How To Style Cargo Pants for a Fashion-Forward Look

how to style cargo pants

Fashion is an ever-evolving form of self-expression. But even with the passage of time, cargo pants have remained a staple in the fashion world.

Cargo pants are a flexible and practical piece of apparel that has been around for many years. Initially designed for military personnel, now they’re a symbol of style. Moreover, the sturdy fabric and pockets make them suitable for outdoor activities and adventures. And they can also be dressed up or down depending on the event. 

Whether you’re a fashion-forward individual or someone who values comfort and practicality, cargo pants are a must-have addition to your wardrobe. Hence, this article will explore how to style cargo pants for a fashion-forward look. 

Effortless Style with Cargo Pants

Cargo pants have been popular fashion apparel for many years and remain trendy today. Many high-end designers have revived cargo pants and several celebrities have worn them. Cargo pants are flexible and realistic, making them a wonderful addition to any wardrobe. They are available in various shades and styles, so you can find a pair that fits your style.

Different Cargo Pants Outfit Ideas

One of the best things about cargo pants is that they can be worn in many ways. They can be dressed with blazers, heels, and even a T-shirt and shoes. Here are some unique cargo pants outfit ideas to inspire you:

1. Casual Look

Boy in Casual look with t-shirt and cargo pants
Credit: juicestore on Instagram

Pair your cargo pants with a simple t-shirt and sneakers for a laid-back look. This is a great outfit for running errands or hanging out with friends. You can also add a denim jacket or a hoodie during colder seasons.

2. Dressy Look

Woman in black blazer  and cargo pants
Credit: seoul.made on Instagram

Pair your cargo pants with a blazer and shoes to make them look classy. And for women, you can wear a nice pair of heels to compliment your outfit. This outfit idea is fabulous for a night out or an informal corporate occasion. You can also add a watch or ring to accessorize.

3. Athleisure Look

woman in crop top and cargo pants
Credit: britney_antoniewicz on Instagram

Pair your cargo pants with a crop top and shoes for an athleisure appearance. This is the perfect outfit when going to the gym or running errands. You can also wear a baseball cap or a fanny pack for additional style.

4. Edgy Street Style

Man in black graphic t-shirt  and cargo pants
Credit: haikettua_atl on Instagram

Cargo pants are a fabulous option for creating a daring street-style look because they are inherently edgy. Choose a pair of cargo pants with a unique pattern or extras like pockets or zippers. Wear them with a band tee or a graphic t-shirt for an added dose of attitude.

The outfit can be finished with thick combat boots or high-top sneakers, and statement jewelry or a studded belt can be worn as accessories. This outfit is ideal for showing off your rebellious side at music festivals, concerts, or any other occasion. 

How to Make Cargo Pants Look Dressy

Cargo pants can be dressed up for an evening out or an informal business meeting. Here are some suggestions to make cargo pants look dressy:

1. Choose the Right Accessories

Girl wearing baseball cap  and cargo pants
Credit: shivani.boruah on Instagram

Choose add-ons that complement your cargo pants, which include a baseball cap or a fanny pack. These add-ons will supply your outfit with a casual look and feel.

2. Pair with a Simple Top

Girl wearing black tank top  and cargo pants
Credit: bonkers.corner on Instagram

Pair your cargo pants with a light top, such as a t-shirt or tank top. This will make your outfit look casual and comfortable.

3. Wear Sneakers

man wearing green Sneakers  and black  cargo pants
Credit: clout.manila on Instagram

Wear sneakers with your cargo pants for a relaxed appearance. Choose a couple of shoes that complement the coloration of your cargo pants.

How to Style Cargo Pants Outfits

Are cargo pants in style? Of course, they are! Here are some tips on how to style your cargo pants with other clothes:

1. Add a Belt

woman wearing belt with cargo pants
Credit: sheinofficial on Instagram

Add a belt to cinch your waist when wearing your cargo pants and create a lean appearance. It also makes you look more formal if you wear a polo T-shirt. 

2. Wear Statement Jewelry

woman wearing Statement Jewelry with cargo pants
Credit: gotthelookofficial on Instagram

For women, you can wear jewelry with a corpulent necklace or rings to add that “it” factor to your outfit. This can definitely make you stand out in a crowded room. 

3. Add a Scarf

woman wearing Scarf with cargo pants
Credit: amiragaberag on Instagram

You can add a scarf to your cargo pants outfit during warm temperatures. It can also act as a statement piece. 

4. Hats

Woman wearing black hat with cargo pants
Credit: shopcopper on Instagram

You can pair cargo pants with different hats, depending on your style and the occasion. You can amp up the style of your outfit by donning a trendy baseball cap or even a classic fedora.

