Wide Leg or Barrel Jeans After 60? How I Wear Both
I admit it I do love my jeans. Every fall I pull my jeans out of hiding, line them up, and decide which ones earn a spot for the season. This year the vote wasn’t remotely close. Two shapes won: wide leg and barrel. I’ll admit the barrel took some convincing (a lot of convincing). When they first showed up, that curve at the knee looked like a lot of denim to manage. But the right pair, styled the right way, turns out to be one of the most stylish things a woman our age can wear. Today I’m sharing how I wear both, with statement jackets, cashmere, a leather trench, my favorite blazer, and even a holiday look, plus the shoes that make each shape work. And if you’re still building your denim foundation, start with my guide to the best ways to look stylish in jeans after 60. Grab a cup of coffee this is a long one packed with inspiration.
Wide-Leg vs. Barrel Jeans: What’s the Difference?
Wide-leg jeans are exactly what they sound like. They fit through the hip and fall straight and full to the hem, giving you long, clean lines from waist to floor.
Barrel-leg jeans are the more interesting shape. They curve out through the knee and narrow again to a tapered hem, so the leg looks a little like, well, a barrel. You’ll also see them called horseshoe or balloon jeans, and the curve ranges from subtle to dramatic depending on the brand. I personally steer clear of the dramatic.
If you spent years in skinny jeans and then made the leap to straight-leg jeans, both of these will feel like a lot of fabric at first. Give it a week. The comfort alone will win you over.
Which Shape Works for Your Body Type?
Wide-leg jeans are the most forgiving denim silhouette I know. The extra fabric skims over the hips and upper thighs instead of clinging, and a high rise defines the waist. They work on almost every body type, and if you want to look taller, a hem that just grazes the floor over a block heel is the closest thing to magic.
Barrels take a bit more thought because they add volume at the knee. If you have a pear shape, look for a softer curve rather than an exaggerated one, and keep the top half fitted so the outfit doesn’t read as volume on volume.
I have a long torso and shortish legs, and I’ve found a cropped barrel that ends right at the ankle is the most flattering version for me. No hemming required.
The Pairs I’m Wearing
These are the jeans that made the cut this fall.
Wide Legs
Rag & Bone Miramar. I brag about these so often you are probably sick to death. They look like wide-leg jeans and feel like sweatpants, because they’re actually printed terry. I am wearing a 27 in the jeans and a Small in the jacket.
The leg drapes instead of dragging, and I can wear them on a long travel day without counting the hours until I can change. Rag & Bone set the bar for sweatpant jeans, and no one has cleared it yet in my opinion. I like the Sophie in the venice wash, or the nolita if you like a darker wash. The the track version is a fun option on casual days just as well. The Farm Rio sweatercoat is still avaiable from last year. I constantly get compliments on this. I am wearing a small.
If the Miramar is my comfort pair, the Le Slim Palazzo is my polished one. The rise is high, it’s slim through the hip so there’s no extra fabric bunching at the top, and then the leg falls wide and long all the way to the floor. That combination is what makes these so flattering.
You get all the drama of a wide-leg jean without the bulk, and there’s just enough stretch. Add a low block-heeled boot and they make your legs look a mile long, which I will take every time. It comes in numerous washes and colors and you can often find them on Nordstrom Rack for less. I am wearing a 27 and a small in the jacket below.
Barrel
I am wearing a small in the Frank and Eileen jacket (which I love). It is pricey but timeless and super comfy.
Ruti. Ruti was making barrel jeans long before they were everywhere, and it shows. They wear like iron. The curve is there, but it’s soft and sculpted rather than balloon-sized, so the jeans add shape without adding bulk. I am wearing a 6 petite. This jean is so well made and fits beautifully.
They come in petite, which means the barrel actually lands where it should on a shorter leg instead of swallowing me. If you’ve been curious about barrels but afraid of looking like you’re wearing a costume, start here. I am wearing the petite 6. And they are currently 20% off!
Frank and Eileen Brennan-99% vintage denim-gentle curve, the cropped ankle length with a finished hem and a waistband that sits just below your natural waistline, runs small size up. These are another great option. I am wearing a 27. The Tommy Bahama sweater jacket is to die for. Very roomy. I am wearing a small.
