How to Style Cargo Pants for a Casual Yet Trendy Look? - Cargo pants have expanded considerably from their starting as a military uniform. Generally known for functionality over looks, cargo pants are now a new item for every wardrobe that can manage a casual-looking outfit while still looking stylish and modern. Whether you are looking for a more casual outfit for your weekend or a more urban streetwear outfit, cargo pants can be styled for both. However, like any item that makes a statement, it can be difficult to wear with confidence if not styled completely. Now, let us know how to style cargo pants.
Tips For Styling Cargo Pants for a Casual Yet Trendy Look
Choose Your Fit
The starting point for styling cargo pants is finding the perfect fit. There are different fits available, like slim-fit, tapered, straight-leg, jogger-style, or oversized. Find a cargo pant that suits your style and body shape.
Slim or Tapered Cargos - Good for creating a clean, put-together look. They can be worn like chinos or jeans.
Jogger-Style Cargo Pants - Because these cargo pants usually more relaxed fit and elastic cuffs, they work well for sporty or more streetwear looks.
Baggy or Oversized Cargos - The perfect fit for a grungier or more stylized look, specifically if you are into retro fashions.
Choose Neutral or Earthy Colors
When it comes to cargo pants, they are usually offered in generally neutral or earthy colors like khaki, beige, olive green, and black, which are colors that can be mixed and matched with anything. These colors will also keep the rugged, utilitarian nature of cargo pants while also enabling versatility. For a casual look that is still trendy, wear olive-colored cargo pants with a white or beige oversized t-shirt or black cargo pants with a muted-toned hoodie. Monochrome outfits made of unique shades of beige or gray will also feel sleek and contemporary.
T-Shirts and Basics for Everyday Coolness
There is nothing more easy than wearing your cargo pants with a basic t-shirt. This can be a simple crewneck in a neutral color or even a graphic tee to give your outfit some identity. Tugging your shirt or front-tucking your shirt adds some shape to your look and appears more intentional. For a slightly enhanced casual look, try -
-
Fitted T-shirt, Slim Cargo Pants, White Sneakers
-
Oversized Tee, Jogger Cargos, Chunky Sneakers, or Combat Boots
If the weather calls for it, layer with a flannel or shirt-button.
Throw on a Denim or a Bomber Jacket
Layering is a good way to give dimension and interest to any outfit. A classic denim jacket on top of a simple t-shirt with cargo pants is as cool as it gets and so easy. On cold days, bomber jackets or puffer jackets can also get an edgy feel. Good combinations include -
-
Olive Green Cargo Pants black tee light denim jacket
-
Beige cargos, white hoodie, black bomber jacket
These combinations manage the casual feeling yet represent your knowledge of styling.
Sneakers Are Your New Best Friend
The shoes you wear can make or break your cargo pants' look. Sneakers are the safest and most stylish choice, which is why I think this is your best option. White low-top sneakers on the bottom will contrast nicely, being clean and crisp. Chunkier sneakers or high-top sneakers can add a streetwear style to your outfit. Other good options to consider -
Combat Boots - These can be a great look if you tuck your cargo pants in or if your pants are the jogger style; they will accent the style quite boldly.
Slip-On Sneakers or Vans - Another comfortable choice that can be worn if you want to jump on that relaxed, skater vibe.
Sandals or Slides - If it is hot out, sandals or slides can work for summer’s casual look, specifically with cropped or cuffed cargo pants.
While adding formal options can be acceptable, generally, this will clash with the rugged and functional nature of cargo pants.
Make it Streetwear
Cargo pants are a basic element of street style. For those searching for a fashion-forward outfit, try styling them with oversized hoodies, boxy tees, and branded pieces. Styling Tips -
-
Choose an oversized pair of cargo pants and style them with a logo tee or oversized sweatshirt.
-
Participate in a layering game with beanies, chains, and cross-body bags!
-
Your cargo pants can also feature color, patterns, and prints if that is your vibe.
-
Camo prints and two-tone pants are guaranteed to make your outfit stand out. Layering and accessorizing will round out your outfit for the easy cool style.
Accessorize Wisely
Accessories take an outfit from dull to stand-out stylish. When considering accessories, think about the following -
-
Baseball cap or beanie
-
Minimalist watch and/or chain
-
Canvas belt and/or bucket hat
-
Utility crossbody/bag or a small backpack
Since cargo pants have pocket details, generally, they are enough. Think practical, purposeful accessories. Keep accessories simple.
Go Cropped or Cuffed for a Modern Look
Do you want to be casual yet still have a trendy look? Simply cuff or roll up the hems of your cargo pants or find a cropped pair. You will show off your shoes while including an urban feel to your entire look. This works especially well with a high-top sneaker or a pair of boots. Moreover, a pair of cropped cargos with a tucked-in tee can make more of a crisp profile when you want to look casual but still put-together.
Layer with Hoodies or Sweatshirts
For cool days or a casual look, toss on a hoodie or sweatshirt. Good, neutral tones or muted pastels can enhance the look. If you enjoy the streetwear aesthetic, go for an oversized hoodie. However, for a trendier profile, go for fitted sweatshirts. A great combination would be -
Black tapered cargos, menswear-style grey oversized hoodie, casual white sneakers. The combo will look casual, but together, the outfit looks trendy, comfortable, and classic without trying too hard.
Try a Smart-Casual Combo
If you want to dress up your cargo pants ever so slightly, go for a slimmer-fit cargo pant cut and pair it with a polo, turtleneck, or even casual button-down.
Finish the outfit with sneakers or suede loafers, and keep accessories low-key. This is a cool way to mix styles between rugged and polished.
FAQs
Can Cargo Pants be worn in all seasons?
Yes! Cargo pants are very useful. During hot months, try lightweight cotton or linen cargo pants. When it is cooler, thicker fabrics like canvas or twill will do what you need, and it is easy to layer on top, like with a hoodie or jacket.
Cargo pants are for casual men's fashion. What about women's casual fashion?
Yes! Women's cargo pants are also really stylish right now in streetwear and young adult fashion. You can wear them with fitted tanks, crop tops, or even baggy oversized blazers for an attractive, tough girl look.
What kinds of tops can go with cargo pants?
You can wear just about any top with cargo pants, from a basic tee or tank top to a hoodie, sweatshirt, or jacket. The choice of what top you select will create either a casual vibe, sporty vibe, streetwear vibe, or a touch more polished look.
Can you make cargo pants suitable for semi-formal occasions?
While cargo pants are generally casual, slim-fit cargo pants in a darker color can certainly be styled with a crisp shirt and sharp shoes to look smart-casual. Just do not choose oversized or highly detailed options for more formal events.
