How to Wear Cargo Pants: Expert Stylists Tell All

The 2000s fashion trends are reemerging and they are dropping it like it’s hot. From ballet flats, denim skirts, cargo pants, baguette bags, Juicy tracksuits, and more—we are here for them all (well most of them). At Wantable, one of our favorites has to be the cargo pants. But we find many of our customers asking, “how to wear cargo pants?” Never fear, our expert stylists are here to guide you on all things cargo pants: how to rock them and stay stylish and comfortable all year long.

How to Wear Cargo Pants

Dress Them Up

With so many different ways to dress up your casual-style cargo pants, it can be hard to know which pieces to reach for. When rocking your cargo pants, try balancing out the bagginess by pairing them with a fitted top. Tucking in a form-fitting shirt or going for a cute crop top can really help nail that put-together and polished look. Use this simple trick to help enhance your silhouette and give your outfit a more streamlined appearance. For warm days and chilly nights, consider adding a blazer to your ensemble to instantly level up your cargo pant game.

Additionally, consider spicing up your cargo pants with accessories. Adding a stylish belt is guaranteed to elevate any pair of cargo pants and, as a bonus, gives you the perfect defined waistline. Don’t forget the bling—any sparkly jewelry from your collection will add a touch of glamour to an outfit featuring cargo pants. And of course, perfect the finalized look by stepping up your shoe game. Instead of reaching for those everyday sneakers, opt for a pair of sleek booties or sexy heels for a stunning date night look.

The overall takeaway? Don’t dismiss cargo pants as an elevated style choice. With our expert styling tips and clever accessorizing, you can easily transform those casual cargo pants into a super chic and stylish outfit that works for all sorts of occasions!

Or Dress Them Down

Pants that are cute and comfy, but more elevated than leggings? Lizzy McGuire was wrong—this is what dreams are made of.

Cargos are the perfect way to get out of the activewear slump without having to turn to the mobility-impairment of jeans. They are incredibly comfortable and easy to wear, making them a perfect on-trend piece for lounging around or running errands. Effortlessly pair them with all your favorite tops, whether it’s a simple tee or cozy sweater. As a bonus, cargo pants provide plenty of pocket space (unlike most women’s pants—are we right ladies?) which means you won’t need a bulky bag to carry around your everyday essentials.

As professional personal stylists, we love to dress down cargo pants with a casual crop top and sneakers—for a high-fashion streetwear feel. If crops aren’t your thing, don’t fret—a graphic tee front tucked into your cargos looks great too. These classy, yet casual, styles are great for moms on the go or anyone who wants to look put together while going about their day.

Shake Up the Fabric

With the right style of cargo pants, you can instantly upgrade their overall vibe. If you’re wondering how to style cargo pants, fabric choice plays a key role in the general aesthetic of your look.

While traditional cotton cargo pants tend to give off a laid-back mood, try switching it up with a satin or twill pair for a more bougie feel. One of our favorite pro stylist tips is grabbing a pair of silky cargos to immediately dress up any outfit. We especially love this style with a printed blouse and classic blazer for a chic office ensemble. Mixing different fabrics and textures adds a ton of interest to any outfit, helps you stand out, and—in turn—builds confidence! Finish off your look with some leather loafers (hint: this style is perfect to go from desk to drinks).

When learning how to style cargo pants, don’t forget about cut. Look for a slim-style leg to avoid extra bulk and avoid bagginess by opting for pairs with smaller pockets. We love to hit the town in a skinny-leg cargo pant, a cute fitted tank, and a moto jacket for an extra layer of razzle dazzle!

The Best Seasons to Wear Cargo Pants

Spring and Summer

Cargo pants are awesome for staying comfortable and cool in the spring and summer months! The loose, baggy fit allows for plenty of airflow, so you can enjoy a cool breeze on those stuffy days. Pair them with a flowy tank or fitted tee and you have the perfect outfit for running errands, watching a baseball game, or having a couple drinks at a backyard BBQ. Or, add some strappy sandals or slip-ons for a casual-chic look.

