Cargo pants have been growing in popularity the last few years. And it seems right now it’s all about the new cargo pants. The denim cargo jeans.
There are so many variations of the cargo jean trend to try. From baggy and oversized, to trouser style, and classic straight leg versions. I’m really loving the wide leg or trouser style personally as they add a layer of structure and polish. They also feel a little more dressy than a straight leg version which I think this trend really needs for us to feel more confident wearing it.
With this trend popping up everywhere, here are a few ways to style cargo jeans confidently. And if you’re current jean rotation has been feeling a little stale lately, try cargo jeans to freshen things up.
How To Style Cargo Jeans
Choose A Trouser Style
To start off these tips on how to style cargo jeans, I think it’s important to start with one particular style. The trouser style. A more looser leg that is slim at the hip and then loosens up through the knee. I think this allows for the more 90s trend to feel updated, and more polished. Plus, it makes it easy to dress up or down with a ton of shoe options which we’ll delve into below.
Go For Darker Or Medium Wash, Avoid Major Fading
To keep this 90s comeback style not feeling like you’re still stuck in the 20th century, try a medium or darker wash. I would avoid any major fading unless you’re going for super trendy and funky looks. For the everyday Millennial woman looking to try the cargo jean trend, opt for dark or medium washes that are void of major fading and whiskering.
Dress Them Up With Heels
Easily dress up your cargo jeans with a pair of heels. Whether you do a pointed toe in the fall or winter, or opt for a strappy heel or espadrille in the spring and summer, a heel is a great way to balance this trend out.
Dress Them Down With Sneakers Or Sandals
If you’re more casual, you can also dress down your cargos with a great sneaker. I like a more slim sneaker like an Adidas Gazelle or Samba, or Converse. I would avoid a really chunky sneaker like the Dad sneaker trend with these.
Soften The Utility Vibe With Feminine Pieces
I think a cargo pant can feel very masculine, and utility inspired, so balancing it with something more feminine and dressy like a nice heel is a great way to do just that. And that is typically how I plan to approach my cargo jean looks as a whole too. Balance out the utility vibe with softer feminine pieces.
Add A Third Piece
As with all outfits I recommend creating, adding a third piece truly adds interest, and makes outfits feel more complete. Don’t forget to do that with your cargo pants too! Add a jacket or a sweater over the shoulder to add a little something to your look.
Cargo Jeans Outfit Ideas
Casual In Sneakers And A Tee
Keep things casual yet still put together in a cute tee and sneakers. This french graphic tee is the perfect addition and adds a pop of red to the look. A sweater over the shoulder is a third piece trick you’ll see me add in other looks here as well.
A simple leather sneaker like these Adidas Gazelles or Sambas are the perfect on trend shoe to add. It’s really the sweater and added accessories that make this look feel complete.
For A Spring Event In Strappy Heels And A Blouse
I am always team dressing up denim and so these are no different. The dark wash and wider fit lend them to being dressed up with a heel and pretty pale yellow blouse for spring. This cargo jean outfit is perfect for a fun lunch or a spring date night.
Date Night Outfit In Heels And A Collarless Jacket
Pairing with a low heel and a tank, but adding a third piece in a collarless jacket to make this feel more polished. Should you be able to wear denim to the office, this is a combination I would recommend. Dark wash cargo jeans, low heel, third piece and a simple tee underneath.
I’d wear this out to dinner in the spring or even in the fall with a different, low heel that’s more seasonally appropriate. It’s a combination you can repeat with all your favorite jackets. You can style it with your favorite blazers both oversized and cropped.
And if you’re still thinking of how to style a bomber jacket, I’d pair them with a cargo jean for an edgy look. Lastly, adding a tweed lady jacket is a feminine and preppy touch.
Casual But Put Together For Patio Drinks
For a slightly dressed up summer vibe to grab drinks in, simply try adding a crochet summer top and strappy cage sandal. This is my favorite way to dress up cargo pants. I love these more medium washed cargos from Frame. I paired them with a burgundy sandal and lavender bag to complete the look.
Personally, I love the combination of a high rise wider leg jean with a cropped boxy top. It’s a perfect combination and it feels really cool yet effortless.
Business Casual In A Blazer And Sneakers
Try this business casual combination my friend Camille of Charmed by Camille styled. A slightly relaxed blazer with a crisp tee and white sneaker. A combination that can be trendy enough for dinner, or business casual enough for the office if you can get away with sneakers. If not, just swap for a pointed toe heel or loafer.
So if you’re thinking of diving into this nostalgic 90s trend, these ideas should give you the confidence to rock them. Stick to darker washes and avoid any crazy fading to keep things streamlined. But have fun with jackets and layers to make it your own.
And if you’re ready for even more cargo pant outfit ideas, check out these looks in cargo pants from silky cargos to olive and khaki.
- SHOP
- PIN IT
