Cargo Pants Trend: Three Rules To Help Find The Best Pair | Cuddlepill (2024)

Cargo Pants: N.21 via Farfetch | Blazer: Vintage, similar here|White Tee: J. Crew| Earrings: Vintage, similar here|Belt: Vintage, similar here|Boots: IRO, similar here|Bag:Zadig & Voltaire

I AM SO PUMPED ABOUT THIS POST! For one, I’m really into the cargo pants trend at the moment. Secondly, I had the opportunity to partner with Farfetch on their Cargo Pants Style Guide, which was basically a dream come true because I stalk Farfetch on a regular basis for inspiration and…clearance items 😉 (my dress for my cousin’s wedding was from there!).

Now, let’s talk cargo pants. This trend was suspect to me early on, mainly because I have PTSD from the late 90s / early 00s where the only people I saw wearing cargo pants were either suburban dads (mine included) or the American Eagle loyalists. Thankfully, the way I envisioned this trend coming to fruition couldn’t have been further from reality.

The cargo pants trend has made it’s way into 2019 in the freshest way possible. It’s edgy, chic, and bad ass. They’ve shown up in so many different ways for spring, but I have a few rules I stick with when shopping for this trend that will guarantee the fit is flattering and easy to style.

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  • Cargo Pants Trend: Three Rules To Help Find The Best Pair | Cuddlepill (2)

LOOK FOR A HIGH WAIST.Nothing will look more dated than a low rise cargo pant. DON’T DO IT!! Always aim for at minimum a mid rise, but ideally a high rise. The low rise pants are unflattering, unfashionable, and much harder to wear. There’s no reason to go with a low rise! The high rise makes the cargo pant look like a statement piece vs. a standard utility pant.

  • Cargo Pants Trend: Three Rules To Help Find The Best Pair | Cuddlepill (3)
  • Cargo Pants Trend: Three Rules To Help Find The Best Pair | Cuddlepill (4)

avoid skinnys.Another telltale sign that you’re not up to speed on how to wear cargos in 2019! Avoid the skinny cuts, and focus on pants with a either a baggier fit or a wide cut bottom. This is where it gets tricky, because the ideal pant is snug in all the right places while being baggy in others. For my body type, I prefer snug at the waist and lower back area and loose around the thighs but not TOO loose where I look like I’m swimming in them. If you select a wide leg pant, make sure they’re snug in the waist & butt area and get looser as they go down the leg.

  • Cargo Pants Trend: Three Rules To Help Find The Best Pair | Cuddlepill (5)
  • Cargo Pants Trend: Three Rules To Help Find The Best Pair | Cuddlepill (6)

The thicker, the better.I’m talking material here :)! Cargo pants should be somewhat stiff & structured, so it’s important to pay close attention to the composition of the fabric to make sure that’s what you’re getting. It’s good to avoid the flowy, softer fabrics, because that will give you a completely different cargo look…one that’s not “on-trend”. I prefer cargo pants that are a thick cotton material, because I know they’ll keep their shape and be as dramatic as possible!

  • Cargo Pants Trend: Three Rules To Help Find The Best Pair | Cuddlepill (7)
  • Cargo Pants Trend: Three Rules To Help Find The Best Pair | Cuddlepill (8)
Cargo Pants Trend: Three Rules To Help Find The Best Pair | Cuddlepill (2024)

FAQs

Why are cargo pants trending? ›

In 2023, cargo pants have become extremely popular due to their practical and comfortable design. With numerous pockets and compartments, these pants are perfect for people who like to carry multiple items with them while on the move.

When were cargo pants a trend? ›

Though they cycle up and down in popularity (big in the 1990s and noughties, less ubiquitous in the 2010s), they never disappear entirely.

What makes cargo pants cargo pants? ›

Cargo pants are made of hard wearing fabric and ruggedly stitched. Increasingly they are made of quick-drying synthetic or cotton-synthetic blends, and often feature oversized belt loops to accommodate wide webbing belts.

What are good cargo pants made of? ›

Cargo pants fabric is traditionally sturdy cotton or cotton-wool blend that can withstand rigorous wear and harsh elements. The most recognizable detail on cargo pants is the signature square patch pocket attached to one or both outer legs between the hip and knee.

How do you pair pants? ›

If you are attending a formal event, team your pants with a well-fitted checkered shirt, or opt for a nice polo tee for a more semi-casual look. Don't forget a sharp pair of shoes: monk straps, chukkas, or a pair of elevated leather sneakers tie your whole outfit together.

How to make cargo pants more formal? ›

Cargo pants have a wide waistband that sits higher on the waist, so you can use a belt to cinch the pants in and make them appear more fitted. For a more formal look, go for a leather belt and pair your pants with a button-up shirt or a sweater.

Are cargo pants useful? ›

Fully Functionable: Cargo trousers are a practical choice for workwear, made from durable materials which are more resistant to wear & tear in a variety of settings including mechanics, landscaping and construction, where reflective cargo pants aren't uncommon.

Are cargo pants smart? ›

Yes, cargo pants are considered smart casual, meaning they are not too formal and should not be worn for a particular situation, place, or social occasion.

Should cargo pants be tight or baggy? ›

In conclusion, the choice between baggy and slim fit cargo pants ultimately depends on personal style, comfort, and the desired aesthetic. Baggy cargo pants offer a more casual and relaxed look, while slim fit cargo pants provide a more streamlined and modern appearance.

How to style with cargo pants? ›

Put on a simple graphic t-shirt, light sweater, or button-down shirt with your cargo pants. To complete a casual, everyday look, add sneakers or casual loafers which would keep you at ease.

Are cargo pants trendy in 2024? ›

Another trend that will sweep in spring is cargo pants, which has managed to stay popular for several seasons now. Fashionable brands like Isabel Marant and MSGM included them in their spring-summer 2024 shows.

Are cargo pants in style for girls? ›

Whether they're the low-rise, baggy cargo pants inspired by the early 2000s or modern cargo pants that vary in fit and fabric, women's cargo pants are a versatile addition to your everyday wardrobe. Explore cargo pants outfit ideas by color and shirt style for different looks.

What body type looks good in cargo pants? ›

Baggy cargo pants can be flattering for individuals with larger frames or those who prefer a looser fit. Slim fit cargo pants are better suited for individuals with a slimmer physique.

How can I make my cargo pants more feminine? ›

Basic t-shirts or tank tops with cargo pants create a fun, casual look that's super comfortable and pairs well with a variety of jackets. Fitted blouses or crop tops show off your waist in both low-rise and high-rise cargo pants. Pair with a bucket hat and oversized shades to add volume to your upper half.

Do cargo pants suit everyone? ›

What body shapes can benefit from cargo pants? Cargo trousers are one of those democratic garments that suit everyone, thanks to the soft lines, the high waist and the side pockets that play a strategic role.

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