Barrel-Leg Denim: From Alaïa's Fall 2023 Runway to a Wardrobe Staple
Since Pieter Mulier introduced barrel-leg denim, also referred to as horseshoe or balloon-leg denim, during Alaïa's fall 2023 runway show, this style has surged in popularity. Characterized by a hip-hitting cut that tapers at the ankle, its roots lie in workwear designed for ease of movement. Vogue explored several styles, including B Sides' Slim Lasso High-Rise Barrel Leg Jeans, Kallmeyer's Callum Barrel-Leg Jeans, Khaite's Karo Denim, Róhe's Berber Barrel-Leg Denim, Agolde's Luna Denim, Levi's Drop Barrel jeans, Mother's Half Pipe Denim, and COS's Bay Barrel Leg jeans. For those who prefer a relaxed fit, DL1961's Taylor Ultra Rise High Rise Denim is an excellent option for wide-leg enthusiasts.
Key facts
- Barrel-leg denim is also known as horseshoe or balloon-leg denim
- Pieter Mulier showed the silhouette on Alaïa's fall 2023 runway
- The shape originated in workwear for freedom of movement
- B Sides' Slim Lasso High-Rise Barrel Leg Jeans come in rigid denim and multiple washes
- Kallmeyer's Callum Barrel-Leg Jeans were tried at the brand's Lower East Side flagship
- Khaite's Karo Denim has a 32-inch inseam and cuffed hem
- Levi's Drop Barrel jeans belong to the Blue Tab collection and use Japanese denim
- COS's Bay Barrel Leg jeans are available in six washes
Entities
Artists
Institutions
- Alaïa
- Vogue
- B Sides
- Kallmeyer
- Khaite
- Róhe
- Agolde
- Levi's
- Mother
- COS
- DL1961
- Citizens of Humanity
- Loewe
- Christopher Esber
- Proenza Schouler
Locations
- Lower East Side
- New York
- United States
Sources
- Vogue Arts —
- Vogue Arts —