on my barrel jeans to shake things up a bit.”

Slip into dark wash barrel jeans that give off a moody vibe. For the rest of your look, stick with a neutral color palette or add a slight color pop.

Minimalists will appreciate this uncomplicated uniform; all you’ll need is a black buttoned cardigan, medium-wash barrel jeans, and black boots. If you get chilly, pull on a puffer jacket.

Bring on the drama with a floor-sweeping leather trench coat that demands attention. Don’t be surprised when you make a few heads turn.

Meet the Style Expert

Marissa Pelly

Marissa Pelly is a fashion stylist and creative consultant in New York City. Her clients include Ice Spice, Austin Millz, Camrus Johnson, Nicky Hilton, Bailey Bryan, Bartees Strange, Bobby Bones, and Caitlin Estell. Her keen eye for style, attention to detail, and immaculate taste solidify a foundation for all clients. Marissa's work has been featured on the covers of Billboard and Paper magazines as well as in Teen Vogue, Haute Living, Tmrw Magazine and beyond.