Madewell Curvy Barrel-Leg Jeans. These are the pair I’d hand to any barrel skeptic, and the first pair I tried thanks to a savvy Madewell employee. They’re not too wide and not too big, just a gentle curve through the leg that reads modern without trying too hard. The curvy fit means no gap at the back of the waist, which anyone who has wrestled with jeans knows is half the battle. Even better, they’re currently $50 off.
If you like a little distressing a new fave of mine and yours are these amazing jeans from Chicos that I am living in and constantly get asked if they are RL. They are more of a boyfriend style but I LOVE them and wear them with everything. You obviously do too as they are constantly in line for a reader’s weekly favorite.
How I Style Them: My Outfit Formulas
Every look below follows one simple rule: balance the volume. A wide or curved leg wants a fitted top, a defined waist, or a shorter layer on top. If you love oversized tops (I do), tuck the front or choose something cropped and boxy so the whole outfit keeps some shape. Here are the outfit formulas I keep coming back to.
With a Statement Jacket
When the jacket is the focal point, everything else gets quiet: a simple tee or a fine-knit sweater, great jeans, and a great shoe. With barrels reach for a jacket that ends at the hip or above so the curve of the leg shows. With wide-leg jeans I can go longer.
I am wearing a small in the beautiful Farm Rio jacket and a 27 in the jeans.
With Cashmere, Merino or Heavy Cotton
This is everyday dressing at that I live in. A cashmere sweater, wide-leg or barrel jeans, and loafers or boots what’s not to like? Add an interesting scarf and a great bag, and I’m out the door in five minutes. With barrels, a slightly cropped sweater or a fuller tuck keeps the proportions right.
I am wearing a small in the BR cashmere sweater. This is absolutely the softest cashmere sweater I have owned at any price.
With an Amped-Up Chore Jacket
I am not totally on board with the chore jacket look on my frame. I love it on others. A chore jacket is the definition of a casual look, which is exactly why I like this amped up version from J Crew.
I am wearing a small in the J Crew jacket.
With a Leather Trench
I found this tie-waist leather trench at Zara, and it’s quickly become a favorite. Tied at the waist, it balances the volume of either shape. With wide-leg jeans, the longer length creates one long, lean line from shoulder to hem. With barrels, the cinched waist echoes the curve of the leg and keeps the look from going boxy. Left open, or tied loosely in back, it’s more relaxed. Easily my favorite leather jacket of the season.
With a Blazer
You know I can’t write a post without a blazer. With wide-leg jeans, a longer boyfriend blazer over a tucked-in button-down is about as polished as denim gets. Barrels are pickier. A blazer that hits at the hip shows off the barrel shape, while a long, oversized one can swallow it. Push up the sleeves, show a little waist, and you’re there. [Link]
A Holiday Denim Look
Who says jeans can’t go to a party? Add a little sparkle and a dressier shoe:: a kitten heeled boot or velvet birdies or even cowboy boots with wide-leg jeans, a statement earring, and a bag with some sparkle or texture.
I am wearing a small in the Johnny Was jacket.
The Best Shoes for Wide-Leg and Barrel Jeans
Shoes can make or break both shapes, barrels especially. Here’s what works.
Ballet flats. My favorite with barrel-leg jeans. A cropped barrel and a pretty flat show a sliver of ankle, which keeps all that volume from overwhelming you. Ballet flats are lovely with ankle-length wide-leg jeans too.
Loafers and low-heeled boots. My everyday picks for both shapes, especially in an interesting texture. With barrels, choose a boot that sits close under the hem. With wide-leg jeans, let the hem cover most of the boot.
Sneaks for a casual option.
Wide-Leg or Barrel? Why Not Both?
Denim trends come and go, and the barrel jean trend may be one of them. But trying a new shape is how a wardrobe stays alive, and how your personal style keeps growing instead of standing still. Pick the shape that makes you feel most like yourself, or do what I did and wear both.
Looking for more denim inspiration? Try my posts on Best Ways to Look Stylish and Chic in Denim After 60. Chic Ways to Style the Double Denim Trend, and The Best Jean Jacket Looks for Stylish Women over 60 and see which Denim Trends Women Over 60 can Actually Pull Off.
Hi Cindy ~ I like both barrel and wide-leg jeans. Like you, I had to get used to them at first. Eileen Fisher’s barrel jeans are the most flattering on me. They are not too exaggerated and are actually slimming on me.
