How to style cargo pants

Thanks to the comeback of Y2K fashion, there have been endless trends that have been making their way back into our closets; the latest being cargo pants. This trend may be hit or miss depending on your style, but its versatility is a major perk! Let nostalgia officially set in by dressing your vintage cargo pants up or down with fresh and elevated pieces. 

What are cargo pants?

Cargo pants are also referred to as cargo trousers or combat trousers. These pants are comfortable, durable and multipurpose. Cargo pants have pockets on the sides and can have drawstrings to tighten to bottoms. These detail-filled pants are usually a baggy fit and offer freedom of movement making them a comfortable pair of pants to gravitate towards. 

Although Gen Z and Y2K fashion has been seen sporting these iconic pants, they have been around for quite some time. Cargo pants have been worn for nearly a century now. The first time these pants were worn was by soldiers for the British Armed forces during the Second World War, they then made an appearance in the states.

Inspiration for the trend

Cargo pants haven’t always been thought of as being stylish. Y2K has had a positive impact on fashion trends and cargo pants are definitely benefiting from it. The convenient pockets and simple design makes this piece of clothing diverse and open to being reinvented to fit any style. Vintage cargo pants have been an inspiration for many outfits. 

Many celebrities have been seen wearing cargo pants and adding their own personal style to them. Bella Hadid and Hailey Bieber are a few celebrities that have been spotted wearing the trend. 

How to style

Cargo pants are universal and can be dressed up or down to match your style! Here are some ideas on how to style your cargo pants for any occasion.

Heels

Have a fancy event? Or just want to dress up your favorite look? Heels are the perfect way to add some personality to your outfit. Choose a heel that has some texture and fun color to make this outfit pop.

Oversized jacket 

Pair your baggy pants with an oversized jacket for added warmth! Find a jacket with different textures to change up the vibe of the outfit. If you want to stick to a more classic look, try an oversized puffer or bomber jacket for added style.

Canadian tuxedo

Have a pair of denim cargos? Go all out with denim and wear a denim tom for a bold look! Want to break it up? Add a wool coat for more warmth. 

Play with textures

You don’t have to stick with the basics, fashion is all about breaking rules and wearing what you love! Have a colorful pair of cargo pants? Pair them with a satin top to stand out amongst the crowd. 

Thrift stores KC

Trends from the past are coming back! Find trendy vintage pieces at Thrift World, a thrift store in KC. Shop our Thrift World locations around the Omaha Metro, Council Bluffs, Carroll and Kansas City! Can’t make it to a thrift store near you? Can’t make it in-store? Browse our inventory by shopping online.