5. Shoes

woman wearing ankle boots with cargo pants
Credit: styledbyflorencia on Instagram

Your cargo pants outfit might be significantly impacted by the shoes you choose. Sneakers or ankle boots work well for a casual look. Choose loafers or oxford shoes for a more polished look. For warmer weather, sandals can also be a great option.

6. Watches

Man pairing watches with cargo pants
Credit: gentlemenfashion_ on Instagram

A stylish watch is both a valuable and fashionable item. A watch can give a touch of sophistication to your cargo pants outfit, regardless of whether you prefer a classic leather or trendy metal strap.

Cargo Pants Outfit Inspiration from Fashion Bloggers

Fashion bloggers are an exquisite source of inspiration for cargo pants and clothes. Here are some cargo pants trends from fashion bloggers:

Effortlessly Elegant

blonde girl wearing sleek top and cargo pants
Credit: trendy__dressup on Instagram

Cargo pants can be dressed for a sophisticated and elegant appearance. Go for high-waisted cargo pants in an impartial shade and pair them with a sleek top. 

Tuck the shirt into the pants and add a trendy belt to cinch your waist. Complete the ensemble with shoes (or heels) for a polished, well-positioned outfit. It’s ideal for an evening out or a special event.

Workwear Glam

Man wearing blue button-down shirt and cargo pants
Credit: bluebuttonshop on Instagram

Who said cargo pants can not be worn to the workplace? Proper styling will let you sync cargo pants into your workwear wardrobe and look professional. Opt for a tailor-made pair of cargo pants and pair them with a clean button-down shirt. Add a blazer for a sophisticated touch, and finish the look with traditional pumps or loafers. This outfit is a tremendous attire for informal office spaces and will make you stand out as a fashion expert.

Street Style Vibes

woman wearing graphic t-shirt and cargo pants
Credit: prettyvixenbtq on Instagram

Fashion bloggers know how to pull off the edgy look of cargo pants, which are synonymous with street style. Wear your cargo pants with a band hoodie or a graphic t-shirt for an outfit with street-style influences. Throw a leather or denim jacket on top and a pair of clunky boots or sneakers for an urban and stylish look. Accessorize with a crossbody bag and sunglasses to complete the edgy vibes.

Cargo Pants for Different Body Types

Cargo pants are available in diverse styles and designs, making it easy to find a pair that fits your body shape. Let’s explore some options for different body types:

1. Hourglass Figure

If you’ve got an hourglass figure with a well-defined waist, you can emphasize your curves by opting for high-waisted cargo pants. These pants will accentuate your slim waist and accentuate your figure. Look for styles with a moderate flare or wide-leg design to balance out your hips and thighs. Pair them with a fitted upper ensemble to highlight your torso and create a flattering silhouette.

2. Pear-shaped Body

For those with a pear-shaped body, cargo pants can give you a slimming effect. They help create a balanced look by adjusting your body proportions. Wear darker shades for the bottoms and pair them with a bright or patterned top. Cargo pants with pockets around the thighs can also help divert attention away from your hips.

3. Athletic Build

If you have an athletic build with broad shoulders and a less-defined waist, cargo pants with a tapered or narrow bottom can compliment your body and look. Choose pants with a mid-rise waistline to create a fitting appearance. Look for designs with detailing like zippers or pockets, to draw attention to your frame. Avoid cargo pants that look washed out as they could make you appear boxy.

4. Apple-shaped Body

For those with an apple-shaped frame and a fuller mid-section, cargo pants with a mid-rise or high-upward thrust waistline are great choices. They help to camouflage the tummy area and create a smoother silhouette. Opt for styles with bootcut bottoms to balance your proportions. Choose cargo pants in darker shades to create a slimming effect.

5. Tall and Slender

For people who are tall and skinny, you can experiment with cargo pants with long bottoms. Cropped cargo pants can add a trendy touch to your outfit, while full-length pants can provide an elongating effect. Opt for designs with a comfortable shape and keep away from pants that are too tight or saggy. Cargo pants with lots of vertical detailing can also create the illusion of a more contoured form factor.

6. Petite Frame

Choosing cargo pants that do not exaggerate your proportions is essential for people with petite bodies. Opt for slim-fit or thin cargo pants that taper on the ankle to create a sleek and elongated look. Avoid extensive-leg or disheveled styles, as they could make you appear shorter. Pick Cargo pants with smaller pocket sizes that can help you keep a balanced and proportionate appearance.

Conclusion

You should have a pretty solid idea about how to style cargo pants for a fashion-forward look. 

These pants are versatile and trendy clothing items that can be dressed in numerous ways for various occasions. They are in style almost every season and can be worn for any event. 

Follow the pointers in this post for styling cargo pants and give them your own spin for a more personalized look. 

Remember, fashion is expressing yourself and feeling comfortable in what you wear. Experiment with different outfit combos and find the look that most resonate with you. With cargo pants as your style staple, you can turn heads whenever you run errands or go out.

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