'These "controversial" jeans are here to stay. I just bought this $30 pair in two colours.'

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This time last year, we were introduced to a directional and rather divisive new denim trend: the Barrel Leg jean.

And oh, how we laughed.

Because the earliest versions of the barrel leg felt clownish. Like fashion was once again prescribing us a trend that no one wanted to wear.

Also known as a 'horseshoe' jean, the cut was characterised by a high waist and exaggerated wide leg that tapered at the ankle, giving a ballooning effect.

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But barrel leg jeans are proof that sometimes it just takes a little while for a trend to land.

Eventually, the high street took notice, denim brands jumped on board, and little by little, we started to see the controversial style enter the fashion mainstream.

Thankfully, the cut improved — the "barrel" bit became less cartoonish and more refined.

The silhouette started to look like something lots of us could actually wear; like a straight-leg jean that factors in your curves.

Twelve months on, barrel leg jeans are everywhere. And they're showing no signs of slowing down.

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I truly can't imagine getting dressed without mine. They're so versatile, and I love how the silhouette elevates my everyday outfits without me having to do much thinking.

I simply pair them with a knit or tee and a cropped jacket and I'm good to go. I also find they're much easier to team with shoes than other wide-leg styles — the tapered ankle works with sneakers, flats or heels.

After trialling and testing lots of pairs, I can honestly say that my favourite barrel leg jeans are this $30 Big W option.

I first wrote about them back in February, when Mamamia's Leigh Campbell and I showed up to work wearing the same pale blue pair. The brand has since released new colourways and a cropped version (I just bought the cream and I'm excited to break them out for spring.)

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If you're still relatively new to the trend or you're keen to add to your collection, scroll down for five of the best barrel leg jeans under $150.

Big W Women's Cropped Barrel Jeans, $30.

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Dazie Too Cool Soft Barrel Wide Leg Jeans, now $40.

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Just Jeans Curve Originals Darted Barrel Leg Jean, $109.95.

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MNG High Rise Balloon Jeans, $79.95.

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Glassons Buckle Detail Barrel Leg Jean, $79.99.

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City Chic Harley Fit Bea Barrel Jean, $119.95.

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Feather + Noise Lola Barrel Jean, $89.95.

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Feature image: Instagram/@_tamaradavis_; @emeliamorrisstylist; @watthebrand