It’s safe to say that we’ve already established the demise of skinny jeans over the past few years. It’s hard not to see the shift. Everywhere I look, denim outfits are getting more and more relaxed, and because of it, non-skinny jeans are officially becoming the go-to style for fashion people everywhere. It’s just a pattern I noticed—I promise I’m not purposefully hating on skinnies. (If you love them, do you!)
But if you’re a fashion-minded person and aren’t reaching for skinny jeans on the daily, well, what are you reaching for? My prediction for 2024 and beyond is barrel-leg jeans. I know you’re thinking, “There’s no way in hell that those voluminous jeans will become my go-to style,” but hear me out. This new wave of non-skinny jeans isn’t the ultra-baggy and shapeless style that has us all emotionally damaged. Instead, it’s more of a wide, tapered fit. In other words, they’re balloon jeans that actually have a shape and structure to them, so they don’t forfeit looking polished. They’re bubbling up for 2024, so I’m predicting they’ll come to define the year, and trendsetting denim brands like Agolde and EB Denim are already behind some of the standout pairs defining the look.
To find the shape you’re looking for, plug in keywords like “balloon jeans” and “barrel jeans” into your favorite retailer’s search bar, but they can also sometimes be called “wide leg tapered jeans”. You’ll want to look out for a shape that’s fitted in the waist, flares out around the mid-leg, and then tapers in at the ankle. Take a look at the material—you’ll want to make sure the denim is a high cotton count, 95% or higher is going to ensure the jeans maintain their structure.
Now, shop the best barrel-leg jeans at every price point.
I was shocked by how much I liked these balloon jeans. I usually shy away from anything that will exaggerate the volume of my lower half, but the shape of this pair really blew me away. It’s roomy and tapered in all the right places. I ended up going down a size from what I’m wearing in the other fits you’re about to see, and it ended up being the perfect barrel-leg yet snug-in-the-waist fit.
“I wasn’t sure this style was for me, but I was pleasantly surprised by how well it looks on,” one Youtube reviewer said. “I love everything about these jeans. It looks great with flats and sneakers. Definitely a keeper.”
Pros: High rise fit, subtle balloon shape; organic cotton that will soften over time; Cons: Runs large, limited color options
Material: 100% organic cotton
Size range: 23 to 34
Color range: Three blue washes, one white, and one black option
