Helen Skelton uses these key pieces to make her barrel-leg jeans work for unpredictable spring weather
Built around trending jeans and easy layering pieces, this everyday look feels practical and put-together
Dressing for the unpredictable weather at the moment is a challenge. But Helen Skelton has the antidote. Posting on Instagram, the presenter revealed a carousel of spring outfit ideas, but there was one look in particular that caught our eye.
Like us, Helen is not quite ready to break out her maxi dresses and sandals, and the first shot in her stream of spring styles featured a smart casual outfit idea that is worth wearing on repeat. The high-waisted, barrel-legged jeans featured an ankle-skimming hemline that made them the perfect partner to brown Chelsea boots.
Recreate Helen's Go-To Spring Look
If you're looking for layering pieces or the best spring jackets to wear with jeans, Helen's Varley piece is a great investment. Lightweight and effortless, it's cut to an oversized, blouson shape that can be dressed up or down.
These barrel leg jeans are available in extra-short to long leg lengths, and in sizes 6 to 24. Shoppers say they are 'really comfortable and stylish.' The voluminous shape makes for a great way to update denim for spring.
While Helen's M&S barn jacket is sold out, you can get a similar look with a neutral utility jacket like this one. The patch pockets and neat collar offer a clean structure for elevated everyday wear.
These barrel leg jeans are a little less voluminous than other styles we've seen on the high street, making them a great choice if you're daunted by the statement shape and want something more subtle.
The cut of this Massimo Dutti jacket makes it a great alternative to Helen's Varley piece, thanks to its trending bomber silhouette and warm tone. Crafted in a linen blend, this jacket has good breathability for warmer weather.
These suede boots are a staple style that can be worn on repeat. The chunky sole makes them a stylish and practical pair of shoes to wear in colder weather, too. The lighter colourway adds brightness to any denim outfit.
When it comes to denim trends for 2026, barrel-leg jeans, like the pair Helen is seen wearing, remain one of the key silhouettes of the season. The surprisingly flattering shape is ideal for highlighting curves, and a darker wash keeps your denim looking polished.
Adding warm neutral layers gave Helen's look an elevated, understated feel, and even though the spring/summer fashion colour trends for 2026 are bright and bold, neutrals are timeless and are a great option for capsule wardrobe heroes.
A cohesive ensemble, the brown of Helen's jacket worked beautifully with her neutral boots, while the worn orange hue of the zip-up felt rusty enough to complement the rest of the neutral palette. Slipping a white shirt underneath the two jackets, this spring capsule wardrobe staple once again shows why it is such a lynchpin piece, wearable for a host of smart and casual moments and adding polish to any look.
