How to Wear Cargo Pants in 2020
Not your older brother's cargo pants
By Gabi Meyers | Last Updated: Feb 2 2020
This might be a controversial opinion, but hopefully coming from me, it won’t surprise you too much:
I’m totally pro-guys wearing cargo pants.
Now, you guys may have put that together when I shared 5 ways to wear the modern cargo shorts, and while there was some pushback, nevertheless, I persist.
Because, guys, you would rock ’em so well! Of course, just like with the cargo shorts, these cargo pants are not the cargo pants your mean older brother was wearing in the early 2000’s.
Today’s cargo pants fit slim through the leg. Meaning, you shouldn’t be able to comfortably hold a can of Bud Light in one pocket and..well, another Bud Light in the other.
Cargo pants are a great casual alternative to jeans, chinos, and 5-pocket twill pants. Of course, you could wear the outfits below with any of the above, too, so take this outfit inspiration however you want.
Personally, I really like the nod cargo pants give to the military trend that has been in style for what feels like forever. It makes them just interesting enough without looking “out there.”
Oh, and also, they are the perfect weight for spring weather!
The modern cargo pants are slimmer in cut, with pockets that add visual interest, without the bulk.
Below, five ideas on how to wear cargo pants in a totally modern way:
MONDAY
shirt: J.Crew, $60 | boots (similar): To Boot New York, $238 | watch: Shinola, $925
Wear it well: Dress up your cargo pants for a creative work place with a blazer – roll up the cargo pants AND push your sleeves up to give it a lived in look.
TUESDAY
tee: Everlane, $20 |key tag: Various Projects, $20
Wear it well: A few pops of color make your running errands outfit, complete with denim jacket and bright sneakers, feel more fun.
WEDNESDAY
boots: Oak Street Bootmakers, $462 | fragrance: D.S. Durga, $175
Wear it well: You can wear your cargo pants all the way back to cool weather, by dressing them up with a textured sweater and topcoat. You’re sure to nail that ‘rugged gentleman’ vibe.
THURSDAY
shirt (similar): Faherty, $138| shoes: Gypsy, $166 | watch: Nixon, $80 (on clearance!)
Wear it well: A zippy, fun short-sleeve shirt, with a half zip sweater and derbies take your cargos from work to drinks.
FRIDAY
Breton stripe shirt: Saint James, $99 | Sneakers: Converse, $95
Wear it well: A breton shirt and a suede collared jacket elevate cargos while still keeping things casual.
Shop #SGapproved cargo pants picks
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Want to see more ways to wear your favorite pieces? See five ways to wear lace up boots, a breton shirt and brown derby shoes.