Say goodbye to heavy sweating, as the relaxed fit ensures these pants won’t cling to your skin. On warmer days, pair them with a flowy tank or fitted tee, and complete the look with strappy sandals or slip-ons for a casual chic vibe. For cooler mornings or evenings, add a hoodie for the perfect layer. Want to channel the early 2000s? Try low-rise cargo pants with a spaghetti strap tank. For an edgier look, opt for sneakers and a hoodie. Alternatively, an oversized button-down, fitted top, and ball cap create a balanced silhouette by contrasting a fitted top with baggy bottoms. Remember to choose a lightweight fabric—anything with a cotton or linen blend is ideal for warm weather cargo pants!

Fall

As the leaves change to beautiful hues and the air becomes crisp, cargo pants remain a wardrobe staple even as you start reaching for sweaters. Opt for a pair made from thicker materials like denim or twill to stay cozy on those cool days. Cargo pants look adorable paired with a cozy sweater—choose an oversized style to add dimension to your outfit—and booties. For added warmth, layer with a shacket or puffer coat as the temperature drops. Transitioning from summer to fall? Style them with sneakers, a graphic tee, and a denim jacket. You can also elevate the look with colorful heels and a turtleneck sweater—don’t forget to add a vest for a chic finishing touch!

Our Favorite Colored Cargos

Now that you’ve got the styles down and your confidence up—fantastic! But which color cargo pants should you choose? The simple answer: wear the colors that resonate with you. We’ve selected versatile neutrals that effortlessly complement anything in your wardrobe. Plus, we’ve curated some outfit ideas to help you style these cargo pant colors, so you’ll be ready to rock them in no time!

Khaki Cargo Pants: Classic, Preppy, and Versatile

When it comes to khaki, think classic, preppy, and utility vibes. Available in various shades—from off-white to tan—khaki offers plenty of styling options. For a bold look, pair khaki cargo pants with a bright-colored top to create a striking contrast. Add a heel and some sparkle with your favorite accent jewelry for a night out. If you’re aiming for a preppy vibe, opt for a striped tee and boat shoes. For a timeless look, try a black tank with a sweater draped over your shoulders. No matter how you style them, khaki cargo pants will always have you saying, “it’s giving.”

Black Cargo Pants: Embrace the Edgy Rock Vibe

Black cargo pants bring an edgy, rock-inspired vibe to your wardrobe. Pair them with combat boots and a leather jacket—or even a sleek blazer—and layer a camo tee underneath for a standout look. One of the perks of choosing black cargo pants is that dressier styles are often available in this color. Opt for a tapered leg or a silkier fabric for a more sophisticated take. Complete the look with heels or mules and add a cardigan or your favorite statement jacket for a polished finish.

Green Cargo Pants: A Timeless Classic

Green cargo pants are undeniably a classic (and if you know, you know with camo), but they’re also just plain fun to wear! For a casual look, pair them with a neutral tee and white sneakers—perfect for a laid-back outfit that works anywhere. Add a denim jacket and your favorite crossbody to complete the ensemble. If you’re considering them for a date night, try tucking in a lacy cami or a top with feminine ruffles. Finish the look with strappy sandals or kitten heels for that extra touch of pizazz.

Bold & Bright Cargo Pants: Make a Statement

Step out and stand out in a pair of brightly colored or printed cargo pants! This is your chance to infuse your style with a burst of personality. For a balanced look, tone them down with a neutral-colored top—perfect for a girls’ day out. Pair with your favorite sandals and a utility jacket, and you’re all set for brunch. Feeling adventurous? Embrace the theme and go bold on top as well—ideal for a fun concert or festival outfit.

Styling Caro Pants FAQ:

Meet Your New Go-To Bottoms

When it comes to how to wear cargo pants, your choices should be guided by the season and the occasion. With these insights from Wantable’s team of professional stylist, you can maximize the potential of your new favorite pants. Whether you’re dressing them up or down, the key is to choose outfits that make you feel great. Remember, there are countless ways to style cargo pants, but as long as you feel confident, you’ll be slaying your look all day (or night)!

Want us to take the guesswork out of cargo pants? Take your style quiz and order your Edit today!