Unsure what shoes to pair with barrel jeans this spring? Here are five styles I recommend.
As someone who openly admits to being a denim fanatic, I readily acknowledge how challenging it can be to shop for jeans. Once I discover a style that fits well, I tend to purchase the same pair in various washes to avoid the hassle of starting the search again. That was until last year, when I stepped outside my comfort zone of straight-leg jeans and tried on a pair of barrel-leg jeans from Citizens of Humanity. I was immediately won over.
The barrel-leg jean features a relaxed fit with a snug waist that flows into a voluminous leg, tapering at the ankle, and can vary in the degree of volume. Typically available in mid or high-waisted options, it is sometimes called a horseshoe or balloon-leg style. With my petite frame, finding a loose-fitting pair that doesn’t overwhelm me or make it look like I've borrowed from my dad's closet is tough. However, the more structured design of the barrel-leg style has quickly turned into my favorite.
Baggier jeans often hide shoes beneath excessive fabric, but the tapered ankle of barrel jeans makes it easy to pair them with a variety of shoe styles, regardless of how roomy the leg is. To inspire myself (and persuade myself to buy another pair), I’ve put together five spring shoe options that pair well with barrel-leg jeans. Keep scrolling to discover these and to find some of the best barrel-leg jeans available now.
The Best Spring Shoes to Pair with Barrel-Leg Jeans:
1. Heeled Thong Sandals
Style Notes: Heeled thong sandals possess an innate chicness. They are my preferred heel choice when I want to elevate my outfit without it feeling overly formal. With the warmer weather approaching, it’s time to schedule a pedicure and invest in a pair.
Shop the Trend:
- ZARA: Satin Kitten Heel Sandals – The satin material adds a touch of elegance.
- Dolce Vita: Brevel Suede Heeled Sandals – Tan suede looks particularly stylish on a sunny spring day.
- GIANVITO ROSSI: Calypso 80 Suede-Trimmed Raffia Sandals – This raffia design excites me for summer.
- Gucci: Women's Vittoria Thong – Brighten your look with colorful accessories.
- Toteme: Croco-Embossed Heeled Flip Flops – Toteme consistently nails their accessory designs.
2. Bright Suede Trainers
Style Notes: As someone who usually prefers neutral tones, anything too vibrant generally makes me cringe. However, after seeing how Marianne styled her green trainers, I've changed my mind and am trying to resist the urge to buy a pair myself. They can transform a look and add a burst of joy to any outfit.
Shop the Trend:
- Adidas: Handball Spezial Sneakers – Burgundy is an incredibly versatile color.
- COS: Minimal Leather Trainers – These trainers were a hit when they first launched.
- ALOHAS: Tb.490 Rife Forest Green Leather Sneakers – The deep forest green is elegant.
- adidas Originals: Gazelle Indoor Trainers in Red and Pink – Adidas is known for their strikingly colored trainers.
3. Ballet Flats
Style Notes: Ballet flats are a clear addition to any spring shoe selection. With options ranging from classic leather to mesh, cut-out, suede, and embellished styles, their versatility is impressive, solidifying their place in capsule wardrobes rather than being deemed a fleeting trend.
Shop the Trend:
- Whistles: Plum Whistles X Essen Ballet Flat – A part of Whistles’ collaboration with luxury shoe brand Essen, featuring chic ruched detailing.
- LE MONDE BERYL: Stella Zebra-Print Calf Hair Mary Jane Ballet Flats – This animal print from Le Monde Beryl has captured my attention.
- Dear Frances: Balla Mesh in White – Available in a remarkable 12 different colors.
- PROENZA SCHOULER: Tee Perforated Leather Ballet Flats.
4. Flip-Flops
Style Notes: There’s something special about wearing jeans with flip-flops that I absolutely adore. It signifies that summer is finally approaching. I tend to wear this combination throughout spring until it's warm enough to switch to skirts. It’s a comfortable duo that feels nostalgically chic, proving that simple pairings can create a stylish, effortless look.
Shop the Trend:
- The Row: Dune Classic Ginza Sandal – One of The Row's bestsellers.
- Ancient Greek Sandals: Saionara Stitch in Black – I’m a fan of the contrasting stitch detail.
- Mint Velvet: Lula Red Suede Flip Flop Sandals – Take inspiration from Monikh and add a vibrant pop of red.
- Toteme: Croco-Embossed Flip Flops in Off-White – I love pairing white flip-flops with light blue jeans.
5. Pointed Slingback Kitten Heels
Style Notes: Possibly the most sophisticated option, pointed slingbacks are an excellent way
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Unsure what shoes to pair with barrel jeans this spring? Here are five styles I recommend.
Ranging from traditional flip-flops to stylish, pointed slingback kitten heels, these are the spring footwear trends that pair well with barrel-leg jeans.