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Barrel leg trousers – the new kid on the block, but do they suit everyone?
I’ll be honest, I’ve been a little sceptical about barrel legs since I first saw them last year. Whether they’re a passing trend or here to stay is largely irrelevant. What matters most is whether the cut and style will work for you. There’s no point buying into any trend just because everyone else is wearing it – especially if you have more flattering options available.
So, let’s take a look at barrel leg trousers or jeans and whether they could be a good choice for your wardrobe.
What are they?
With their curved silhouette and tapered ankle, barrel leg trousers or jeans (sometimes called horseshoe) are a modern, fresh alternative to the usual straight or wide-leg cuts. Their distinctive rounded shape through the leg is what gives them the ‘barrel’ name.
Who do they work for?
The fit means they skim the thighs, which can help balance proportions on some body shapes. If you’ve got a more adventurous style personality, this shape will definitely appeal! But equally, anyone looking for a relaxed fit could try them as they don’t have the constriction of skinny jeans.
For those with a clearly defined waist, barrel legs can work as long as your waist stays defined. Tuck in a slim top or opt for a cropped knit to highlight your shape and keep the look balanced. It’s all about proportion, and making the trend work for you. Softening your fabric choice will help to skim your lower body compared to stiffer denim fabrics.
Straighter, more athletic frames will benefit from the illusion of the curve offered through a barrel leg.
Balance can also be provided through the fuller leg of a barrel style which can help to bring balance to your frame if you’re broader in your upper half compared to your bottom half.
Who should be cautious?
If you carry weight around your tummy or your hips, they can be tricky. The barrel silhouette can draw attention downward, potentially emphasising the area.
Heavier fabrics like denim add volume through the hips and thighs, which won’t minimise a fuller lower half. If your bottom half is already proportionally wider, this cut may exaggerate it.
As always, check your silhouette and consider fabric, style and cut as you would with any garment. If in doubt, highlight your narrowest point (often your waist) to create shape and balance. And remember, if they don’t feel right, there are plenty of other styles that will flatter you more!
The secret to making the most of any garment is understanding what suits you so that you can adapt and tweak styles to work for you (and what you already have).
Seasonal Updates
The official launch of my autumn /winter seasonal update is 1 October, but there is a pre-launch perk available. So, if you’re looking to update your wardrobe with some new pieces this season and need some help, simply join the wait list for full details along with an exclusive early access on 26 September.
Register your email here and select ‘Seasonal Updates’ in your preferences. Early access, early inspiration and a wardrobe that feels effortlessly you this autumn is just an email away!