The Ultimate Barrel Leg Pants Shopping Guide
Everything You Need to Know Before Investing in Barrel Leg Pants
Barrel leg pants have been a thing for a few seasons now, but if you're anything like me, you might have spent more money than you'd like to admit on styles that didn’t quite work out as expected. When you're first drawn to a trend, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement without considering the fit and functionality that will work best for your body and lifestyle. Here's what I wish I had known before splurging on bare leg pants, and hopefully, it’ll save you from making the same mistakes.
The Two Main Types: OGs vs. Straight Leg Barrels
1. The OG Bare Leg Pants – You know the ones. These were the trend that kicked it all off. Designers introduced a dart at the knee, creating a bold, barrel-like shape that made a dramatic statement. When shopping for these, size down—most brands design these to run large, and they’re often mid-rise, so the extra fabric can add bulk if you’re not careful.
Now, I love this look, but it’s best suited for when you’re aiming for a more oversized, “boyfriend” vibe. For my day pair, I went true to size to keep it comfy and relaxed, but when I want something more fitted (like for evening outings), I size down for a cleaner silhouette.
2. The Straight Leg Barrel – This style is a bit more refined and structured, offering the same unique barrel shape but with a less dramatic flare. If you like the idea of bare leg pants but aren’t into the ultra-structured, exaggerated look, these are a perfect compromise. They're easier to style and more versatile depending on your personal aesthetic.
The biggest thing I’ve noticed about straight leg barrels is that most brands are making them high-rise. So if you're shopping for these, you’ll want to stick with your true size or possibly size up if you're curvier or need a bit more room around the waist and hips. Trust me—if you’re used to lower-rise styles, the high-rise may take some getting used to, but it’s definitely worth the investment for the flattering shape it provides.
Which One is Right for You?
If you’re leaning toward the OGs with the dramatic dart at the knee, be prepared to embrace the oversized look, or size down for something more tailored. They’re a bit trickier to style, but they bring a lot of personality. On the other hand, if you prefer something simpler and more versatile, the straight-leg barrels are definitely the way to go—they’re easier to work with and have a great balance of structure and comfort.
Ultimately, both styles can be fun additions to your wardrobe. They bring a unique silhouette that gives an instant personality boost to any outfit, but understanding the fit and finding the one that works for you will help you make smarter purchases and avoid feeling like you've wasted your money.
Want to see my favorite bare leg pants styles? Head over to my ShopMy to check out the options I recommend and make your shopping experience a lot easier. Trust me, I’ve already done the legwork for you!
Have you tried either of these styles? Which one do you prefer? I’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments!
xoxo,
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