Barrel jeans are everywhere right now, but figuring out how to wear them in your 30s can feel tricky. I’m sharing a few outfit ideas that make this trend feel modern, flattering, and wearable.
If you’ve been eyeing the barrel jeans trend but aren’t sure if it works for your 30-something style, I get it. These jeans and pants have a fun, fashion-forward shape—but without the right styling, they can feel a little overwhelming.
After testing a few pairs and playing with different combos, I found some easy outfit formulas that make barrel jeans feel fresh, comfortable, and age-appropriate. If you’re over 30 and wondering how to pull them off, here’s how I’m wearing them.
What to look for in a barrel pant or jean
The most important thing is finding a pair of barrel pants that are subtle. The curved shape used to feel weird and scary, but I actually think the curved shape gives you some curves, or smooths over your curves in a really soft way, giving you a subtle hourglass shape. Don’t be afraid to try it — new styles are always scary, but you might be surprised that you like them!
The pair I’m wearing is a little higher price point, but THIS PAIR is similar and very affordable if you want to try the trend without spending a lot.
How to Wear Barrel Jeans
Try barrel pants with a better than basic top
Since barrel pants, especially olive cargo ones, are more casual, you can elevate them with a better than basic top! I kept it super simple with a sweater polo, crossbody bag, and a pair of slim, sleek leather sandals.
ABERCROMBIE SWEATER POLO |EVEREVE PANTS(wearing size 26, they’re true to size!) | SIMILAR SANDALS | QUINCE MINI BAG | MIRANDA FRYE DOUBLE HOOP EARRINGS
Keep it casual with barrel pants, but add accessories
If you’re styling your barrel pants or jeans, you can absolutely keep it super simple and casual with a basic tee (fitted or boxy – your choice) and then add some cute accessories like cool sneakers and a baseball hat, or even some stacked jewelry.
EVEREVE BARREL PANTS (true to size, wearing size 26) | CUTS ALMOST FRIDAY TEE (wearing size small) | ADIDAS SNEAKERS | EVEREVE BASEBALL HAT |SIMILAR PUFFY TOTE BAG | MIRANDA FRYE DOUBLE HOOP EARRINGS
Yes, you can dress up your barrel pants and jeans!
To elevate your barrel pants, you can add a pair of more casual heels and a button up shirt. Try a long sleeved shirt with the sleeves rolled up, or a nice lightweight short sleeve version.
EVEREVE BARREL PANTS (true to size, wearing size 26) | NORDSTROM STRIPED SHIRT (wearing size XS) | SIMILAR DOUBLE STRAP BLOCK HEELED SANDALS | QUINCE REGULAR SIZE WOVEN BAG | MIRANDA FRYE DOUBLE HOOP EARRINGS
