While the skinny jean (yes, THAT jean!) is making it’s way back into our rotation this fall, the barrel jean is still front and center. And for good reason- it is super wearable and comfy, but there are a few style tips that ensure you are wearing the jean, and not the other way around.
Style Tip 1: Crop the Top
Since this is a more voluminous shape that takes up the full bottom half of your outfit, the easiest way to balance it out is to crop your tops. And you can simply tuck in your shirts/tees/sweaters/etc. You can also go for a cropped jacket, which is perfect for fall layering. I’m loving the suede cropped jacket and also a cool cropped bomber jacket. By cropping on top, you are breaking up the outfit and creating a line that your eye can focus on that helps separate all that material on the bottom from the top. Works like a charm!
Style Tip 2: Show Some (Ankle) Skin
Again, because there’s a lot of material involved in the barrel style, by showing a little skin around the ankle, you break up the heaviness and give the eye a relief space to focus on and balance it all out. I particularly like an open-back mule that shows the ankle and your heel. Or, you can go for a loafer or ballet flat that also shows the top of your foot to maximize that skin exposure. If your barrel jeans are on the longer side, try cuffing or rolling them to create that perfect ankle reveal.
Style Tip 3: Add Some Height
Another shoe tip here- choose a heel. Sometimes we want the more casual effect of a mule or sneaker, but if you want to wear your barrels out, go for a heel. And it doesn’t have to be sky high. In fact, I think a 1-2” heel is perfect. It helps to create that narrow point in the outfit we’ve been discussing from style tip 2, and also provides a more polished option. I like a pointed-toe slingback best, but also find an open toe sandal that’s a bit strappy works well. A heeled sock boot is also a great choice! The next time you’re going out to dinner or a local (non-formal) event, try this barrel jean + kitten heel duo and feel the power of a modern combo!
These are just a few tips to help you style your barrels this fall. Check out this week’s video for more tips and outfit inspiration. Until next week, have a beautiful one! xx G