As a major denim geek, I have been so excited to see cuts of jeans from decades past coming back into style! I love seeing a fresh, modern spin on things from the past.
Skinny jeans were so popular for so many years, so I am excited to see other styles like straight leg jeans and mom jeans finding their way into the mix and becoming people’s “go-to’s” in their wardrobes.
Jeans are the most-worn item in my closet and I love experimenting with different styles and washes! My most recent pair of jeans that I added to my wardrobe are Agolde Balloon Ultra High Rise Taper jeans. They are an updated version of the 1980s style balloon jeans!
The outseam is curved so the jeans taper at the ankle. The inseam is 26.5″ and on me (I am 5’7″) they hit above my ankles and they feel like the perfect length for this style of jeans.
The rise is ultra high at 12.5″ and they have a zip-fly closure. I own multiple pairs of jeans and shorts from Agolde and they all have button-fly closures, so it is something to note as a departure from Agolde’s norm.
The material is 100% organic cotton so they are rigid (no stretch) but still soft and comfortable. I got the light wash which is called revival. They also come in a gray, and in a black wash. I usually buy all of my jeans to be really fitted— especially 100% cotton jeans as they relax and form to your shape. However, I decided to aim for this pair to be a bit loose and I sized up one size. They are loose on my waist and definitely fit big, so I would say these run true to size to slightly large. I think my true size would have still had a loose fit but with a more fitted waist.
If you like this cut of denim but you are looking for a more affordable version, here are some other brands offering balloon jeans: Madewell, Levi’s, Mango. (I have not tried any of these on.)
If you are drawn to the balloon style but you would prefer a less exaggerated curve on the outseam, I recommend checking out barrel jeans like these, these, and these. (I have not tried any of these on.)
Now on to the outfits!
Outfit #1: Balloon Jeans + Turtleneck + Sneakers
Turtleneck | Jeans | Sneakers (I sized up 1/2 size)
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This outfit has easy, comfy, mom vibes. Pairing these jeans with an understated, fitted turtleneck allows the jeans to be the focal point of the outfit. Because the jeans have an interesting sillohuette, this look is simple but definitely not boring. The sneakers round out this casual outfit that feels like it was made for the weekend.
Outfit #2: Balloon Jeans + Floral Blouse + Military Jacket + Woven Mules
Jacket (mine is from a previous season) | Blouse | Earrings | Jeans | Mules (I sized up one whole size but 1/2 would probably be enough)
I love the muted tones in this outfit— green, cream, and brown with light wash denim. The small, neutral floral print and woven leather mules add subtle but lovely details to this look. This outfit will keep you warm but remind you that spring is right around the corner.
Outfit #3: Balloon Jeans + Crewneck Sweater + Lug Boots
Sweater (old from Old Navy – similar) | Jeans | Boots (sold out from H&M – similar, similar)
This is the best way to style these jeans to stay warm in the winter. Any boots that are fitted at the ankle will work with this cut of jeans, and I chose these taupe lug boots. I love the color of this sweater and it is super cozy and warm.
Outfit #4: Balloon Jeans + Blazer + Belt + Flats
Blazer (I sized down one size – similar, similar, similar) | Tank (old from Target – similar) | Belt (old from Topshop – similar) | Jeans | Flats
Everything in this outfit bends towards dressy, while the jeans are the casual, grounding piece in the center of the outfit. The coordinating dressy black flats and black leather belt elevate the look while the oversized blazer adds a modern touch.
Outfit #5: Balloon Jeans + Crewneck Sweatshirt + Sneakers
Sweatshirt | Jeans | Earrings | Sneakers
This is another laid-back, everyday look. I grabbed my favorite white sneakers that I wear 24/7, and my favorite graphic sweatshirt that I wear weekly. You can’t go wrong when you wear your most favorite things!
Outfit #6: Balloon Jeans + Rib-Knit Cardigan + Mules
Cardigan (I sized down one size) | Jeans | Earrings | Mules
I love, love this last look. The repeated volume of the ballon jeans and balloon sleeves of the cardigan are a fun visual. I love that these mules are neutral but the print adds a bit of whimsey to any outfit!
What are your thoughts on balloon and barrel jeans? If you like them, what is your favorite way to style them? I would love to hear from you in the comments below!
If you want to read more about jeans, you can check out my review of Agolde 90’s Loose Fit jeans, here!
P.S. Here are the table and basket you see in all the photos in this post!
These jeans are so good. Love the outfit ideas too!
Thanks so much! They are definitely a fun silhouette!
Oh wow, these are fun! Been waiting to get your take on them. I love how they are so bold they can BE the outfit or you can pair them with something fun. I’ll be curious how you settle into wearing them over time.
Agreed! They are definitely fun to style. I have been wearing them all day and they are for sure big, which I was going for but that is still outside of my comfort zone and now I am curious what my true size and even a size down would have been like! I wish we had shops, here in Nashville, that carried a lot of Agoldes. So far there are just fun boutiques that carry a few styles.
Hey Michelle! I saw your post on Instagram when I was trying to find pictures & reviews of these jeans – I love your sense of style, and I’m glad to hear you like them!
I’m considering getting a pair of these exact jeans for myself, but I’m 5’2” with “small waist, thunder thighs” proportions. Would you consider these jeans adequately roomy for someone with thick thighs, and do you think I’d have to get the leg opening/inseam tailored?
If you or your commenters would be so generous as to share your thoughts on this, I’d much appreciate it. Thank you! 🙂
Hi! Yes, I would say these jeans are more fitted in the waist and roomy in the legs. The rise is very high as well, so that is something to note. I do think you would have to get the inseam tailored. Since you have a small waist, I would recommend your true size or sizing down one size, depending on how you want them to fit. I sized up and they ended up being really big on my waist and my shape is smaller waist compared to my hips. I think my true size might have still been slightly roomy. I hope that helps!