From horseshoes to barrel legs, unconventional denim silhouettes continue to dominate the fashion landscape.
But designing these avant-garde shapes can be more challenging than your average baggy jeans.
Whether you’re embracing the horseshoe trend or opting for a more classic cut, achieving an effortless, effortless look takes a certain amount of finesse.
We asked fashion experts for advice on mastering the art of baggy jeans, no matter your age.
Adding volume to baggy jeans is the trickiest part. Amanda Weekley OBE, fashion designer and podcaster, says: “If your jeans are exaggerated, keep the top polished. A well-fitting tee, a nice knit or an embroidered jacket will work beautifully.
“Conversely, if you like a big top, choose a bustier top to define your waist. And always consider your outerwear – cropped or cropped jackets give you more definition, while floor-length jackets create a dramatic, elongated silhouette.”
If you want to pair your favorite baggy tee with baggy jeans, the French Vine is your secret weapon.
Laura Watson, creative director of Seasalt Cornwall, says: “If you love loose tops, just tuck the front into the belt and it creates shape without sacrificing comfort.
Mango Zlata turtleneck sweater, £45.99 (was £79.99), John Lewis & partners
M&S flared jeans, £35
What shoes should I wear?
When it comes to casual, baggy denim, get the shoes wrong and your look will fall apart.
“A pointy pump or heeled boot will instantly dress up baggy jeans,” says Wakeley. “For something more casual, go with ballet flats or a luxe loafer.”
According to Watson, a pair of flared jeans is a little more comfortable and happens to be pants, “because it’s tapered at the ankle, they work with Chelsea boots for a surprisingly polished look.
“In the summer, ballet flats or open-toed mules are great.”
Depending on the look you’re going for, “a pointed shoe elongates the leg, while ankle boots balance out the volume,” says personal stylist and celebrity consultant Oriona Robb.
If you’re going for a more casual look, Rob suggests choosing a chunky trainer instead of a slim fit to add height.
Schuh Brynn kitten heel boots, £23.99 (was £40)
adidas SL 72 OG shoes, £90
How to style if you are petite
Any kind of baggy clothes can make you feel overwhelmed. And if you’re a petite fan, it can make getting close to baggy jeans rather tedious.
“Proportion is everything,” Weekley says. “A high waist is your best friend [if you’re petite] Because it lifts the legs instantly.
“A cropped length or rolled hem will also keep your frame from overwhelming you.”
If you’re going for the petite side, “a heeled boot or a sleek pointy pump adds height and keeps the fit in the case of baggy jeans,” says Holly Watkins, founder of vintage boutique One Scoop Store.
H&M regular jeans, £37.99
How to style the new trends: from horseshoes to barrel jeans
While denim trends come and go, horseshoe and barrel jeans are sure to be timeless.
“They have this sculptural quality that’s both modern and unique, which when done right is absolutely flattering,” Weekley says.
His point about avant-garde silhouettes is to focus on proportions.
“Balance the volume with a sharp-stitched blazer or a second-skin cashmere knit,” she says. “A great belt helps define the waist and pulls the whole look together.”
“Appropriate [of horseshoe jeans] “It’s amazing because of the way the seams curve inward,” Watson says. They work for everyone.”
The important thing to remember about flip flop jeans is to keep your top or outer construction to create contrast and a balanced fit.
Rob suggests a structured wool coat or cropped jacket.
Arket brushed wool jacket, £100 (was £169)
Style mistakes to avoid
In many ways, baggy jeans are easy to wear, but that also means they’re easy to get wrong.
“Drowning in fabric is the number one mistake,” warns Wakeley. “Buggy should look intentional, not accidental.”
Watson agrees, noting, “A big sweater over baggy jeans? It can swallow you whole. If you’re not into tucking, add a belt—it defines your shape without looking forced.”
Making sure you find the right length for your wide leg jeans is essential. Rob’s pet peeve is pools of denim at the ankles. She recommends nailing the length of the nail—then it’s easier to style it however you like.
The secret to modeling them through the ages
While skinny jeans have had a bit of a renaissance, it’s clear that baggy jeans aren’t going anywhere. And the secret to making them work is about confidence.
As the Weekly says, “If you feel good, you look good.”
The biggest fashion lie is that some trends expire after the age of 30. “Forget this nonsense,” Weekly says. Jane does not age. It’s all about staying true to your style DNA.
The weekly formula is simple. “If you want to go all out, go for contrast – oversized blazers, crop tops, chunky trousers. If you want to go for a chic look, look for a silk shirt, a crisp bodysuit or a luxe knit with a sharp shoulder jacket.”
