One thing to know about me is that I love jeans. I've always been more of a trouser person than a dress person, and denim has always been a key part of my wardrobe. However, as many of us know, jeans are a particularly difficult item to buy.
Personally, I spend a long time searching for the elusive "perfect pair" as they range so vastly in cut, fit and sizing from one brand (and even within a brand's offering) to the next, and if you've ever spent time in a fitting room with just jeans, you'll know it's rarely a fun day out. That's why I take one for the team and try them for you—to save you the exhaustion and turmoil of finding a great pair.
I've already tried and tested a whole host of jeans, from high-street favourites like the COS Arch jeans and Marks and Spencer's best pairs to the ultimate affordable jeans round-up, and I regularly consult my Who What Wear UK colleagues for their recommendations to share with you. The latest pair that's seriously impressed me? Free People's We The Free Good Luck Mid-Rise Barrel Jeans (£98).
This recommendation came from Annie, our assistant social media editor. After spotting her wearing them in the office, I knew I'd seen various fashion people in them too, and it turns out that fashion editors and stylish dressers are enamoured with them, so much so that they're a best-selling style for Free People, and for good reason. Whilst straight-leg styles are eternal and wide-leg cuts continue to rise, the fashion crowd has turned to a more striking shape—the barrel-leg. And I predict this will continue to be a favourite style throughout 2025.
Often referred to as horseshoe jeans, this style takes on a dramatic shape that sees a regular-fit waist balloon into a wide-leg shape and then taper at the hem, and like most of Free People's best pieces, they come in 21(!) washes, from various blues to bold colours. The fit is mid-rise, but of course, you can size up if you prefer a low-waist moment. Speaking of size, they're offered in waist sizes 24–35. Before I saw them, I had been eyeing up a pair from Citizens of Humanity, but at £88-£98, these are far more affordable.
As you can see, this is a pair that can easily be dressed up or down as you please. Take inspiration from Siân Eastment-Williams (pictured above) for a colourful daytime look, or mute your tones like Sinéad Gannon (second-top image) for more of an evening feel.
Keep scrolling to shop the Free People We The Free Good Luck Barrel Jeans.
SHOP FREE PEOPLE'S WE THE FREE GOOD LUCK BARREL JEANS:
Black jeans are seriously versatile.
Light blue and brown is a seriously good pairing.
Freshen up your winter outfits by swapping in cream jeans.
I rarely wear colourful jeans, but these have changed my mind.
They come in both regular and short lengths.
Such a great shade.
The seam details are such a nice touch.
There's truly a wash for everyone.
Relaxed, comfortable and chic.
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