Wondering What Shoes to Wear With Barrel Jeans This Spring? 5 Styles I Approve Of
From a pair of classic flip-flops to elegant, pointed slingback kitten heels, these are the spring shoe trends to wear with barrel-leg jeans.
As a self-confessed denim-obsessive, I’m the first to admit just how difficult jeans shopping can be. As soon as I find a style that fits me, I just end up buying the same pair in different washes to save the stress of having to do the process all over again. That was until last year, when I finally branched out of my straight-leg comfort zone and tried a pair of the Citizens of Humanity barrel-leg jeans. I was instantly converted.
The barrel-leg jean is a looser style which features a fitted waist, leading into a voluminous leg that then tapers in at the ankle, with variations on how exaggerated the voluminous shape is finished. It’s usually found in a mid or high-waist option, and can also be referred to as a horseshoe or balloon-leg. As someone with a petite frame, it’s difficult for me to find a baggy pair of jeans that doesn’t overwhelm and drown my figure or make it look as if I’ve borrowed a pair straight from my dad's wardrobe. However, thanks to the more structured feel of a barrel-leg, this has quickly become my go-to style.
With baggier jeans, shoes can often get lost under the excess fabric, but thanks to the tapered ankle, barrel jeans make it that much easier to pair with an array of different shoe styles, no matter how voluminous the leg is.
To gain some inspiration (and talk myself into buying another pair), I’ve compiled five different spring shoes to wear with barrel-leg jeans. Scroll on to discover and to also find the best barrel-leg jeans to buy now.
The Best Spring Shoes to Wear With Barrel-Leg Jeans:
1. Heeled Thong Sandals
Style Notes: There’s something inherently chic about a heeled thong sandal. They’re my go-to style of heel to slip on when I want to elevate my outfit, but don’t want it to look too dressed up. With the weather warming up, it’s time to get that pedi booked in and ready to invest in a pair.
Shop the Trend:
Satin makes it feel that bit more elevated.
Tan suede is so chic on a sunny spring day.
This raffia style is making me feel so excited for summer.
Bring colour into your look through your accessories.
Toteme get it right every time with their accessories.
2. Bright Suede Trainers
Style Notes: As a neutral connoisseur, the thought of anything too bright makes me physically wince. However, I have eaten my words after seeing how Marianne has styled her green trainers and am now trying not to impulsively buy a pair. They completely transform a look and bring a dopamine hit to any outfit.
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Burgundy is such a versatile shade that goes with so much.
Pastels and spring go hand-in-hand.
These Cos trainers were a sell-out when they first launched.
The deep forest green hue is so chic.
Adidas are known for their contrasting coloured trainers.
3. Ballet Flats
Style Notes: The beloved ballet flat was a no-brainer to include in a spring shoe roundup. Classic leather, mesh, cut-out, suede, embellished...there’s such an array of styles available now that all achieve such different looks, their versatility really is impressive and it's clear how they have cemented themselves into capsule wardrobe territory as opposed to a fleeting trend.
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This is part of Whistles collaboration with luxury footwear brand Essen.
The ruched edging detail is so chic.
I love an animal print at the minute and this Le Monde Beryl pair have really caught my eye.
This comes in an impressive 12 different colours.
4. Flip-Flops
Style Notes: I don’t know what it is, but there is something about jeans with flip flops that is an absolute favourite of mine. It’s that earmark moment that summer is finally on the way. I’ll spend the majority of spring wearing this combo until it’s warm enough to swap my jeans for a skirt instead. It’s such a comfy option that feels somewhat nostalgic and goes to show the simplest of pairings can create such a chic, cool look.
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One of The Row's bestselling shoes.
I love the detail of the contrasting stitch edge.
Take inspo from Monikh and add a pop of red to your look.
White flip flops with a light blue jean is my favourite combo.
Cobalt blue is set to be such a big colour trend this spring.
5. Pointed Slingback Kitten Heels
Style Notes: Perhaps the sleekest option of all, it’s a failsafe way to instantly elevate your jeans and take them from day-to-night. A pointed slingback heel is a firm fashion favourite, and opting for that kitten heel over a higher stiletto ensures maximum comfort and more wearability for every day.
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Personally I think a pointed slingback is a great shoe if you want to make an investment, they'll never go out of style and will be a pair you'll reach for for years to come.
A chic, affordable high-street option.
Jimmy Choo get it right every time.
A simple black pair is so versatile and will get so much wear out of them.
The lace trim is such a cute finish.
Shop Barrel-Leg Jeans I Love:
The pair that converted me to the barrel-leg jean.
An affordable high-street option to see if the trend is for you.
I love the panel detailing on this Co pair.
A light blue wash is perfect for spring.
I've seen these everywhere recently.
M&S's denim is such high quality at such a good price.
A cropped style is perfect to transition into the colder weather to wear with boots.
Brown denim is such a big trend right now.
Agolde is one of my ultimate go-to brands for denim and an ideal pair if you want that more voluminous leg.
These come in black or white.
The front seam and deep blue wash makes this pair stand out.
Such a classic mid blue wash.