I think the barrel jeans have a tendency to make people look bow-legged!
Ha!! I think you have to be careful choosing ones that suit your body type Cara!
Why do you look so good in every cut of Jean? I think I have tried on about 10 different versions of barrel legs and every pair has looked faintly ridiculous on me. To be honest, I haven’t worn jeans since 1991, when I weighed 110lbs and rocked a pair of Trussardi jeans. However, I don’t weigh 110 lbs anymore and being short waisted, find jeans both a trial and not comfortable to wear. Am waiting for my Frank and Eileen Wexford s to arrive – took the plunge and ordered the Cement colour, Fingers crossed they fit, Now for the perfect jacket.
Hi Susan
I do not look good in straight leg jeans-you won’t see me wearing those! I have big thighs so those are not flattering on me at all. The really big barrels are not flattering on me either. I have a hard time with jeans as well.
Cindy, thank you for this terrific guide to both wide leg and barrel. I like them both, and your examples of many tops were so helpful. I’m going to spend time experimenting today! Question about the Gentle Souks loafers, which are beautiful and go well – how well do they work with bunions? Need to be stretched? Thanks for all your work and showing us options.
Hi EP
I have shoe stretchers that I purchased on Amazon and I do stretch every pair of shoes and boots! However the Gentle Souls loafers need very little stretching. This pair was comfy right out of the box and is honestly my most comfortable shoe.
You would look great in a paper bag. You always look perfect in whatever you’re wearing.
Hi Janette
You never see the bad ones tee hee!
Hi Cindy,
Great post today. As much as I love jeans, I don’t wear them too much of the year because of the heat here in the Phoenix. I keep seeing the Ruti On the loose work pants and wonder if you have tried them? They look light and good for travel but the price is pretty high, so any info would be appreciated.
Hi Nancy
Yes I featured them awhile back and like them very much! You can see them in this post https://cindyhattersleydesign.com/14-day-early-fall-travel-capsule-for-women-over-50/
I have to say that I, too, was out with the barrel jean until I tried one from QVC. The LOGO by Lori Goldstein 5 pocket barrel ankle jean is divine. Great fabric, colors, perfect leg width and great price. Plus they come in Petite, Regular and Tall sizes (which I need). Doesn’t seem like many, if any, influencers mention QVC items. Perhaps they don’t offer affiliate links or very little? Anyway seems I buy most of my clothing and jewelry items there. I used to make fun of my Mom for watching QVC, now here I am….
Love your posts.
Hi Dani
QVC actually offers strong affiliate commissions, and I’ve partnered with them on opportunities in the past. That said, I’ve found my readers don’t tend to purchase from them as often as from other retailers. They can also be tricky to link to, since their items sell out quickly, and readers get frustrated when they click through and the product is gone. On the plus side, they often have fantastic deals!
I’m 5’3 and have the Ruti barrel leg jeans. If I don’t balance the shoes and tops I feel like Charlie Chaplin!!! They are comfortable and they are petite length but also wish I had not purchased the higher waist. So who makes a barrel or wide leg with a bit lower waist? I’m short waisted so hard to find a comfortable fit. Love the suggestions Cindy!!
Hi Leslie
You and I have the opposite problem! Have you tried the Madewell? They are definately a lower waist. Maybe some of the other readers have more suggestions! Always helps to throw your questions out there. Someone will chime in!
Thank you, Cindy, for another helpful post about wide leg/barrel leg jeans. I’ve decided I’m not the best candidate for these styles (although I like them). I am now 5 ft 2 1/2 in. tall and my middle is a bit thicker than it used to be. I’m better with straight leg jeans styles (I am in my 70’s) a better look (not a rectangle silhouette.
I always learn so much from your posts, and love your use of artistic tops and jackets, creating a unique style that is ageless!
Hi Patricia
Thank you so much! Aren’t we lucky that we have so many options. Thankfully we do not have to wear a style that isn’t flattering on our body type.
I am still in the early stages of becoming accustomed to soft barrel pants. My first pair nearly two years ago went to consignment ,since they were an exaggerated barrel and stiff. I learned to look for the next versions in fall colours and softer fabric. I am only 5’3” and not slim but a medium build, so I like your reminders about proportions when choosing a top. I am really enjoying my soft corduroy pull on wider pants by Quince . You’re right about a longer line , especially with a bit of a chunky heel. This post really shows your remarkable and distinctive style really well, Cindy . I think it’s what draws many to stay with you. I have a few beautiful shawls and need to try out wearing them…but not grocery shopping…might end up in the pile of broccoli! Seriously, Cindy, any tips about wearing a shawl successfully?
