If you’re looking for a comfortable yet stylish outfit, consider pairing cargo pants with a casual jacket and T-shirt. This combination can work for various occasions and provides a versatile look. If you want to keep it simple, stick to neutral tones and classic tailoring fabrics.
They’re Perfect for the Outdoors
Cargo pants for men are the offspring of two of fashion’s enduring couples: practicality and good taste. They started in the military; after all, soldiers needed a place to stash everything from maps and bandages to snacks and combat boots.
Since then, they’ve been embraced by the outdoor gear community (think rugged, double-reinforced gussets and a forgiving drawstring at the waist) and fashion influencers alike, bringing practical style to casual wardrobes. The relaxed fit, abundance of pockets, and robust materials that can endure rigorous use make them an ideal choice for day-to-day usage.
You can dress them up with a fitted shirt or tee, a denim jacket, and sneakers.
And for an even more casual vibe, you can’t go wrong with a pair of cargo sweatpants. Their sweatpants model has a slouchy feel and features a pair of traditional cargo pockets, but it also has a gusset and double knees for added strength. Add a pair of gray joggers to the mix, and you’ve got a laid-back ensemble that can take you from your daily routine to a weekend hike without missing a beat.
They’re Perfect for the Office
Cargo pants first made their name as workwear, and that’s where they excel. They have a relaxed fit with plenty of pockets, and the design allows them to accommodate various types of footwear, from boots to sneakers. They’re a favorite among would-be doomsday preppers and detail-obsessed gearheads, but you don’t have to be in the military or an outdoor enthusiast to wear them.
In the office, cargo pants will make the ideal workplace attire, depending on your company’s dress code. Unlike older styles with a slouchy, workwear feel, today’s cropped and tapered cargo pants are often made in fluid fabrics like cotton spandex for a comfortable and flattering look. Look for options from men’s workwear brands that offer a slim shape with a slight taper and two traditional cargo pockets.
While cargo pants have a reputation for being slouchy and casual, they’re incredibly versatile and can be dressed up or down as needed. You can pair men’s cargo pants with a crisp blazer and sneakers for a smart casual outfit for running errands or drinks after work. If your workplace permits, opt for slim or relaxed-fit cargo pants in dark colors like black or navy paired with a button-down shirt and blazer for a stylish business casual look.
They’re Perfect for the Party
Consider wearing cargo pants to appear stylish yet casual and well-dressed. These adaptable pants are available in various hues and can be worn with various outfits to create a distinctive style. They can be worn with a pair of sneakers and a t-shirt to create a casual outfit, or they can be worn with a jacket and a hoodie for a more formal look.
Initially intended for everyday use, these pants gained popularity among those who wanted to be able to carry a lot of stuff. Over the years, they have become more fashion-forward and have evolved to meet the needs of modern men. They have also proved that functionality need not imply a lack of style, and they have become a great example of how form and function coexist.
If you’re wondering how to wear cargo pants without looking like you’re going to a Y2K-themed party, the answer is simple: wear them with a fitted tee and a denim jacket. It will help you keep your look more stylish and professional and make your clothes manageable. Wearing them with a striped T-shirt will give your outfit more individuality.
They’re Perfect for the Day-to-Day
Once a staple of army surplus clothing, men’s cargo pants have found a home in casual wear thanks to their rugged look and valuable pockets. The latest incarnations of this style are reworking military-inspired features, introducing elements like zippered side pockets and jetted front pockets to add a touch of modernity. Some cargo pants also come in various fits, from slim to baggy so that you can find the perfect fit for your lifestyle.
Opt for a pair of slim-fit cargo pants in a dapper shade such as charcoal or navy for the ultimate in smart-casual styling. Team them with a fitted tee and a utilitarian-inspired overshirt for a sophisticated yet relaxed look. Finish the outfit with Derby shoes for an ideal look, from weekend adventures to casual catch-ups with friends.
If you need more time to dive headfirst into the cargo pant trend, consider dipping your toe in with a pair of khaki cargo pants. These stylish staples offer plenty of valuable pockets in a loose, straight fit perfectly suited to everyday wear. They’re made with high-quality cotton for comfort and durability, while the khaki color ensures they blend in seamlessly with most casual wardrobes. Check out this pair of parachute-style cargo pants if you want something more rugged. This ’90s throwback style is updated with contemporary tailoring, including elongated legs that are cut in a straight fit to avoid the baggy appearance of some other cargo styles.