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Hi Cath
You read my mind. I am working on a post on scarves as we speak!
Loved this post. I went searching for barrel jeans last weekend and the J Crew Zoe style was a winner for my straight, long-legged figure. They are a mid-rise which I prefer, don’t pinch in so much at the waist, and are a sturdy denim. I went with the regular length as I prefer an ankle length in this cut of jean. They instantly modernize my look with just a little styling effort.
Thank you Paula for weighing in! I will give that one a look next time I can pop in to J Crew!!
I like the wide leg jeans that aren’t too voluminous, but the barrel jeans make my thighs look huge when they are really fairly normal. They seem to do that in most of the photos I see and I don’t know anyone personally who wears them. Cindy, you can pull them off and I think you have great style. I am all for comfort, but I guess I am just a conservative when it comes to trends.
Hi Marcie
I totally understand I think many of the barrel styles are far too voluminous and make me look clownish quite frankly. The three I have featured here (particulary) the Ruti can be flattering on most. The only two wide legs I have found that I like to date are the two I featured here. I have big legs and I understand your dilemna. Stick with a slight flare. They flatter almost everyone. I listed some above in the comments that I like.
I tried! Honestly, these styles don’t flatter me and I don’t feel like spending oodles of time getting them to. I have no hips and skinny legs. The first time I tried on a pair of wide-legs my husband laughed at me!
Hi Michele
We have to wear what we love! Have you tried a kick flare jean like Mersea’s murphy https://go.shopmy.us/p-96689604? Or this one from J Crew https://go.shopmy.us/p-96689941 or this one from the Gap https://go.shopmy.us/p-96690323? The great thing about jeans now …there are so many options!
I find it very hard to be excited for clothing that is always “ high end” priced over 200. I enjoy your blog , being a 66 year old woman who loves to look “ put together “. Bloggers these days must make a lot of money to put an outfit together for over 400 dollars for a single outfit. Just my thoughts ,give me my quince or Nydj denim.
Donna Maurer
Hi Donna
I love Quince but have not found their jeans to flatter my figure. That is the only reason I did not include them in my Quince post here. I linked the Frame jeans from Nordstrom Rack, and I have a link to my shop where I feature only Nordstrom Rack favorites here. I do however love gap, madewell (which I included on sale) in todays post.I also shared some jeans that have been very popular at Walmart. I do my best to feature items for every budget. I don’t however “hauls” where I order things just to sell. Let me know where you shop and what you would like to see more of. I do my best!
Thanks! I live in jeans, so this was very helpful. My faves are always Madewell. I’ve been wearing their barrell jeans since they came out. LOVE them. I have to say, the chico jeans are interesting. I sort of wish they did not have the patches, but the comfort you describe makes them seem worthy of a look. I haven’t shopped in Chicos for a while and I need to check it out!
Hi Marsha
I love Madwell too. I didn’t feature mine because I have put on weight and they do not fit!! I am dieting and hoping to get back into them. Madewell really knows their jeans and if you live near a store (I don’t) the salespeople are very well versed on what styles look best on whom. I have to tell you those Chicos jeans are divine! I know many don’t like the distressing but it is minimal. I live in mine because they fit so well and are so darn comfortable. I am going to check and see if that style comes without distressing-I would buy another pair I love them so much. I think these are the same but without distressing. https://go.shopmy.us/p-96697293
I cannot with barrel jeans. But I do love my wide leg jeans and will keep wearing them long after the fashion ship has sailed away. They are so very comfortable, and I frequently get compliments on them. I enjoy your styling tips. I’m 5’5″ size 10 but your advice is quite helpful.
You look fabulous in your photos, evidence that a great haircut, sunnies, a red lippy and a smile, make everything look better.
I am going to visit Chicos soon and try those distressed jeans, another road I never thought I’d take. They do look very RL.
Hi PJ
I cannot say enough about those darn Chicos jeans!! My daughter even approves!! Give them a try you won’t be disappointed …they are soft and comfy!
Just ordered them online. Will give them a try out in my closet with the pieces I have.
Hope you enjoy them PJ!!